Original German WWI Prussian M1915 Infantry EM/NCO Pickelhaube Spiked Helmet – Depot & Regt. Marked 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 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. 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 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 It is held in place by the standard leather wedges on the inside of the shell, though one has been replaced by a piece of paper.  It is complete with the Prussian (black and white) and German National Colors (red white and black) Kokarden (cockades) around the chin strap lugs. 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, however on this helmet they were reversed for some reason, and are oxidized in place. 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 shows only light use. All fingers are intact, and still have intact securing strap holes. The strap itself however is broken, but could be replaced. Size is faintly stamped as 55. The interior also has depot and regimental markings ink stamped on the interior and rear skirt. These often wear away, so having them is definitely a bonus.

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 firmly with intact stitching, another rarity. The fittings are all still 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!