Original Item: Only One Available. Complete with all original parts, this is a traditional WWI pickelhaube. It was manufactured from boiled leather, lacquered black, and outfitted with fittings made of brass or German silver dependent upon the regiment it was assigned to. The protection it offered was very limited and led to the eventual replacement by a steel helmet in 1916.
This helmet features a gilt brass Wappen (front plate) displaying the coat of arms of the Kingdom of Sachsen (Saxony), which is flanked by the traditional double-lion motif and topped by a King’s Crown. Underneath is a banner with the Saxon motto: PROVIDENTIAE MEMOR – “Keep Providence In Mind”.
It is complete with the Kingdom of Saxony (white and green) and German National Colors (red white and black) Kokarden (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.
Helmet shows no crazing or tarnish to the lacquer, nor loose fittings from the normal shrinking with age, and comes complete with the original scaled chin strap. The top spike and all fittings are in great shape, and the distinctive customs officer spike plate is in great shape.
Interior of the Pickelhaube is in very fine condition, exhibiting moderate use. It has a correct black leather liner, and includes the original tie straps. There is a small label giving the Size 57 next to the name Hartmann and features the original maker/inspection sticker:
G.H OSANG
MILITAIREFFECTEN
BRONCEWAAREN
MEATALLKNOPF-
FABRIK
DRESDEN NEUGASSE 30
Dresden is the capital of Saxony, and one of its largest cities. Excellent condition on this spike helmet, and it’s not everyday we come across something from a customs division. Ready to display!
Dimensions:
Overall length: 9 ¾”
Overall width: 8”
Height: 9”
Circumference: 22”
Weight: 1lb 1 oz.