*East German (DDR), Cold War, NVA / Volkspolizei Winter Service Fur Cap, Ushanka Type, Grey-Green Cloth, Size 56*
A very attractive and original Cold War-era East German DDR winter service fur cap of practical issue pattern, produced in the characteristic grey-green “stone grey” field cloth with a full grey synthetic fur wraparound band and fold-down ear sections. This lower-profile winter cap differs from the standard tall Soviet-style ushanka, being of the flatter service-cap form associated with NVA specialist branches, Luftstreitkräfte / Luftverteidigung (LSK/LV – Air Force / Air Defence), Volkspolizei, and other state service uniforms during the 1970s–1980s.
The cap features a continuous ear-to-ear fur section rather than the usual separate long ear flaps, secured by four brass-coloured press studs marked “LOSO” (or similar), allowing the front and side sections to be worn folded up or down depending on weather conditions. This simpler and more practical arrangement is often seen on officer, technical, aviation, and police winter issue headwear where a lower profile and ease of wear were preferred over the bulkier infantry ushanka pattern.
The subdued grey-green cloth body is highly characteristic of DDR uniform issue, while the plain utilitarian construction and lack of parade fittings suggest regular winter duty use rather than formal dress wear. The interior retains its original lining with size tab marked “56,” corresponding to a medium adult size.
Approx. Measurements – Size: 56.
A distinctive and displayable original East German winter service cap with strong Cold War DDR character.
History Note:
Throughout the Cold War, the German Democratic Republic (DDR) equipped not only frontline soldiers but also police, air force personnel, transport units, and technical branches with specialised winter headwear suited to harsh Central European winters. While the classic tall ushanka is most associated with Soviet and Warsaw Pact forces, East German service branches often used flatter, lower-profile fur caps that were easier to wear in vehicles, aircraft, and day-to-day duty settings. These practical winter caps became a recognisable part of NVA and Volkspolizei service dress from the 1960s through the late 1980s.
Variants, like this, are considerably less commonly encountered than the standard infantry ushanka and are increasingly sought after by collectors of DDR militaria and Cold War uniform items.
*Condition*
Good original vintage condition with light service wear consistent with age and use. Minor wear and age-related handling marks to the cloth and faux fur, with light storage wear present. Press studs remain in place and functional. Interior size tab present and marked “56.” A solid and attractive original example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ
