Original German WWI Prussian M1915 Infantry EM/NCO Pickelhaube Spiked 56cm Helmet Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a nice condition 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 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 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. There is also the small adjustable vent on the spine that supports the rear skirt, only seen on the enlisted helmets.

The front wappen features 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). It is held in place by the standard leather wedges on the inside of the shell, both are still present. It is complete with the Prussian (black and white) and German National Colors (red white and black) Kokarden (cockades) around the chin strap lugs. Most of the white paint has chipped away on the cockades. 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. The Attached chin strap is complete, with the expected wear, and oxidation on the steel buckles.

The interior features a nice original leather liner, which does show heavy use. All fingers are intact, and still have intact securing strap holes but unfortunately some do have tears in them and along the seam in the back. The strap itself however is missing, but could be replaced. Size is faintly stamped as 56 under the rear skirt, and there are no manufacturer’s stamps visible.

The exterior of the helmet shell is really in great shape, with a nice shiny enamel finish, with lovely age checking/cracking, but no real damage of flaking. The front and rear visors are still attached with intact stitching, another rarity but they are a little warped. The fittings are mostly tight to the helmet, with a movable vent and correct removable top spike. This is one of the better examples that we have seen lately.

Overall a very good condition Imperial Prussian pickelhaube, perfect for any WWI collection!