BACKGROUND: Uniform and headgear regulations for Nazi political leaders were addressed as early as 1920, with the standard headgear at that time being a Kepi-style cap. The political uniform and headgear regulations subsequently underwent numerous modifications, and in January of 1934 a visor cap, based on the army style, was introduced for wear. This 1934 visor cap also underwent modifications until a final pattern was introduced in July of 1939. The NSDAP was structured in four ascending levels of government, consisting of the "Ortsgruppe," the "Kreisleitung," the "Gauleitung," and the "Reichsleitung," with each group being distinguished by a specific color of piping on the collar tabs and visor cap.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Cap is constructed of ribbed, light tan cotton/rayon blend material with a light brown velvet centerband. Cap has black wool piping to crown edge and top and bottom of centerband indicating the political Kreisleitung level. Fixed over the forward seam line of the body is a slightly convex, 1937 pattern (facing to its left - the new style eagles introduced in 1936 faced their right wing), silver-washed (all political eagles had a silver finish prior to April of 1939), stamped alloy eagle. Beneath the eagle, affixed to the front of the center band, is a 1935 pattern cockade. Nice complete, chincord, liner, sweat diamond and leather sweatband. Original RZM tag is present. Size marked 59. Shows the expected period use and wear but overall nice condition.