We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. You can Modify or Reject the use of the cookies. See our cookie policy.
Side cap of the Werkscharen of the Deutsche Arbeitsfront (DAF), or German Labour Front, a National Socialist organization established in May 1933 following the dissolution of Germany’s independent trade unions and associated with the NSDAP.
The Werkscharen, commonly described as industrial brigades or formations, were uniformed groups within the DAF organized from the mid-1930s onwards. Their role was to promote labour discipline, disseminate National Socialist ideology and carry out political surveillance and control within factories and industrial workplaces. These formations helped reinforce the regime’s authority over workers and prevent political opposition and organized resistance in the industrial sector.
The cap is manufactured from fine dark navy-blue wool. The front features a machine-embroidered national eagle on a black background, accompanied by two metal buttons.
The interior has a grey cotton lining and a leather sweatband bearing the inscription “Deutsche Qualität” (“German Quality”).
An original RZM-DAF identification label is sewn into the inside crown, bearing the designation “Mütze für Werkscharen der DAF”, explicitly identifying the cap as a type intended for the German Labour Front’s Werkscharen.
The label also includes the following inscriptions and markings:
“Reichszeugmeisterei der NSDAP”: the organization responsible for regulating and controlling the manufacture and distribution of uniforms, insignia and equipment for National Socialist organizations.“Hersteller 37”: the manufacturer’s identification number within the RZM system.“A 191757”: the control number printed on the label.“Gesetz vom 20.12.1934”: a reference to German legislation protecting the symbols, uniforms and insignia of National Socialist organizations.
The presence of this label identifies the regulation cap pattern intended for the DAF Werkscharen and documents its manufacture under the RZM control system.
Deutsche Arbeitsfront (DAF) Werkscharen side cap, manufactured from dark navy-blue wool, with machine-embroidered eagle, two metal buttons, grey cotton lining and leather sweatband marked “Deutsche Qualität”. Original RZM-DAF label bearing control number A 191757 and manufacturer number 37. Germany, Third Reich.
