Original German WWI Prussian M1915 Artillery Pickelhaube Helmet – Kugelhelm Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very good  condition Imperial German Prussian Artillery enlisted man’s Mannschaften (other ranks) pickelhaube. On this version of the Pickelhaube, a ball representing a cannon ball replaced the usual spike, leading this to be referred to as an Artillerie Kugelhelm (Artillery Ball-Top Helm). The helmet is dated 1915, and nicely maker marked. In addition, it is stamped with a depot stamp for R.A.V.
 
The M1915 was the last model of Pickelhaube issued prior to the move to all steel helmets. In accordance with the 1915 regulations these helmets would no longer would use brass, silver, or Tombak as the M1895 did. All issued Pickelhaube would now use grey oxidized steel fittings for all Regiments.

This helmet features a oxidized steel frontplate (wappen) with the Prussian state eagle clutching a scepter and crown, over the King’s motto, “Mit Gott Für Koenig und Vaterland” (With God for King and Country, i.e. Prussia). The crown of this leather helmet displays a vented enlisted removable ball (kugel) mounted on an oxidized steel baseplate. The ball is in excellent condition, and is easily removable using the “bayonet-style” attaching system. It is complete with the Prussian (black and white) and German National Colors (red white and black) kokarden (cockades) around the chin strap lugs. The Attached chin strap is original, complete, and in great shape. The interior features a nice original leather liner.  Size is approximately US 6.75 (54cm).
 
The black leather shell shows normal age crazing and wear. The lacquer finished leather is in very good condition having no serious issues. The front visor stitching is loose, but the visor is held in place by the side rivets. It does not detract from the overall outward appearance of the helmet.
 
The front leather visor has oxidized steel trim in very good condition. The metal spine that descends from the spike’s baseplate to the edge of the rear visor is also in very good condition.  Overall a very nice condition Imperial Prussian Artillery pickelhaube, a great hard to find addition to any collection.