Heer Tropenhelm by R&C : original?

[ObKrieger]

Hi guys,

I came across this pith helmet today in an antique shop right next to my college. The seller wants $50 for it! I think it looks O.K., but I have never heard of this maker, and the price has alarm bells ringing. I have the thing on a 24 hour hold, so if the cloth headgear experts of the forum approve, then it shall be mine. Could I please get your opinions, gentlemen?

I apologize for the poor photos. I only had my phone with me. If you click on them they should blow up.

Mo

[Jerry B]

Looks absolutely fine and original and a fair price for its condition. There were lots of makers of these, more than 40 tropenhelm makers are known to exist. Possibly made by Reller & co or Rockel & co. It might have another inkstamp under the sweatband and Reller & co seems more likely, though it might be an unknown maker.

[ObKrieger]

Many thanks Jerry! I knew you would have an answer for me.

[António Fragoeiro]

Looks absolutely fine and original and a fair price for its condition. There were lots of makers of these, more than 40 tropenhelm makers are known to exist. Possibly made by Reller & co or Rockel & co. It might have another inkstamp under the sweatband and Reller & co seems more likely, though it might be an unknown maker.

Jerry is right on these, as always.
It is an original one, with a smashing price.
Get it
Cheers
Nuno

[ObKrieger]

I went and bought it today! I managed to get the helmet and a 1933 U.S. mounted canteen set for 80 bucks flat. I can't believe how cheap this guy is selling his German stuff. I am still wary...

The tropenhelm is a size 59 from 1942. I am very pleased with it!

[maximus71]

That pith looks great, and for 50 bucks! WOW, I just got one for quadruple that price! The hat looks fine, green instead of khaki, check out the shields up close, there is a post somewhere on here about fake or real shields, the real ones should look pebbled on the front and reverse pebbled on the back, slap some dust goggles on it for a really cool look, check it out...

[ObKrieger]

The goggles are step two! Does anyone know of a decent cheap pair for sale?

[Jerry B]

Looks fine Mo and the tri colour shield is correct and I'm sure the eagle shield will be fine as well, I just can't see the detail from your pics. A one looker original Heer felt 2nd pattern TROPENHELM for a good price.

[ObKrieger]

Thank you all for your comments.

I keep staring at it... not sure why. It might be that it's the only piece of German militaria I have in my apartment.

[maximus71]

I sent you a pm for a link for goggles, hope it helps!