December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 184:
Description
This lot features a scarce example of an Imperial Japanese Army IJA Cold Weather Winter Fur Cap, commonly referred to as a Dog Fur Cap or Pilots Cap due to its distinctive construction and frequent use by air and cavalry units, although it was issued to all troops operating in cold climates like Manchuria or the Kuril Islands.
The cap is constructed from a heavy brown wool body and features a wide brim and ear flaps lined with authentic animal fur, which appears to be rabbit or possibly muskrat, showing the characteristic long, brown/tan fibers. The cap retains its original cloth tie straps and wood or composition buttons used to secure the ear flaps either under the chin or over the dome. The overall condition shows genuine, expected wear and fading to the wool and fur consistent with an issued WWII artifact.
A key feature is the prominent yellow five-pointed star insignia period-applied to the front crown, which is hand-stitched onto a circular wool backing. This star is the symbol of the Imperial Japanese Army and confirms the cap s military issue. The interior is likely lined with quilted fabric for warmth, typical of IJA winter gear, though the lining is not fully visible. The cap represents a compelling piece of Japanese military history from the Pacific and Asian theaters of World War II.
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