Original German WWI Prussian M1915 Infantry EM/NCO 53cm Pickelhaube Spiked Helmet dated 1916 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an Imperial Prussian Line Infantry enlisted man’s Mannschaften (other ranks or EM / NCO) 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 would use brass, silver, or Tombak as the M1895 did. All issued Pickelhaube would now use grey oxidized steel fittings for all Regiments. As with previous versions, the body was constructed from from boiled leather, which was shaped and lacquered black.

This helmet features an oxide plated steel frontplate (wappen), and the crown of this leather helmet displays a vented enlisted removable spike mounted on a steel baseplate, which can still be easily removed. There is also the small adjustable vent on the spine that supports the rear skirt, only seen on the enlisted helmets, which is stuck closed.

The front wappen features a crowned Prussian state eagle clutching a scepter and orb in its claws, over the King’s motto, MIT GOTT FÜR KOENIG UND VATERLAND (With God for King and Country, i.e. Prussia). The wappen still has one of the retaining loops, which is held in place by a piece of wood added well after this helmet’s time in service. The left loop is missing, and the wappen is held on by tape on that side. Both cockades are unfortunately missing, as well as the chin strap

The helmet still has a liner, but it is quite worn, and missing a significant portion on the rear left. The top strap is also missing. There are some markings inside the helmet, including a very faint size 53 stamp, as well as a faint makers mark with the date 1916.

Condition of the helmet is good, but definitely shows a lot of wear, with the leather showing deformation in areas. The visor stitching is still intact on the front and the back, however the front visor is missing all of the metal trim.

Overall a very nice service used condition Imperial Prussian pickelhaube, perfect for any WWI collection!