Authentic World War II Union Defence Forces (UDF) Service Cap (1945)
A beautifully preserved, field-used khaki twill visor cap manufactured in Johannesburg at the close of World War II. This piece showcases a fascinating array of official wartime stamps and field-wear modifications that make it an excellent addition to any South African militaria collection.
Key Features & Historical Identity:
Manufacturer: Dugson Clothing, Johannesburg. The classic fabric shield logo remains intact on the inner lining.
Date of Production: 1945. Clear, crisp ink stamp on the leather sweatband verifies its late-war issue.
Size: 6 ¾ (Stamped both on the interior fabric lining and the leather sweatband).
UDF Property Stamp: Features the highly sought-after official Union Defence Forces "Broad Arrow inside a U" acceptance mark stamped directly into the leather grain.Inspection Mark: Includes a circular official inspection stamp under a King's (Tudor) Crown, displaying inspector code "A 19".
Buttons: A fascinating detail for collectorsthe cap features standard UDF General Service Coat of Arms buttons securing the chin strap.
Inscribed Name: There is an old handwritten ink inscription on the leather sweatband. It appears to possibly read "Koch" or a similar period surname, though it has faded with time and is not fully legible.
Condition Report: The cap is in good, untouched vintage condition with a natural field patina. The khaki twill fabric shows some expected light storage dust and minor staining but remains structurally sound. The leather sweatband is still intact and flexible enough to cleanly read the markings. The front cap badge is missing, leaving the original prong holes visible on the front band where a General Service or SAR badge once sat.
Please review all high-resolution photos carefully to assess the condition and markings for yourself.
