Kepis and other headgear

A battered veteran!

This Model 1878 sun hat screams colonial character whether the beating sun of the Sahara or IndoChina.

In fragile, relic condition it evokes the era of French colonialism.

While this model was worn by the Legion the bomb insignia appears to be that of the French gendarmerie.

A neat addition to any collector of French headgear despite its condition. $75

Distinctive and classic NCO kepi of the inter-war period.

This kepi definately saw service, undoubtedly to a veteran legionairre. As the grenade to front is 30 mm this indicates post-1932.
Admittedly a bit battered but full of character that displays well and would be a great addition to any Legion collection.
Chinstrap to right-side button is broken at end but does not detract from display.
$475 ON HOLD

Classic French army bush hat, the Chapeau de Brousse

Made famous by the Legion from Indochina to the jungles of South America and Africa. A lovely used but not abused example that could do with a good washing (I’ll leave that to the next owner) which shows lots of character. The name Wolff obviously a more-modern addition but does not distract from overall appearance. Of note this example does not have Israeli Defense Forces (Zahal) markings as so many do. Tons of these hats went to the Israelis and many, if not most carry the IDF marking. $75 SOLD

Legion calot, or overseas cap, made in Saigon.

This model came in during WWII and into the post-war Indochina period. I understand, though, it was not a popular piece of headgear. Reference Men-At-Arms series no. 300 “French Foreign Legion Since 1945,” plates A2 and C1. Of note the green/red color scheme of the Legion and the beautiful Saigon tailor label. A seldom encountered and neat addition to any Legion collection. $60 SOLD

Foreign Legion beret insignia All insignia on this page are $15 each unless otherwise marked

What’s Top row: First insignia by Courtois; others by Drago: 1 REI (SOLD), 4 REI, 5 REI (SOLD) and 13 DBLE (SOLD).

Middle row all by J. Balme: unassigned legionnaire, 1 REC,           6 REG (SOLD)

Bottom row left by Drago, attachment adapted to 2 screw backs (SOLD); right by J. Balme

  

Top left by Coinderoux Paris. Infantry. (SOLD)

Top right by Beraudy for Infantry

Bottom left by Drago rue de Romainville Paris G1772 Insignes Militaires. $25. Silver color for cavalry.

Bottom right by Coinderoux Paris. Silver color for cavalry. SOLD

SZ 391B: 2 REI beret insignia, locally made in Tchad, 1979-1980. Beautiful heavy insignia, rare. $120

Another locally made beret badge from Tchad. Lovelly distinctive Legion beret badge. As with the 2 REI badge material is silver colored. $80 SOLD