This kepi is for a Standartenfuhrer of Gruppe Sudwest. It is interesting that such a high ranking officer has retained such a well worn hat. This is the soft style kepi often referred to as a "lagermutze." The yellow orange Gruppe color has been overlaid on the original red top, which indicates Gruppe Staff. The chin strap has had one half of the leather replace while the left side still shows the stretched and well worn leather. Although well applied, the Standartenfuhrer tresse is also a later period addition. The inside lining and sweatband are well worn and sweatstained. This was a very early private purchase kepi which has since lost half of it's moisture shield and all of the lettering from the shop it was retained from. There is no indication of this hat ever having a RZM label
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