Description
The Zeltbahn 31 was introduced in the early 1930s and became one of the most recognizable pieces of German field equipment during the war. The distinctive splinter camouflage pattern with vertical “rain streak” lines was specifically designed to break up the soldier’s silhouette in wooded environments and became the foundation for many later German camouflage designs. These triangular shelter halves were issued to German soldiers and could be worn as a camouflage poncho, used individually as a field shelter, or buttoned together with other Zeltbahns to form larger tents and shelters in the field.
Made of water-proofed cotton/rayon, this reversible Zeltbahn is in EXCELLENT unused condition! It features the standard splinter pattern camouflage, that consists of shades of tans, green, and brown. With bright colors throughout, all original steel buttons are present as well as all button holes. The original steel grommets are also present, with the cords still attached. No tears, fraying or fading, but there are a couple tiny holes and pulls from storage. No manufacture markings that I can see…HOWEVER…for an unknown reason, someone in the past has added fake ink stamps on the bottom edge. Presumably, as the original manufacture markings have faded, the prior owner felt it would increase the value or add more visual appeal. This could be removed with alcohol, if one wished. Would make a SUPERB addition to any collection or display!
