In armored vehicles, the noise level from the running engine and exploding artillery was very high. Standard headphones did not protect the soldier from this noise, and a nearby explosion could easily knock them off the head. These headphones had a dual purpose: 1) radio communications with other armored vehicles and 2) communication with other members of the vehicle's crew. A more durable construction was required, so these headphones had a thick leather-bound band connecting the ear-cups. The ear-speakers were very heavy duty and were connected to the head-band with a ball-and-socket joint. The actual cups were constructed of rubber. The Panzer headphones were often used in conjunction with the throat-microphone set.

These Panzer headphones were manufactured by Telefunken and are in mint and unissued condition

Closeup of the ear-speaker unit

The connector showing the (+) terminus.