Original German WWI Prussian Province of Westphalia M1897 Officers Pickelhaube Spiked Helmet Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. The Pickelhaube is an Iconic helmet, design, which originated in 19th Century German. The name itself comes from the German Pickel, “point” or “pickaxe”, and Haube, “bonnet”, a general word for “headgear”. Also known colloquially as Pickelhelm, these were spiked helmets worn in the 19th and 20th centuries by Prussian and German military, firefighters and police.

Although typically associated with the Prussian Army, which adopted it in 1842–43, it was used throughout Germany by the various states of the German Empire after it was founded in 1871. It also became the standard helmet used by Police and Fire forces as well, and there were a multitude of different variations across the country.

Regardless of the unit, officer Pickelhaube share common features such as: the top spike fitting is retained by “star” shaped rivets, and “egg & dart” Perlring was utilized around the base of the top spike. Additionally, chin scales were worn, attached permanently to the helmet. The officer’s Pickelhaube was basically unchanged from 1871 to 1899 when it had a more domed shape, and from 1899 to the end it had more of a skull shape. Aside from insignia, the officer’s Haube was mostly the same from 1871 to 1918. As with most pickelhauben, they are made from boiled leather, which is then lacquered black.

This example is definitely Prussian, but we do not believe it is army issue, and instead is most likely from an officer in the German Police or Fire. It could also be for a customs officer, as they were also granted officer’s helmets to wear. The front bears a typical Prussian Wappen (front plate), with the Prussian Crowned Eagle, holding the standard Scepter and Orb in its claws. However there is no banner or motto, and in the center of the eagles chest is the coat of arms of the one of the Provinces of Prussia, Provinz Westfalen (Province of Westphalia). Police and Fire forces were often handled at the Province or Local level, so this would be correct for a helmet used in that area. There are even traces of the original red paint that would have been on the coat of arms. The top spike is somewhat interesting as when removed, there is another fitting underneath, which unscrews from the spike base.

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, as on this helmet. The paint on both is still almost completely intact, with the usual age related fading and checking.

The overall condition of this officer’s pickelhaube is very good, though it is missing the star above the rear support spine. All of the helmet’s fittings are alloy, possibly plated, except for the star rivets for the top spike, which are brass alloy. The front chin scales are in very good condition, though they look to be possibly post war replacements. The interior liner is present, but worn, as shown, and the silk skullcap is missing. 

Overall this is a great looking and very attractive German Pickelhaube. Ready to add to your collection and display!