Original German Prussian M1871 Garde Foot Artillery EM-NCO Pickelhaube Helmet – Kugelhelm Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice German Empire period M1871 Garde-Fußartillerie (Foot Artillery) Mannschaften (EM-NCO) issued Pickelhaube. It does have some damage to the wappen from use and wear, but it still has a great look. As this is the artillery version of the Pickelhaube, ball representing a cannon ball replaced the usual spike, leading this to be referred to as an Artillerie Kugelhelm (Artillery Ball-Top Helm).

The shape of this helmet shows that it is clearly the more domed M1871 model, which was replaced in M1895 by a lower profile type. As this is a Garde pickelhaube, it has many of the appointments usually seen on officer’s helmets, even though it is definitely for an enlisted man. These include the chin scales, as well as the top fitting with egg “perlring” around it. The ball on top properly unscrews for the mounting of a Haarbusch Plume.

The overall condition of this pickelhaube is very good. All of the helmet’s furniture is highly-detailed gilt brass alloy, which is still somewhat bright, something we rarely see! Usually the gold has worn away, leaving a dull patina. The Prussian wappen (coat of arms) features a large eagle with the King’s motto, MIT GOTT FÜR KOENIG UND VATERLAND (With God for King and Country, i.e. Prussia). The Wappen is held in place by the correct bolts used on officer’s models. However, it was at some point damaged, and an “eagle’s head” was grafted into place, without the crown. It is also missing the round guard shield in the middle, which would have born the motto SUUM CUIQUE (to each his own) around a central eagle. The slots where it was originally mounted can still be seen.

The chin scales are in great shape, with all of the leather backing still intact, though it is in somewhat delicate condition. The left side end clasp on the scales themselves is unfortunately missing. The chin scales are still securely attached on both sides.

It is complete with the Prussian (black and white) Kokarden (cockades) around the chin strap lugs. These are present on both sides, which is correct, as this model of helmet was only issued prior to 1897, when the Tri-Color National Cockade was introduced. The paint on both is still almost completely intact, with the usual age related fading and checking.

The helmet’s interior reveals no depot marks or other markings of any kind that we can see. There is no size marking, but it seems to be around a size 56-57. The lacquer finished leather 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, especially on the rear visor.

The inside liner is still present, and is the standard leather type used before the introduction of the silk “Skull Cap” type. It is fully intact, though it has pulled away from the edge at some areas, and the original top tie has been replaced.

Overall a very appealing Model 1871 Garde Foot Artillery Pickelhaube Kugelhelm, ready to display!