*German, WWII, Kriegsmarine Ratings Overseas Side Cap (Schiffchen), Size 53*
An original World War II Kriegsmarine ratings overseas cap (Schiffchen), constructed in dark navy-blue wool with a black cotton lining. The front bears the golden machine-woven BeVo naval eagle looking to its left shoulder, positioned above the red-white-black national cockade — both original to the cap and applied in the regulation wartime manner (hand-stitched eagle and machine-stitched cockade). Inside, the lining is stamped “53”, indicating the head size in centimetres — a notably small size, typical of younger ratings or cadets. The cap retains a strong period character and still carries a faint diesel or engine-room odour, an evocative reminder of its service life at sea. The materials, stitching, and insignia style are consistent with mid-war production (circa 1941–44).
Historical Note: This type of Schiffchen was the standard service cap for all Kriegsmarine enlisted men, worn both aboard ship and for duties ashore. The dark blue colour distinguished naval personnel from their Luftwaffe and Heer counterparts, while the BeVo woven eagle and cockade were adopted in the late 1930s and remained in use throughout the war. The gold naval eagle identified service in the Kriegsmarine, and the tricolour cockade denoted national affiliation. Such caps were a familiar sight across the German surface fleet, U-boats, and coastal defence units until 1945.
*Condition* In very good original condition with intact stitching and well-preserved insignia. Light service wear and minor moth grazing to the wool consistent with age. The lining remains clean and clearly marked with size “53”. No signs of restoration or replaced insignia. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
