German WWII Waffen-SS Infantry Officer's Crusher Cap

This is an ultra-rare German WWII Waffen-SS Infantry Officer's Crusher Cap, a highly sought-after piece for collectors of military headgear. The cap is approximately size 58 or 59 and is made from ribbed wool material, showing some signs of age, including a small moth nip to the crown and a damaged section near the SS eagle on the right side. The damage appears to have been caused either by moths or tearing, but these imperfections do not detract from the overall value of the cap.

The Waffenfarbe, or piping, on the cap is an unusual pattern with a rope-like weave, a feature observed on other visor caps of the time. It also retains the standard black velvet officer’s center band, and a set of officer's cap cords is fitted as well. The SS eagle on the front is a 475/43 example, while the skull is a 499/41 version. The cap features a semi-crushable fiberboard front peak, typical of the crusher style, adding to its unique appearance.

Inside, the cap has a grey leather sweatband that shows some mild rodent bites, and the interior lining is made of grey rayon with an unusual motif either hand-applied or printed to the upper inner crown. Additionally, there is an ink stamping of ‘Paul Kass,’ likely the retailer or manufacturer, along with faint traces of a penciled name that could have belonged to the previous owner.

This Crusher Cap is a rare and remarkable piece of WWII history, representing the elite nature of the Waffen-SS officer corps. Despite its age and minor wear, the cap remains in remarkable condition, making it an exceptional addition to any collection of WWII militaria.