MINT Luftwaffe Overseas Cap 'Schiffchen' by Pranke & Domgala Berlin 'LBA' 1939

A superb and early war Luftwaffe overseas cap, commonly referred to in German as a 'Schiffchen'. This beautiful example is maker marked by Pranke & Domgala in Berlin and clearly dated 1939, making it a desirable early war piece rather than a later wartime depot example. The cap is constructed from high quality blue-grey Luftwaffe wool which remains in outstanding condition. The wool is still very full and shows no moth damage, repairs or thinning, something rarely encountered on caps of this age. Overall the cap appears virtually unworn and shows only minimal signs of storage over the decades.The front of the cap retains its original period applied insignia, consisting of the national cockade in black, white and red and the Luftwaffe eagle above it. Both insignia are hand sewn to the cap and show nice detail and correct period construction. The cap maintains its excellent overall shape and the exterior wool retains a very pleasing appearance, making this a particularly attractive example for display or collection.The interior features the typical grey cotton lining and retains a beautiful factory stamp from the manufacturer Pranke & Domgala, located in Berlin SW68 at Stallschreiberstraße 48. The stamp is clearly dated 1939 and the cap is sized 57. Beneath the maker stamp the cap also bears a clear Luftwaffe acceptance marking 'L.B.A.B. 39', indicating Luftwaffe Bekleidungsamt Berlin 1939. These acceptance stamps are often encountered on early Luftwaffe clothing and equipment and further confirm the originality of the piece. A truly beautiful and textbook early Luftwaffe Schiffchen in near mint condition, which is becoming increasingly difficult to find today.