Imperial German Navy NCO Visor Cap – See Battalion
Imperial German Navy NCO Visor Cap – See Battalion
SKU: 33-471
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Historical Analysis:
This NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer) visor cap is an authentic piece from the Imperial German Navy's See Battalions. These naval infantry units served both on land and at sea, playing a critical role in coastal defense, naval base security, and amphibious operations. The See Battalions were often stationed at key strategic points, including the German colonies, where they protected German interests and served as a rapid reaction force.
Item Description:
This NCO Visor Cap is a well-preserved example of Imperial German Navy headgear, specifically designed for non-commissioned officers serving in the See Battalions. The cap is made of navy blue wool with a white felt band and white piping. It retains its original leather chinstrap, affixed by brass buttons bearing the iconic anchor and crown insignia of the German Navy.
- Condition: The cap is in excellent condition for its age, showing light wear but no significant damage. The leather chinstrap remains supple, and the interior is in good condition with only minor signs of wear on the liner.
- Unique Features: The brass buttons on the chinstrap feature an embossed crown and anchor design, typical of naval headgear from this period. The wool and felt construction has retained its color, and the cap displays the classic naval style with a slight peak and sturdy construction.
- Significance: This cap represents a rare example of naval infantry headgear from the Imperial German Navy's See Battalions, units that saw action in numerous campaigns during both World War I and Germany's colonial efforts.
Date Range:
This visor cap likely dates from 1900 to 1918, a period when the See Battalions were active and played a significant role in Germany’s global military operations.
Display Suggestions:
This NCO visor cap is an excellent display piece for any collection of Imperial German Navy or World War I memorabilia. It would look particularly striking in a glass case or on a mannequin alongside other naval or military uniforms. The condition of the cap, along with the brass buttons and leather chinstrap, makes it a standout item that would complement any collection focused on naval or colonial military history.
For more historical insight into the German Navy's See Battalions, you can visit this WWI German Navy history resource, which details the role of these units in the broader context of German naval operations.
Military Games and Movies:
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Games:
- Hearts of Iron IV – A grand strategy game that allows players to manage military units, including naval and infantry forces, providing an immersive experience of commanding See Battalion-like forces. Learn more about the game.
- Battlefield 1 – Set in World War I, this game includes naval combat and infantry battles that reflect the diverse roles played by units like the See Battalions. Discover Battlefield 1.
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Movies:
- The African Queen (1951) – This classic movie portrays naval missions and colonial expeditions, similar to those in which the See Battalions participated. Watch The African Queen on IMDb.
- A Very Long Engagement (2004) – This film gives a broader context of WWI, showing how various military units were deployed in different theaters, including coastal and naval operations. View the film on IMDb.
Ancestry Resources:
For collectors or enthusiasts interested in tracing ancestry related to German naval forces, websites such as Ancestry.com or Fold3.com offer access to military records that may provide details on ancestors who served in the German Navy's See Battalions.
This cap is a valuable addition for collectors of naval militaria, particularly those with an interest in the Imperial German Navy and its elite naval infantry forces. Its condition and historical significance make it a premium item for display or study.






