Polizei winter pelzmütze / fur cap

A German WWII winter fur cap, commonly called a Pelzmütze or Winterfellmütze, was a specialized piece of headgear issued to troops to survive extreme cold. While no single official standard existed, most models followed the design of the M43 field cap or the Bergmütze (mountain cap), featuring a wool body with fold-down ear and neck panels. The outer shell was typically field-grey wool (Feldgrau), while the lining was made of cotton, rayon, or quilted material for insulation. Common furs included rabbit, hare, or goatskin. As the war progressed and high-quality fur became scarce, artificial "fish fur" (wool pile on a cloth substrate) was increasingly used. It featured large ear flaps that could be secured above the head with a button and loop or tied under the chin during extreme weather. Soldiers often hand-sewed or pinned branch-specific insignia to the front, such as the Wehrmacht eagle or national cockade. Following the devastating experiences of the 1941/42 winter on the Eastern Front, the German High Command (OKW) prioritized the development of better winter gear. Soviet Influence: Many German fur caps were directly inspired by or even copied from the Soviet Ushanka, which was highly valued by German soldiers as captured "trophy" gear.

This item:
A Polizei winter fur cap in mint condition. This is a beautiful fur cap executed in the typical Polizei green. The price may seem a bit on the high side, but it is well worth it because the cap was fitted at the factory with the Polizei insignia, which is made of light metal and still retains all its factory-applied silver finish. The insignia is attached behind the lining and was therefore not applied in the field or after the war; it sits beautifully recessed into the cap itself. All the rabbit fur is still present and does not shed. The interior is in very nice condition and is neatly marked with an RbNr. and dated 1944. The head size is 58, which is a good size for use on a mannequin, for example. The fastening straps are also still attached in their original condition. This is a Polizei cap that is impossible to find in better condition.