This is an Italian beret of the Repubblica Sociale Italiana (RSI) Black Brigades during the latter years of World War II (1939-1945). The RSI encompassed the remnant of Northern Italy still under fascist control and occupied by the German army in 1943.  The Black Brigades were formed as a paramilitary force to support the RSI and the fascists.¹ On the front of this black beret is the skull and crossbones metal insignia of the Black Brigades surrounded by a gold embroidered bullion wreath. A bullion star is also sewn on the beret.  

Country: Italy	War Period: World War II
Garment Type: Beret	Year Made:
Identification: ITC-09-1208