A Collector's Guide to the Foundations of the DAK
The Deutsches Afrikakorps (DAK) remains one of the most visually iconic military forces of WWII. Deployed to North Africa under General Erwin Rommel in 1941, the DAK wore a range of specially designed tropical uniforms and equipment — much of which has become highly sought after by collectors and historians today.
In this post, we explore the earliest stage of Afrikakorps uniform development — from 1940 to early 1941 — covering materials, design, and issue context. Whether you're a new collector or a seasoned specialist, understanding this period is essential for authentication and historical appreciation.
The Context: Germany in North Africa
The German Afrika Korps was formed in early 1941 to support Italian forces in Libya. However, tropical uniform production began as early as mid-1940, before DAK troops ever set foot on African soil. Much of this gear was initially issued in Italy or Germany for staging prior to deployment.
These early items are especially valuable today due to their low production numbers, short field use, and unique construction details.
Key Early Uniform Elements (1940–1941)
1. Tropical Tunics (Feldbluse)
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Material: Lightweight olive or tan cotton twill
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Design Features: Pleated breast pockets, open-neck collar, removable shoulder boards
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Notable Detail: Some early tunics were recycled from prewar colonial patterns, making them distinguishable by rare cuts or fittings.
2. DAK Shorts and Trousers
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Shorts: Early types featured button flies and belt loops, with internal ink depot stamps
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Long Trousers: Tapered cotton trousers with suspender buttons and reinforced knees
Collectors should examine stitching consistency, fabric fade patterns, and factory codes when authenticating these items.
Headgear: The Iconic Tropical Cap
The DAK tropical field cap (Einheitsfeldmütze) was introduced alongside the first wave of uniforms and came in various configurations:
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M40 caps: Early versions had a stiff peak and hand-sewn insignia
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Italian-made variants: Issued during staging in Libya or Southern Italy, often with different liner materials or ventilation styles
Look for variations in insignia thread colour, factory markings, and sweatband materials.
Footwear & Boots
The DAK tropical low boot with canvas upper and leather sole became standard, but in 1940, many troops were still issued:
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Standard black ankle boots (dyed or sanded)
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Italian or captured footwear adapted for desert use
Original soles and stitching are critical indicators of authenticity in early war examples.
Insignia & Personal Effects
Early DAK insignia was often locally made or hand-stitched, especially in field workshops. Items to look for:
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Bevo-woven tropical breast eagles
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Early bullion officer cockades
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The famous "Afrika" cuff title (officially introduced in 1943 but seen earlier in various forms)
Period photographs show wide variance, so context is everything — especially when considering original vs. reproduction insignia.
Identifying Originals vs. Reproductions
Reproductions are rife in the DAK market. Key red flags include:
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Uniforms made from modern ripstop or overly coarse fabric
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Inconsistent depot stamps or obviously aged ink
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Incorrect thread types or sloppy insignia placement
For Serious Collectors: A Visual Reference You Can Trust
While this guide covers the basics, a far deeper dive into original early DAK items — including ultra-rare tunics, caps, and insignia — is presented in
📘 Afrikakorps Volume 1: 1940–1941 by David Bunch & Daniel Fisher.
This limited-edition hardcover is filled with high-resolution, close-up images and insider tips on authentication. It’s an essential desk companion for any collector focused on early tropical-issue German militaria.