Original German WWII Luftwaffe EM-NCO Wool M38 Overseas Cap in size 57 1/2 - Schiffchen

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a lovely service used example of a German WWII Luftwaffe M38 Overseas cap (Schiffchen), as worn by Enlisted men and NCOs (EM-NCO). It definitely has a "been there" look that is impossible to duplicate. The overseas cap, nicknamed in German military slang as "Schiffchen", or literally "little ship" as it resembled an up-turned row-boat, was standard issue for the Luftwaffe for most occasions.

The cap is constructed of the correct Luftwaffe Fliegerblau (Flyer's Blue) blue gray wool exterior, and features a fine embroidered eagle and tri-color cockade sewn to the front. These are only stitched to the outer layer of fabric, which means they were sewn on during production. It features blue gray canvas lining, which shows staining around the lower the interior from use and age. At first we thought it was totally unmarked, but looking at the inner left lining at the right angle showed a maker name over a large size 57 1/2 marking.

Overall condition is very good, though the original fuzzy "nap" of the fabric on the exterior is mostly worn away, only really preserved now under the flaps and inside the top crease, where the original color is also better preserved. A lovely service used cap that was "really there", ready to add to your collection!

Side Cap
A side cap is a military cap that can be folded flat when not being worn. It is also known as a garrison cap or flight cap in the United States, wedge cap in Canada, or field service cap in the United Kingdom. In form the side cap is comparable to the glengarry, a folding version of the Scottish military bonnet. It has been associated with various military forces since the middle of the 19th century, as well as various civilian organizations.