Original German WWI Prussian M1915 Artillery Pickelhaube Helmet – “Kugelhelm”- Complete Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very good condition Imperial German Prussian Artillery enlisted man’s Mannschaften (other ranks) Artillery 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 also size stamped, “54 ½”.

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 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 wappen is secured via the original leather thongs on the reverse, just as issued.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. 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. All metal fittings have been painted silver a long time ago. Whether this was done during WWI, or done a few decades later is unknown. It does however match the patina of the helmet itself, and does not detract too terribly from the rest of the helmet.

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 National cockade appears to have been “touched up” a long time ago. So long ago, in fact, that it looks almost period.

The Attached chin strap is believed to be original, complete, and in great shape. The interior features a nice original leather liner. 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 and rear visor stitching is slightly loose. It does not detract from the overall outward appearance of the helmet.

Overall a very nice condition Imperial Prussian Artillery pickelhaube, a great hard to find addition to any collection.