My last M43 Cap angst- this could prove interesting!

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Here is my last EM production M43 in my collection. However it doesn't look like a normal M43 or any other Heer field cap I've ever seen. No real story-picked it up in a small militaria show in Germany about 12 years ago-I think Betts Kaserne.

The material is much like my M43 Cap #1. Doesn't show much wear. Very simplified construction. Its hard to see the grey thread even when you have it in your hand. Theres no stitching under the visor at all.No bias material. The closest in general style I can find to this cap are the LW single button caps.

I doubt its a repro.Repros usually try to copy standard examples. A fantasy piece-why? The M43s didn't cost a lot of money back then. Civilian hat that was spiced up-could be. I'll post the pictures and await your comments. jim

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6 This is strange.the loop is vertical not horizontal. Its also a lot narrower then the normal ones. Its like it was put on without knowing why.

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8 heres the liner.The top looks like LW wool and the sides artificial silk-maybe Italian.

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9 the RBN number. Markings don't look normal for a heer cap.

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But bill Shea has a nice LW cap with similar markings.Heres a comparison.

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11 inside of the grommet.Lots of rust. The green paint on the outside grommets was done by me.

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15 The green paint was applied by me.