My wool DDR winter M-43 hat

[redjames2004]

I decided to take pictures of my 1963-dated DDR winter M-43 cap. It was made of entirely wool. The M-43 cap had a Third Reich-style thick DDR wreath with early DDR state emblem. This hat's size fits my head perfectly. I wore it on few occasions but never wore at all. It was stored in bag for long time. I put old newspapers to keep inside the cap to keep in shape. Here are some pictures of my M-43 cap

[redjames2004]

Thick aluminum DDR wreath emblem's side. It reminds me of Third Reich wreath cap devices.

[redjames2004]

Close up picture of early DDR wreath and state emblem on the M-43 cap

[redjames2004]

Inside this wool M-43 cap. It have imiation sweatband and have purple NVA stamp inside this cap.

[redjames2004]

Close up picture of purple NVA and date and size stamp

[redjames2004]

Right side view of M-43 cap with flaps buttoned up

[redjames2004]

M-43 cap's left side flap

[redjames2004]

The M-43 cap's left flap in open position. The left flap have two little buttons on its side.

[redjames2004]

Final photo of my 1963 DDR M-43 cap with its right flap in extended postion. Enjoy looking at pictures! I will plan to post my early M-43 cap with early DDR bullseye emblem later. Thanks! James

[Rev462]

James,

I notice that this hat has the early, 5 mm thick wreath. Nice touch!

I love these M43's - I think at present they are way undervalued.

[David H]

Rick,
I totally agree they are undervalued at present. These have got to be one of my favourite forms of DDR headgear... Why the NVA changed to the god awful russian style winter hat is beyond me!!!!!