Why are there no studies of pith helmet badges

[Jean-Loup]

When it cmes to wound badges, helmet lot numbers, etc, it seems that everything has been studies in extreme detail and classified according to maker, production date, etc.
When it comes to pith helmet badges, there seems to be nothing of that sort though, and they seem to arouse very little interest.
What is the reason for this? Doesnt someone who owns numerous of these want to take detailed photos of them and establish some sort of classification?

JL

[Jeff V]

A good question Jean Loup. Perhaps there would be more answers amongst those who study awards.

[Den]

There are indeed many makers of these pith helmet badges with each its characteristics. I have a lot of pictures in my files on the computer, sorted by different makers.

You can also ask the same question about the pith helmets itself. Allmost all factories that produced hats, made pith helmets. I studied and collected them for a time and saw many diffferences between them. I always found (and still find) it interested to study them.

The problem is indeed that there is not much interest in these piths and their shields. Therefor not many people try to study them or try to put time into it. (Which is not so bad since the price stays low for these).

[Jean-Loup]

With the Afrika Korps being one of the most popular collecting fields, it is strange the pith helmets and their badges seem so underrated. My guess is that so many of those found on the market are unissued that many collectors dont feel any "spirit" in them.

JL

[Andy C.]

I agree, love the 1st. Pattern Army examples, KM sun helmets all makers, and the Luftwaffe SH. But yes I truly believe that the more worn helmets are the more desirable ones.

[Tim O'Keefe]

There are indeed many makers of these pith helmet badges with each its characteristics. I have a lot of pictures in my files on the computer, sorted by different makers.

You can also ask the same question about the pith helmets itself. Allmost all factories that produced hats, made pith helmets. I studied and collected them for a time and saw many diffferences between them. I always found (and still find) it interested to study them.

The problem is indeed that there is not much interest in these piths and their shields. Therefor not many people try to study them or try to put time into it. (Which is not so bad since the price stays low for these).

Agree+1

The common tropenhelms are not popular with many DAK collectors that prefer the rare & desirable M40 cap. The fact that there are thousands of unissued 2nd pattern war surplus helmets still aroud does not help as DAK collectors have even less interest in those which were produced too late to see Afrika in any number if at all ? The early faded 1st pattern Afrikan veterans should be a sought after by collectors but are not. Which is great for us that appreciate them. They are the only DAK headgear that is still affordable these days. Not including all those mint sidecaps from the beehive cache which have nothing to do with the DAK.

Another point is here on the WAF there is confusion as to post your tropenhelm for discussion. Many times they are posted in the Stahlhelm Forum. Also in the Cloth Headgear Forum which is where they belong. Why would they be posted in the Badge Forum, they are not an award ?

[RonR]

From the 60's......


.........

[OSS]

Yes, I remember these cards (with both shields) appearing in unlikely places, like convenience stores. I think the fact that so many original shields survived may contribute to the lack of enthusiasm.