Original German Prussian Transitional M1915 Garde Infantry EM-NCO Pickelhaube Helmet – Dated 1915 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of a German Empire period M1871 Garde-Infantry Mannschaften (EM-NCO) issued Pickelhaube. The M1915 was the last model of Pickelhaube issued prior to the move to steel helmets. In accordance with the 1915 regulations, these helmets would no longer use brass, silver, or Tombak as the M1895 did. All issued Pickelhaube would now use gray oxidized steel fittings for all Regiments. As with previous versions, the body was constructed from boiled leather, which was shaped and lacquered black.

This example is “transitional”, having been made in 1915, the year the new regulations came into effect. The front visor trim and rear spine are magnetic steel, and the top spike and fitting are plated steel. The chin strap fittings, buckles, and the front Wappen are the earlier 1895 pattern.

The overall condition of this pickelhaube is very good, with the metalwork showing a bit of age. The front garde korps wappen features a crowned Prussian state eagle clutching a scepter and sword in its claws, over the King’s motto, MIT GOTT FÜR KOENIG UND VATERLAND (With God for King and Country, i.e. Prussia). As this is a Garde helmet, there is a large 8 pointed “German Silver” star in the middle, which is the emblem of the Hoher Orden vom Schwarzen Adler (Order of the Black Eagle). The motto SUUM CUIQUE (to each his own) is marked above an eagle, with laurel leaves below. The Wappen is held in place by bolts on the back, as the earlier pattern did not quite line up with the holes already in the helmet.

It also has the correct “vent” on the rear support spine of the helmet, and the top spike is the correct enlisted pattern, which has a removable spike held on by a “bayonet” style attachment. It is complete with the Prussian (Black and White) and German National Colors (red white and black) cockades around the chin strap lugs. In 1897 the new Reichs-Kokarde in Red-White-Black was introduced for all ranks to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Kaiser Wilhelm 1st. The Reichs-Kokarde was to be worn on the right side of the helmet, and the state Kokarde was moved to the left, as on this helmet. The enlisted pattern chinstrap has brass fittings, and is in faire condition, showing deterioration to the leather.

The helmet’s interior reveals no depot marks, but there is a faded maker mark as well as a faint 1915 date just under the metal backing for the top spike. There is no size marking, but it seems to be around a size 56-57. The lacquer finished leather exterior is in very good condition having no serious issues, with the usual crazing and checking from age. The shape of this pickelhaube is preserved excellently, though it is just a bit deformed as shown. The front and rear visors are still present, though much of the stitching has rotted out, so they are a bit loose. The helmet is fitted with the standard leather liner, which has lost the top securing strap, and has some tearing on the left side. It is otherwise in very good shape

Overall a very appealing Transitional Prussian Model 1915 Garde Infantry Pickelhaube, ready to display!