Imperial German Headgear 1860 to 1910

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Imperial German Dunkelblau

1860 to 1914

Imperial German

Dunkelblau Helmets

1860 to 1915

The Model 1842 Pickelhaube

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From:

Der Bunte Rock in Preuen. Staatliche Museen Preuischer Kulturbesitz, Berlin, (1981)

In 1842, the King of Preuen (Prussia), Friedrich Wilhelm IV introduced

the spiked helmet for the majority of Preuen foot troops by AKO

(Allerhchste Kabinetts Order = A Royal Cabinet Order) of 23 October

1842.

Helmet fittings, such as the Wappen (front plate), spike and base, front

visor trim, and rear spine were made in either brass or German silver

(nickel). As a rule, the color of the uniform buttons worn by the unit (gilt

or silver) determined the color of the fittings on the helmet.

The helmet averaged 34 to 38 cm tall (approx. 15 inches) with a squared

front visor which flared out at the sides. For Infantry and the majority of

other foot troops, the helmet was decorated with a 14 cm tall spike

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supported on a cruciform spike base. For ventilation, two holes were

placed in the neck of the spike which was surrounded by a brass

decorative "Perlring" (literally, a ring of pearls) at the bottom.

Convex brass chinscales were worn by all ranks and were secured to the

helmet with a 3cm threaded bolt with a brass head. The chinscales did not

hook together and required the use of the small leather strap behind the

chinscales to keep them together when not worn under the chin.

On the rear of the helmet, a brass spine secured with two brass studs ran

from the spike base to the bottom of the rear visor which added strength

and rigidity to the helmet body.

The line eagle Wappen (front plate) measured 125mm and carried a "FR"

on the eagle's chest for most troops or "FWR" (Friedrich Wilhelm Rex) in a

cypher for Grenadier Regiments .

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A spread wing Garde pattern eagle Wappen with Garde star was worn by

the Garde-Regt. zu Fu Regiments. The Preuen Garde Grenadier

Regiments wore the same spread wing Garde pattern eagle Wappen, but

without the Garde star. The Wappen on all helmets was originally secured

by two bolts that passed through the front of the plate but this was

changed in 1843 to two threaded bolts soldered to the reverse of the

Wappen.

Landwehr and Reserve wore a similar eagle Wappen, but a silver

Landwehr Iron Cross was carried on the chest instead of the FR or FWR

cypher of the line troops.

Click on the thumbnail picture for a larger picture and a full explanation.

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Front Wappen

Spike Base

Side & Liner

Rear Spine

Side Post

Die Preuen Artillerie

From 1842 to 1844 the Preuen Artillerie (Prussian Artillery) wore a line infantry Pickelhaube

with spike which was replaced by AKO (Imperial decree) 19 September 1844 AKO with a Kugel

(ball) to represent a cannon ball. From this point on, the Artillery helmet was known as a

"Kugelhelm". Like all Pickelhaube, the Artillerie Kugelhelm underwent numerous modifications

from 1844 to 1915.

Kokarden

On the right side of the helmet a 75mm leather Preuen Kokarde in the national colors of

black/white/black was worn under the chinscale for the rank of Vizefeldwebel and below.

Please click HERE for a detailed list of NCO ranks. In 1844 Portepee-Unteroffiiziere were

entitled to wear a 75mm leather officer's Kokarde with silver metal ring while Sergeant and

below retained the 75mm Leather Kokarde.

In 1846 the Portepee-Unteroffiiziere (and officers and Fhnrich) were entitled to wear a 75mm

silk Kokarde with silver painted ring although the 1844 Kokarde was used concurrently. For

Sergeant and below, the leather Kokarde was replaced with a 75mm Painted wool Kokarde.

In 1848 a new "Deutsche Kokarde" was introduced to be worn on the left side of the helmet,

but this was short-lived and the "Deutsche Kokarde" was terminated in 1851.

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A view of the Model 1842 Preuen Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Landwehr

Pickelhaube profile. The height of this helmet is shown nicely in this photograph.

Sitting on a flat surface, the helmet measures an incredible 38cm tall (15 inches) tall.

The helmet would have originally been issued with a 75mm leather Preuen Kokarde in the

national colors of black/white/black, however, this example carries the massive 75mm metal

Preuen Kokarde introduced in 1857; probably added when the helmet was issued to the

Landwehr or Reserve.

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The liner of the M1842 Pickelhaube was of heavy leather with rounded

"tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit. The

rear visor has curled inward from the effects of time, unlike the front visor

which carries a thick brass trim. Of interest, the rear visor has a sewn

leather edge, similar to what is found on the rear visor of Officer

Pickelhaubes right up until 1918.

Note that all the brass threaded bolts for securing the brass fittings to the

shell are all domed.

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On the rear of the helmet, a brass spine secured with two brass studs runs

from the spike base to the bottom of the rear visor which adds strength and

rigidity to the helmet body.

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The helmet shell is sewn up the rear and the rear brass spine helps to hide

this feature of the construction.

The helmet spike is an amazing 14 cm tall and rests on a cruciform spike base

which slopes sharply down to follow the contour of the shell. For ventilation,

two holes in the neck of the spike can be closed by rotating the brass

decorative "Perlring" (literally, a ring of pearls) at the bottom.

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The spike top is not removable, as removable spike tops were not introduced

for specific Regiments until 1857.

The line eagle Wappen (front plate) measures 125mm and mimics the shape

and pattern of the Royal Preuen scepter. Rather than having the standard

"FR" or "FWR" on the eagle's chest for most troops, this Landwehr or Reserve

Wappen carries a silver Landwehr Iron Cross.

Note that on this early Wappen all tail feathers drop vertically below the

chest and that the gaps between the wings and the legs are not voided.

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The large convex brass chinscales are secured to the helmet with a 3cm

threaded bolt with a brass head.

The heavy brass convex chinscales measure an impressive 36mm wide at the

widest point. All troops wore convex chinscales until 1856 when an AKO

directed that the convex brass chinscales would be changed to flat brass

chinscales for all Infantry units.

Model 1842 Preuen Infantry Landwehr Pickelhaube

The "Grandfather" of all Pickelhaubes; an issued Model 1842 Preuen

Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Landwehr Pickelhaube.

The brass eagle Wappen (front plate), spike and base, front visor trim,

rear spine, and chinscales, are fitted to an exceptionally tall helmet shell

made from boiled leather with a distinctive squared front visor which

flares out at the sides. As is typical for an issued helmet, this helmet has

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had a varied career. It appears that it was originally issued in 1842 to a

Line Infantry Regiment, re-fitted sometime after 1843 with a new eagle

Wappen, eventually issued to the Landwehr or Reserve, and finally fitted

with a Model metal Preuen Kokarde in 1857.

As the Pickelhaube evolved, older Model 1842 helmets were cut down

and re-sewn to comply with the new regulations. M1842 were converted

to M1857, then converted again to M1860, then once again to M1867 etc.

This policy of modifying older models to new regulations explains the

extreme rarity of issued M1842 Pickelhaubes today.

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The line eagle Wappen (front plate) measures 125mm

and mimics the shape and pattern of the Royal Preuen

scepter. Rather than having the standard "FR" or "FWR"

on the eagle's chest for most troops, this Landwehr or

Reserve Wappen carries a silver Landwehr Iron Cross.

Note that on this early Wappen all tail feathers drop

vertically below the chest and that the gaps between

the wings and the legs are not voided.

Holes under the Wappen reveal that this Pickelhaube

carried the original M1842 Wappen which was secured

by two bolts that passed through the wings of the eagle

Wappen. In 1843 two threaded bolts were soldered to

the reverse of newer eagle Wappen which required new

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holes in the front of the helmet shell.

A small corner of the 1813 Landwehr Iron Cross on this example has

broken off which is typical as metal from this era tends to be quite brittle.

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A view of the Model 1842 Preuen Infantry

Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Landwehr Pickelhaube

profile. The height of this helmet is shown nicely in this

photograph.

Sitting on a flat surface, the helmet measures an

incredible 38cm tall (15 inches) tall.

The helmet would have originally been issued with a

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75mm leather Preuen Kokarde in the national colors of

black/white/black, however, this example carries the

massive 75mm metal Preuen Kokarde introduced in

1857; probably added when the helmet was issued to

the Landwehr or Reserve.

The helmet spike is an amazing 14 cm tall and rests on a cruciform spike

base which slopes sharply down to follow the contour of the shell. For

ventilation, two holes in the neck of the spike can be closed by rotating

the brass decorative "Perlring" (literally, a ring of pearls) at the bottom.

The spike top is not removable, as removable spike tops were not

introduced for specific Regiments until 1857.

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On the rear of the helmet, a brass spine secured with two brass studs runs

from the spike base to the bottom of the rear visor which adds strength

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and rigidity to the helmet body.

The helmet shell is sewn up the rear and the rear brass spine helps to hide

this feature of the construction.

The large convex brass chinscales are secured to the helmet with a 3cm

threaded bolt with a brass head.

The heavy brass convex chinscales measure an impressive 36mm wide at

the widest point. All troops wore convex chinscales until 1856 when an

AKO directed that the convex brass chinscales would be changed to flat

brass chinscales for all Infantry units.

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The chinscales have a small leather strap and buckle sewn into the

chinscale backing to keep them together when not worn under the chin.

The chinscales did not hook together on issued M1842 Pickelhaubes, so

both ends of the last scale on the chinscales are simply rounded.

The liner of the M1842 Pickelhaube was of heavy leather with rounded

"tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit. The

rear visor has curled inward from the effects of time, unlike the front visor

which carries a thick brass trim. Of interest, the rear visor has a sewn

leather edge, similar to what is found on the rear visor of Officer

Pickelhaubes right up until 1918.

Note that all the brass threaded bolts for securing the brass fittings to the

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shell are all domed.

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An exceptionally rare photograph of a soldier of the Preuen Infantry

wearing a Model 1842 Pickelhaube.

The photographer was Atelier (studio) Ernst Fentsch in Neisse. It is signed

by what appears to read (?) as : Freiherrn Treusch von Buttlar Brandenfels

(?) and annotated that he belonged to Infanterie-Regiment Graf Bose (1.

Thringisches) Nr.31 from Altona.

Although commercial photographs on tin were available from August

1839 by Louis Daguerre as Daguerreotypes, this image was captured as an

early Cartes-de-visite which were introduced by Parisian photographer,

Andre Disdri in 1854. Due to the significant changes introduced in the

shape of the Pickelhaube between 1857 and 1860, this photograph was

probably taken at least prior to 1860, making it the oldest photograph of a

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Pickelhaube in use that I am aware of.

I am not aware of any other photograph owned or in print, of an M1842

Pickelhaube being worn.

The Model 1856/57 Pickelhaube

On 26 June 1856, an AKO directed that the convex brass chinscales would be

changed to flat brass chinscales for all Infantry units. Cavalry and Field

Artillery units, however, continued to utilize convex chinscales. For all units,

the new chinscales hooked together in the center with a small ball and

corresponding hole when not worn under the chin and the the long retaining

bolt of 1842 was replaced by a simple threaded screw with a corresponding

threaded post.

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An AKO dated 24 December 1857

reduced the helmet height to make

the helmet less unwieldy and more

practical for use. Older Model 1842

helmets were cut down and re-sewn

to comply with the new regulations.

This policy of modifying older

models to new regulations explains

the rarity of early Pickelhaubes

today.

This amazingly clear period photo of

a M1857 sitting on a desk clearly

shows the reduced height, flat

chinscales which hooked together,

and the threaded screw post.

An additional change for 1857 was the introduction of a new 75mm painted

Kokarde made from stamped sheet-metal to replace the painted wool

Kokarde which had proved less than satisfactory.


On 10 May 1860 a Bandeau was introduced for the eagle Wappen with

the motto "MIT GOTT FR KOENIG UND VATERLAND" (With God For King

And Fatherland) to be placed above the "FR" or "FWR" cypher. Reserve

and Landwehr did not adopt the new Bandeau.

On 04 November 1860 the Pickelhaube was once again reduced slightly in

size and once again existing Model 1856/57 helmets were cut down and

re-sewn to comply with the new regulations. The reduced height of the

helmet shell resulted in a new 56mm stamped sheet-metal Kokarde being

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introduced.

This slight height reduction made the 125mm eagle Wappen too large for

the helmet and a new eagle Wappen measuring 120mm was also

introduced.

M1860 Hannover Infantry Regiment 79

Click to Enlarge

Older 1842 pattern eagle Wappen that were

void of the Bandeau, were modified by having

a Bandeau soldered to the front to make the

older eagle Wappens comply with the

regulations. This example shows a M1842

eagle Wappen converted to M1860 with the

addition of a Bandeau.

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Front Wappen

Spike Base

Side & Liner

Rear Spine

Side Post

This period photo of an issued

M1860 sitting on a desk beside a

member of the Garde-Regt. zu Fu

clearly shows the reduced height

and "vaterland" Bandeau. Note

also the spread wing Garde pattern

eagle Wappen.

In 1860 the Landwehr, which had worn a Pickelhaube from 1842, replaced

the Pickelhaube with the M1860 pattern Tschako. The Tschako was worn by

the Landwehr until 1881 when they once again adopted the Pickelhaube.

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A side view showing the high profile, typical for a Model 1860.

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The liner of the M1860 helmet had not changed from the Model 1842

helmet. Contrary to some publications, this liner was in use for

Mannschaften (Other Ranks) for the entire life of the Pickelhaube, from 1842

to 1915.

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A view of the rear of the helmet. Note the brass spine secured with two brass

studs thta were worn from 1842 to 1867. *NOTE* This pattern of rear spine

with external studs, continued to be used by Dragoon regiments right up

until 1915.

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The M1860 spike was quite tall and maintained the Perlring for all

Mannschaft (Other Ranks). The top for this example is not removable, as only

titled units were allowed to wear parade plumes.

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A view of the domed brass nuts used to secure the front plate and crucifrom

spike base.

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A view of the M1860 Wappen (front plate) with the Bandeau introduced in

1860 with the motto " MIT GOTT FR KOENIG UND VATERLAND" (With God

For King And Fatherland). Older Wappen that were void of the Bandeau were

modified by having a Bandeau soldered to the front to make the Wappens

comply with the regulations.

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A view of the threaded screw post and flat brass chinscales for all Infantry

units. The Preuen Kokarde is sheet metal.

Preuen (Hannover) Model 1860

Infantry Regt 79

Model 1860 Hannover Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube for Inf. -

Regt. Von Voigts - Rhetz (3. Hannoversches) Nr.79, Hildesheim X. Armee-

Korps.

What makes this helmet interesting is that Hannover was occupied and

annexed by Prussia in 1866 after Hannover sided with Austria in the 1866

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war. The helmet is dated 1867 which would have been the first year of

IR79 being under Prussian control.

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A view of the M1860 Wappen (front plate) with the

Bandeau introduced in 1860 with the motto " MIT GOTT

FR KOENIG UND VATERLAND" (With God For King And

Fatherland). Older Wappen that were void of the

Bandeau were modified by having a Bandeau soldered

to the front to make the Wappens comply with the

regulations.

The helmet is unit marked IR79 1867 FB (Fsilier Batt) on the skull inside

top. As is typical with early helmets, the unit markings are in white paint.

Note the domed brass threaded bolts for securing the cruciform spike

base.

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A side view showing the high profile, typical for a Model

1860.

A view of the rear of the helmet. Note the brass spine secured with two

brass studs that were worn from 1842 to 1867.

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The liner of the M1860 helmet had not changed from the Model 1842

helmet. Contrary to some publications, this liner was in use for

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Mannschaften (Other Ranks) for the entire life of the Pickelhaube, from

1842 to 1915.

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A rather scarce photograph of a

Private in a Preuen Infantry

Regt holding his Model 1860

Pickelhaube. The tunic is a

M1842 Waffenrock.


As a direct result of experience gained in the war with Austria and Hannover

in 1866, changes were required which were intended to simplify production

and reduce the cost of manufacturing the Pickelhaube.

The cruciform spike base was changed to a round base secured with split

brads bent back against the inside of the helmet, the square front peak

was changed to a rounded one, and the rear spine was removed to reduce

the amount of brass used in construction.

As a result of the removed rear spine, earlier helmets that had been sewn

up the rear, were reversed so the helmet plate would cover the stitching

and new visors were attached in the reverse positions. These modified

helmets show extensive re-working with plugged holes on the rear from

the old eagle Wappen and on the top from the removed cruciform spike

base.

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M1867 Oldenberg Infantry Regiment 91

A notable change was with the method for retaining the eagle Wappen (front

plate). The threaded bolts on the reverse of the Wappen were replaced with

two sliders that slid into two corresponding mounts secured to the outside of

the helmet.

The final modification, was the reduction in size of the stamped metal

Mannschaften Kokarden for Sergeant and below to 51mm to reflect the

reduced height of the helmet shell.


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Front Wappen

Spike Base

Side & Liner

Plate Slides

Plate Slides

Exceptions to the Model 1867 Pickelhaube

Although Line units such as Infantry, Artillery, Pioneer, Train (Supply), and

Verkehrstruppen (please see Glossary for details) adopted the round spike

base and visor in 1867, Dragoner (Dragoons) continued to use cruciform

spike bases and squared front visors. Some members of the German Empire

such as Hessen and some Wrttemberg units utilized a combination. As this

essay is limited to the Kingdom of Preuen, please see the On-Line Guide to

Imperial German Pickelhauben for details on helmets from other

contingents.


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A side view showing the high dome of the helmet.

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The liner of the M1867 remained the same, but the threaded bolts for

securing the spike base have now been replaced with split brads bent back

against the inside of the helmet.

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In 1867, the cruciform spike base was changed to a round base secured with

split brads bent back against the inside of the helmet. On the M1867 helmets

the rear spines were removed to reduce the amount of brass used in

construction.

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Inside, the bolts on issued helmets were changed to split brads bent back

against the reinforcement plate.

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A view of the M1867 Wappen (front plate) for Oldenburg. Note that for

Oldenburg, a regular Preuen bandeau " MIT GOTT FR KOENIG UND

VATERLAND" was used, superimposed with the Oldenburg Wappen (crest).

The M1867 Wappen was secured to the helmet shell with two flat sliders

that replaced the threaded bolts. The plate fit into corresponding two female

slots secured to the front of the helmet.

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With the Wappen on an M1867 removed, the old "rear" of the helmet and

stitching is revealed, indicating that this helmet was originally an M1842,

M1856, or M1860 pattern Pickelhaube before it was converted to an M1867.

A notable change on the M1867 was with the method for retaining the eagle

Wappen (front plate). The threaded bolts on the reverse of the Wappen

were replaced with two sliders that slid into two corresponding mounts

secured to the outside of the helmet.

This helmet shows evidence of being re-worked more than once, as it

appears to initially have had a Wappen with screw-posts attached when it

was converted to an M1867, and then later updated with M67 slider mounts.

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A view of the two brass slides on the reverse of the M1867 front plate. No

previous soldering from M1860 bolts are visible indicating that the front

plate was constructed as an M1867. Note the two nuts on the center of the

chest for the Oldenberg Wappen.

Model 1867 Preuen Garde Grenadier Pickelhaube

Model 1867 Preuen Garde Grenadier Pickelhaube from one of the five

Garde Grenadier Regts.

As a result of the war with Austria and Hannover in 1866, changes to

simplify production and reduce the cost of manufacturing Pickelhauben

resulted in the Model 1867. The cruciform spike base was changed to a

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round base secured with split brads bent back against the inside of the

helmet, the square front peak was changed to a rounded one, and the

rear spine was removed to reduce the amount of brass used in

construction.

The chances are very good that this helmet was worn during the Battle of

Gravelotte-St. Privat (August 18, 1870) during the Franco-Preuen war.

This helmet is not only important for the war in which it was worn, but it

is also a fascinating study in how early helmets were cut-down, reworked,

and reissued.

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This helmet was worn by the following Regiments of

Garde Grenadier, all of whom were garrisoned with the

Garde-Korps:

Kaiser Alexander Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.1 (Berlin)

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Kaiser Franz Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.2 (Berlin) Knigin Elisabeth Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.3

(Charlottenburg) Knigin Augusta Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.4

(Berlin)

A close-up of the Preuen swept-wing eagle Garde

Grenadier Wappen (front plate) which had been worn

since 1842. The regiments of the Garde Grenadier were

not allowed to wear the Garde star until 28 August 1889.

With the Garde Grenadier eagle Wappen removed, the old "rear" of the

helmet and stitching is revealed, indicating that this helmet was originally

an M1842, M1856, or M1860 pattern Pickelhaube before it was converted

to an M1867.

A notable change on the M1867 was with the method for retaining the

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eagle Wappen (front plate). The threaded bolts on the reverse of the

Wappen were replaced with two sliders that slid into two corresponding

mounts secured to the outside of the helmet.

This helmet shows evidence of being re-worked more

than once, as it appears to initially have had a M1860

eagle Wappen with screw-posts attached when it was

converted to an M1867, and then later updated with

M67 slider mounts for the Garde Grenadier Wappen.

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A view of the reverse of the eagle Wappen with the two

sliders for retaining the eagle Wappen onto the helmet.

A view of the rear showing that like a typical M1867 helmet, there is no

rear spine as per the M1867 regulations.

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A view of the Model 1867 Preuen Garde Grenadier

Pickelhaube profile. Note that there is no rear spine. As

the Garde Grenadier were titled Regiments, they were

allowed to wear a Haarbusch (parade plume). To

accommodate a Haarbusch, the spike top is removable. .

On all four sides of the round base are filled holes where the previous

cruciform spike base was mounted.

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On what is now the back of the helmet, are filled holes for a two different

Wappens on which was originally the 'front' of the helmet.

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The liner of the issued M1867 helmet was heavy leather with rounded

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"tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit.

As the liners in issued Pickelhauben were essentially the same from 1842

to 1915, this is probably the original liner from when the helmet was a

M1842, M1856, or M1860 pattern Pickelhaube.

Both front and rear visors shows evidence of a filled hole where a rear

spine once was mounted.

This indicates (ready for this?) that the front visor on the helmet, was

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once a back visor on an earlier pattern!

Under the screw-posts for the flat brass chinsclaes, are holes where the

screw-posts were mounted before the helmet was cut down to reduce the

height.

The Battle of Gravelotte-St. Privat

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The incredible painting above is from my favorite

German artist Herr Carl Rchling (1855-1920) depicting

soldiers of the Garde-Korps during the famous attack on

St. Privat 18 Aug 1870. Men are depicted wearing a mix

of M1860 and M1867 helmets.

The Battle of Gravelotte-St. Privat (August 18, 1870)

during the Franco-Preuen war occurred in these small

villages in Lorraine about six miles west of Metz, France

and was the largest battle during the war.

On August 18, 1870 the Preuens, having on the

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previous day intercepted the French army's retreat to

the west at the battle of Mars-La-Tour, now closed in to

complete the destruction of the French forces. The

battle began at 08:00 when the German Commander

von Moltke ordered the First and Second Armies to

advance against the heavily fortified French positions.

The French, once aware of the Preuen advance,

opened up a massive fire and soon the Preuen infantry

were pinned down by murderous rifle and mitrailleuse

fire from the French positions.

By 16:50, with the Preuen southern attacks in danger

of breaking up, the Preuen Garde launched an attack

against the French positions at St-Privat and were soon

found themselves pinned down by lethal French fire

from the rifle pits and trenches. Seeing the grim

situation of the Preuen Garde, Prince Frederick Charles

ordered a massed artillery attack against the French

positions at St. Privat. With this massive artillery

support, the survivors of the Garde Division launched a

fresh attack against the ruins of St. Privat resulting in the

capture of the village. The next morning, the French

Army of the Rhine, rather than resume the battle with

an attack of its own against the battle-weary German

armies, retreated to Metz where they were besieged

and forced to surrender two months later.

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The casualties were horrendous on all sides; a total of

20,163 German troops were killed, wounded or missing

in action during the August 18 battle. Losses of the

Preuen Garde Division were staggering, with 8,000

casualties out of 18,000 men. French losses were 7,855

killed and wounded along with 4,420 prisoners of war

(half of these wounded), for a total of 12,275.


Experience in the

Franco-Preuen war of

1870 to 1871 proved

that the slider system

for securing the

Wappen (front plate)

was inadequate, as

field use often resulted

in helmet Wappens

being lost. As a result,

the proven threaded

bolt and nut was

reinstated to replace

the unsuccessful slider

system.

At the same time a

rear spine with hidden

bolts soldered to the

underside of the spine

was introduced as the

helmet proved to be

M1871 Preuia Eisenbahn Regiment

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too weak without it.


Front Wappen

Spike Base

Side & Liner

Rear Spine

Side Post

Members of the

Garde wearing

issued M1871

Pickelhaube.


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A side view of the Model 1871 Pickelhaube. For some reason, these

are often higher than M1860 or M1867 examples.

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The liner of the M1871 remained the same as for the M1842 helmet.

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The M1871 spike remained quite tall, and maintained the Perlring for all

issued helmets. The top for this example is removable, as this Regiment was

entitled to wear a parade plume. The twin vent holes in this helmet is

capable of being closed to prevent excessive ventilation. Rather than being

soldered on, the Perlring can be rotated to close the twin vents on the spike

neck.

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A view of the issued M1871 Wappen (front plate) for Garde units. The

M1867 slider system was replaced in 1871 by the proven system of a

threaded bolt soldered to the reverse of the plate, and secured to the helmet

shell by an internal brass nut.

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A rear view showing the massive rear visor and tall spike. The rear spine of

the M1871 is secured to the helmet shell by threaded studs soldered to the

underside of the spine. This cleaned up the external appearance somewhat,

as the exposed studs from the M1860 were no longer visible.

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A view of the threaded screw post and flat brass chinscales for all Infantry

units. The Preuen Kokarde is sheet metal.


74

Several changes were introduced in

1887 to reduce the amount of brass

used and to simplify construction. The

body was reduced in height and the

front brass or silver peak trim was

removed and replaced by a ribbed edge

pressed directly into the leather,

identical to that of the Preuen pattern

Tschako.

Other significant changes included a

new pattern of leather chinstrap and a

shorter spike with five ventilation holes

and no Perlring.

Photo German Army Museum Rastatt

For Foot Troops, the brass chinscales were changed to an adjustable

leather chinstrap which hooked onto a loop and hook system which

replaced the previous threaded screw-post. Garde Regiments were fitted

with their same brass or silver chinscales, but with the unique M1887

hook and eye.

The intent was for these metal chinscales to be worn only on parade and

in garrison; for field duty the helmets of Garde Regiments would be fitted

with leather chinstraps as worn by the Line Regiments.

75

To further aid in ventilation, the M1887 spike was significantly shorter

than previous models. The previous twin ventilation holes on the spike

neck were increased to five or six, although it seems that few contingents

used six ventilation holes, as these seem to be found only on helmets

from Baden and Hessen.

For foot troops the rounded Perlring on the spike neck was replaced by a

solitary protruding ring around the circumference of the spike neck.

Cavalry, however, and apparently Artillery (until 1895?) continued to use

spike necks with a Perlring.

76

Although more suitable for the Pickelhaube Characteristics & Rank Guide, a

few significant changes to the Preuen eagle Wappens occurred between

1887 and 1891 that are worth mentioning here. The regiments of the Garde

Grenadier who since 1842 had worn a swept-wing eagle Wappen without the

Garde star, were appointed to wear the Garde star by AKO 28 August 1889.

In 1888, the first pattern Grenadier line eagle Wappen worn by all line

Grenadier Regiments, began to be changed to a swept-wing eagle Wappen

without the Garde star, which had previously been worn by the Garde

Grenadier regiments. The line Grenadier Regts adopted the swept-wing eagle

Wappen and retired the old Grenadier eagle Wappen on the following dates:

1888 by Grenadier Regt. Nr. 4, 1897 by Grenadier Regt. Nr. 2 and 7, 1898 by Grenadier Regt. Nr. 8, 1901 by Grenadier Regt. Nr. 3, and 1913 by Grenadier Regts. Nr. 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, and 12.


77

The features introduced in 1887 proved to be completely unsatisfactory; the

front visors were easily damaged without the leather trim and the loop and

hook system used to hold on the leather chinstrap resulted in chinstraps

being lost. An AKO of 08 January 1891 introduced a new model of

Pickelhaube which attempted to address these shortcomings.

The brass front visor trim was reintroduced and a new and ingenious

system of securing the chinstrap was introduced. The leather chinstrap

was changed to a double buckle and the end of the strap was fitted with a

brass loop with a cut "V". The chinstrap loop was designed to fit onto the

corresponding post, keeping it secure but allowing easy removal.

Unfortunately, this easy removal explains why so many surviving

examples are missing the leather chinstraps today.

Generally, soldiers of the Garde Infantry retained their flat silver or brass

chinscales in garrison and replaced them with the M91 leather chinstrap

in the field.

78

M1891 Preuen Infanterie Regt Nr. 83

1891 also brought about a final reduction in the height of the helmet, giving

it a more domed appearance that remained for the life of the Pickelhaube.

The eagle Wappen was also reduced in size to 115mm and obtained a more

refined shape. For the first time, the gap between the wings and the legs was

now voided. Like it's predecessors, the M1891 utilized threaded bolts on the

reverse to secure it to the helmet shell. The final modification was the

introduction of a new 48mm Kokarde with a large center hole to fit the M91

chinstrap posts.


79

Front Plate

Spike Base

Side & Liner

Rear Spine

Side Post

This period photo shows an issued

M1891 Garde Pickelhaube worn by a

veteran of the Franco-Preuen war.

Note the flat chinscales secured by

M91 posts.


80

A view of the much lower profile of a M1891 helmet.

81

The liner of the M1891 remained virtually the same as for the M1842 helmet.

82

A view of the spike and base on a M1891 helmet. On M1891 helmets, the

spike is considerably shorter than the M1871. This change occurred on the

M1887 helmet.

83

A view of the M1891 reuced size Wappen (front plate) for line Regiments.

The plate continued to use threaded bolts soldered to the reverse of the

plate, and was secured to the helmet shell by internal brass nuts.

84

The rear spine of the M1891 remained unchanged from the M1871 and

M1887 helmets.

85

On the Model 1891 post, the leather chinstrap was changed to a double

buckle, and the end of the strap was fitted with a brass loop with a cut "V".

The chinstrap loop was designed to fit onto the corresponding M91 post,

keeping it secure but allowing easy removal. Unfortunately, this easy

removal explains why so many surviving examples are missing the leather

chinstraps.


To improve ventilation, on the Model 1895 issued Pickelhaube the rear spine

on helmets worn by Foot Troops was equipped with a vent near the base of

the spike which was fitted with a small sliding cover. This sliding cover

allowed the user to increase or decrease the flow of ventilation in the helmet

according to the weather conditions. This sliding vent appears to have been

86

only utilized on Infantry helmets. Artillery and other troops did not adopt this

feature until some time in 1914.

The spike remained the same as the Model 1887 and the Model 1891,

however, the rotating neck was removed.

The soldered bolt and nut system used to secure the front Wappen onto

the helmet was changed to a system for retaining Wappen on the front of

helmets that had been used as far back as 1845 for Bayern (Bavarian)

helmets and 1867 for Sachsen (Saxon) helmets. A soldered loop was

affixed to the back of the Wappen which passed through corresponding

grommetted holes on the front of the helmet. A leather wedge was then

passed through the loop on the interior to keep the Wappen in place.

The Preuen issued Wappen in 1895 were intended to be made out of

Tombak (an alloy made from a combination of copper and zinc) but it

seems that the copper-color was unpopular and they were soon replaced

with Aluminiumbronze which has a very bright brass appearance.

87

M1895 Preuia Infantry Regt 31 Reserve


Front Wappen

Spike Base

Side & Liner

Rear Spine

Plate Loops

1897 Reichs-Kokarde


88

In 1897 a 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.


M1895 shows the vented spike

neck and M1891 leather chinstrap.

89

A side view showing the classic squared shape of the M1895 pattern

Pickelhaube.

90

The liner of the M1895 changed very little, except that the leather on

surviving examples tends to be thinner than older helmets. The helmet now

weighed considerably less and the heavier leather liner was not required.

91

The spike remained the same as the Model 1887 and the Model 1891,

however, the rotating neck was removed.

92

A view of the M1895 Wappen (front plate) for Reserve and Landwehr

Regiments. Note that the Fatherland Bandeau is absent on Reserve and

Landwehr helmet Wappen, replaced by a silver Reserve cross. The obverse of

the Wappen is identical to the M1891, but secured by soldered loops that

pass through corresponding holes on the front of the helmet.

93

A rear view showing the 1895 sliding air vent on the rear spine.

94

A view of the soldered loop that passed through corresponding holes on the

front of the helmet. A leather wedge was then passed through the loop on

the interior to keep the plate in place.

Model 1895 Preuen Landwehr Infantry Regt 31

Model 1895 Preuen Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube for

Landwehr Inf. - Regt. Graf Bose (1. Thringisches) Nr. 31, Altona IX.

Armee-Korps. This helmet still retains the original high gloss finish.

A man could shave looking at his reflection in this helmet; it is

95

exceptionally rare for issued Pickelhaubes to still retain the original high-

gloss of the lacquer as this example does.

*NOTE* This is my first Pickelhaube, obtained in 1976 when I was fifteen

years old!

96

A view of the M1895 Wappen (front plate) for Reserve

and Landwehr Regiments. Note that the Fatherland

Bandeau is absent on Reserve and Landwehr helmet

Wappen, replaced by a silver Reserve cross. The obverse

of the Wappen is identical to the M1891, but secured by

soldered loops that pass through corresponding holes on

the front of the helmet.

A rear view showing the 1895 sliding air vent on the rear spine.

98

A side view showing the classic squared shape of the

M1895 pattern Pickelhaube.

The liner of this M1895 example.

99

The helmet is unit and owner marked "Oelze LIR 31" (Landwehr Infanterie

100

Regiment Nr. 31) in pencil on the rear visor.

Two young soldiers wearing

Model 1895 Pickelhaube. The

tunics are dunkelblau with

Brandenburg cuffs. Note the

white cotton drill-trousers.

101

Model 1895 Preuen Infantry Regt 145

Model 1895 Preuen Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Infantry Regt 145

Pickelhaube for Knigs - Inf. Regt (6. Lothringisches) Nr. 145 Metz, XVI

Armee-Korps. As this was a titled regiment, it was entitled to wear a

parade plume, and therefore the spike top is removable. Unlike the

Line Infantry who went to only leather M91 chinstraps in 1891, Garde

Infantry and some titled Regiments such as IR145 retained flat

chinscales in Garrison and only removed them in the field, where a

leather chinstrap was worn.

103

A view of the issued IR 145 Wappen (front plate). This style of Grenadier

eagle Wappen was not authorized for this Regiment until 1913. The

adoption of Field Grey helmets in 1915 make this pattern all the more

scarce.

104

A view of the reverse of the Grenadier Wappen shows that the loops for

the M1895 pattern Grenadier eagle Wappen are close-together to fit the

holes of the replaced Line Eagle Wappen as of 1913. This indicates the

eagle Wappen was never used on a Grenadier Pickelhaube, and was made

to accommodate the old holes of this IR145 example.

The rear of this example.

106

A view of the side profile. Note the standard rear air vent for a Model

1895, and low, squat shape typical of later Pickelhauben.

The liner remains in good condition.

107

The helmet is unit marked KJR 145 for Knigs-Infanterie-Regt. (6.

Lothringisches) Nr.145 on the rear visor.

108

The spike top is removable to accomodate a parade plume.

109

The preuische Versuchshelm Model 1905/06

In 1905 and into 1906 a new preuische Versuchshelm (Prussian

experimental helmet) was introduced that was essentially a M1895 with

Feldgrau felt covering the top leather shell. The front and rear visors

remained as per the M1895 in black lacquered leather.

Although there were other experimental Pickelhaube produced, such as

the Versuchshelm 1908 (with removable spike, which would later appear

on the M1915) the Versuchshelm Model 1905/06 was the only

110

experimental helmet produced in significant amounts and distributed to

regular units. The fittings were essentially the same as the M1895, with

fittings in silver or gilt dependant on the unit.

M1905 Preuen Infantry


111

Front Wappen

Felt and

Stitching

Side & Liner

Rear Spine

Interior

Construction

Photo used with the kind permission of

Robert Hinesley

The M1905/06 proved to be unpopular with both soldiers and

commanders as it could not be shined for parades or in garrison, which

resulted in being withdrawn from service in 1906.

In 1914 to meet the demands of mobilization, the stockpiled M1905/06

were re-issued to troops and are often confused with Ersatz felt

Pickelhaubes that have had leather visors attached in repair depots.


112

A view of the Model 1905/06 Experimental Pickelhaube profile.

113

The liner is the standard Pickelhaube heavy leather pattern and in

remarkable condition.

114

Note that from the bottom, the Model 1905/06 Experimental Pickelhaube

looks like a standard M1895.

A view of the left rear visor shows how the visors and the ear-leather under

the M1891 pattern chinstrap post, were sewn over the felt covering.

115

The rear M1895 pattern spine and air vent is slightly off-center, revealing the

stitching where the felt covering was sewn together over the helmet shell.

116

A view of the Preuen Line Wappen (front plate) for Mannschaften (Other

Ranks), identical to the Model 1895.

117

A rear view of the helmet.

Carefully looking between the felt and the shell, reveals that unlike a

standard M1895 Pickelhaube, the outside of the shell on these helmets was

not lacquered. A moth hole on the outside also reveals the rough leather of

the outside of the shell, with no lacquer.

118

Flipping the liner up, reveals how the felt cover is sewn between the shell

and the liner.

Ersatz Helmets

119

To meet with the demands

imposed by the Aug 1914

declaration of war, the Germans

began manufacturing helmets

from Ersatz (substitute) materials.

Felt, tin, steel and fiber are the

most common encountered.

Helmets can be found with brass

and silver fittings as

manufacturers used up remaining

parts from pre-war helmets, and

eventually M1915 grey steel

fittings as the war progressed.

Ersatz M1895/97 Preuia Line Infantry Regt

Surviving examples can also be

found with or without front visor

trims, rear spines, or Kokarden.

Please see the Kaiser's Bunker

Pickelhaube Guide for further

information and examples.


M1915 Artillery utilizes M1895 brass

fittings.

120

Preuische Versuchshelm Model 1905/06

Preuische Versuchshelm (Experimental Pickelhaube) Model 1905/06.

In 1905 and into 1906 a new Pickelhaube was introduced that was

essentially a M1895 with Feldgrau felt covering the top leather shell.

Front and rear visors remained as per the M1895 in black lacquered

leather.

121

This Pickelhaube is believed to have been produced in

significant amounts and distributed to regular units with

fittings in silver or gilt dependant on the unit. The

M1905/06 proved to be unpopular with both soldiers

and commanders as it could not be shined for parades

or in garrison, which resulted in being withdrawn from

service in 1906.

122

A view of the Preuen Line Wappen (front plate) for

Mannschaften (Other Ranks).

A view of the left rear visor shows how the visors and the ear-leather

under the M1891 pattern chinstrap post, were sewn over the felt

covering.

123

The rear M1895 pattern spine and air vent is slightly off-center, revealing

the stitching where the felt covering was sewn together over the helmet

shell.

125

A view of the Model 1905/06 Experimental Pickelhaube

profile.

A rear view of the helmet.

126

The liner is the standard Pickelhaube heavy leather pattern and in

remarkable condition. Note that from the bottom, the Model 1905/06

Experimental Pickelhaube looks like a standard M1895.

127

Flipping the liner up, reveals how the felt cover is sewn between the shell

and the liner.

128

Carefully looking between the felt and the shell, reveals

that unlike a standard M1895 Pickelhaube, the outside

of the shell on these helmets was not lacquered. A moth

hole on the outside also reveals the rough leather of the

outside of the shell, with no lacquer.

Beside the grommet for the M1895 pattern loop holding the eagle

Wappen on, is a familiar manufacturer's stamp, "Maury & Co, Offenbach".

129

In 1914 to meet the

demands of

mobilization, the

stockpiled M1905/06

were re-issued to

troops and are often

confused with Ersatz

felt Pickelhaubes that

have had leather visors

attached in repair

depots.


130

In 1915, the end of the Pickelhaube had come; the expensive brass and

German silver fittings on all issued helmets were changed to steel to free

up brass and silver needed for the war effort. The reflective fittings on

pre-war helmets had also proved to be a liability in wartime, so the grey

steel fittings served two purposes. The steel fittings were not painted;

they were chemically oxidized to give them a flat non-reflective finish and

and can be encountered in many shades of grey. The M1915 pattern was

introduced on 28 June 1915, with Bayern (Bavaria) also adopting the

pattern on 11 Nov 1915.

In an effort to make the wearer less obvious and visible, the spike was

now removable. The spike was slotted and fit into a corresponding

bayonet-style lug on the round spike base. Helmets from this period tend

to reflect the war time economy, and are usually made from a much

131

thinner leather than older helmets. The leather liners in particular

suffered as a result of the shortage, and surviving examples can be found

with paper thin, fragile liners.

M1915 Preuia Line Infantry Regt


Wappen (Front

Plate)

Spike Base

Side & Liner

Rear Spine

Side Post

This period photo shows a young

man wearing an issued M1915

Garde Infantry Pickelhaube.


132

A view of the profile of a M1915 helmet. It is essentially identical to an

M1895.

133

The liners of M1915 helmets reflect the war time economy, and are usually

made from a much thinner leather than older helmets. The leather liners on

surviving examples can be paper thin and fragile. The liner on this example is

in mint condition and unissued. The original leather string remains intact

with the knot as supplied by the Quartermaster.

134

A view of the spike base and removable spike on the M1915 helmet. The

spike was slotted to fit into a corresponding bayonet-style lug on the round

spike base. To aid in ventilation, the five vent holes on the spike neck were

retained.

135

As with all M1915 helmets, the spikes for Infantry and cavalry, as well as the

Kugel (ball) tops for Artillery were slotted and fit into a corresponding

bayonet-style lug on the round spike base.

136

The brass and German silver fittings of all M1915 issued helmets were

changed to steel to free up brass and silver for the war effort. The Wappens

continued to be secured using the M1895 loop system.

137

The rear spine on the M1915 was identical to the M1895 helmet, except that

it was now manufactured from grey chemically oxidized steel. The vent with

the small sliding cover was retained.

138

A view of the M91 post, unchanged from 1891, except now made from steel.

Epilogue

Introduced in 1842, the long-serving Pickelhaube was finally replaced

in 1916 by the German Stahlhelm (steel helmet). It had served the

Preuen troops through wars and through peace, and will forever be

connected with the Preuen rise from a small kingdom to a major

world power.

It was worn by generations of soldiers in wars with the Danes,

Austrians, and most notably in the defeat of France in the Franco-

Preuen War which resulted in the unification of the German

states in 1871.

139

The soldiers of a united Germany marched to Armageddon in

1914 wearing the Pickelhaube which was to spell the end of an

era.

With the dissolution of Preuen in 1947 by the Allies, the small

municipality, which grew to a Kingdom and eventually an empire,

moved into history and joined the Pickelhaube it had introduced

as a symbol of a past era.

Model 1891 Preuen Infantry Regt 83

140

Model 1891 Preuen Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube for

Infanterie-Regt. von Wittich (3.Kurhessisches) Nr.83 (Cassel; III Bn

Arolsen) XI Armee Korps.

An AKO of 08 January 1891 introduced the Model 1891 Pickelhaube

which attempted to address the shortcomings of the Model 1887.

The M1891 was reduced in height but retained the spike, base, rear spine

and liner of the M1887. Brass or silver front visor trim was added as well

141

as two new features: a reduced size eagle Wappen and an ingenious system

of securing a new design of leather chinstrap on side mounts. Note that

prior to 1897, only a single Kokarde was worn on the right side (as worn).

The left side had no Kokarde.

As older helmets were constantly modified and updated in the German

confederation, it is very unusual to find a surviving original M1891 that

has not been modified to an M1895 or M1915.

A view of the M1891 reduced size Wappen (front plate) for line Regiments.

The eagle Wappen was reduced in size to 115mm and obtained a more refined

shape. For the first time, the gap between the wings and the legs was now

voided. Like it's predecessors, the M1891 utilized threaded bolts on the

reverse to secure it to the helmet shell with internal brass nuts.

142

The rear spine of the M1891 remained unchanged from the M1871 and

M1887 helmets with no air vent.

143

A view of the spike and base on a M1891 helmet. On M1891 helmets, the

spike is considerably shorter than the M1871. This change occurred on the

M1887 helmet.

144

Like earlier models, the neck of the spike rotates to close the vent holes. This

was a standard feature until 1895.

The Model 1891 introduced a new leather chinstrap with double sliding

buckles with brass loops at each end with a cut "V". The chinstrap loop

was designed to fit onto the corresponding post, keeping it secure but

allowing easy removal.

The M1891 post is longer and sturdier when compared to the posts on the

Model 1895 which followed.

145

1891 brought about a final reduction in the height of the helmet, giving it a

more domed appearance although the front and rear visors are quite large; an

influence from the M1871 and M1887 Pickelhaube. The helmet leather

overall is very thick resulting in a much heavier and robust helmet when

compared to following helmets like the Model 1895.

146

The liner of this M1891 example is made from the standard heavy leather

with 'fingers' for a cord to adjust the fit.

147

The helmet is unit marked in white paint on the interior to "83. R." and

dated 1891.

Could there be any better date on a M1891?

A view of the front interior showing the brass nuts that hold the Wappen

on.

Preuen Garde Infantry Officer

148

Preuen Garde Infantry Officer's Pickelhaube.

This helmet was worn by the following Infantry Regiments in the Garde-

Korps:

2. Garde-Regt. zu Fu (Berlin)



Kaiser Alexander Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.1 (Berlin)

Kaiser Franz Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.2 (Berlin)

Knigin Elisabeth Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.3 (Charlottenburg)

Knigin Augusta Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.4 (Berlin)

Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.5 (Spandau)

150

A view of the Preuen Garde Infantry Officer's front plate. Note the voided

crown and sharp detail.

This pattern of Garde star is found on officer Pickelhauben. Note the star is

quite pronounced and has an enameled center. Including the curvature of

the eagle, the star measures 20mm in depth. As for all Garde helmet plates,

this pattern is found in gilded brass or frosted silver depending on the

Regiment. It must be emphasized that only officers, or men serving in

151

officer positions were allowed to wear this pattern of helmet plate.

152

A view of the side profile. Note how far the Garde star protrudes on the front

of the eagle Wappen.

153

The helmet liner is the officer pattern with a high quality calf-skin

sweatband coupled by a silk skull cap.

The curling of the rear visors is a common occurance on officer

Pickelhaube.

Reserve Senior NCO Pickelhaube for a Preuen Line Infanterie-Regt

Eigetumsstck (privately purchased) Pickelhaube from one of the Line-

154

Infantry Regiments for a Reserve Unteroffizier mit Portepee.

Unteroffizier mit Portepee were the two highest ranks of NCO who were

entitled to wear the Officer's sword knot and wear the special Unteroffizier

mit Portepee Kokarde with seperate metal ring overlay on the Pickelhaube.

The two ranks of Unteroffizier mit Portepee were Feldwebel (Company

Sergeant Major / First Sergeant in the US) and Vizefeldwebel (Company

Warrant-officer / Master Sergeant in the US).

Each infantry Battalion normally had four Feldwebel (one for each

Company) who was the Etatmssiger Feldwebel - 'Der Spiess' who wore

the double rows of NCO braid on the cuffs. The Vizefeldwebel wore the

single row of NCO lace on the collar and cuffs.

156

A view of the officer quality Preuen Reserve Wappen (front plate) with Reserve cross.

This high quality Wappen retains most of the original mercury-gilding with polished

high and low areas such as the feathers to add contrast to the gilding. Unfortunately the

little eagle on the sceptre has literally 'lost his head'. Note the voided crown and that

there is no "Fatherland" Bandeau. Unlike the issued Mannschaften (Other Ranks)

Wappen which carried the Landwehr cross on the chest for Landwehr and Reserve, for

officers and private-purchased eagle Wappen it was different; for Reserve the Landwehr

cross was mounted to the tail feathers, for Landwehr the Landwehr cross was on the

chest. For both, there was no "Fatherland" Bandeau.

157

A view of the tall spike with rounded spike base studs; the spike top is not

removable to accommodate a Haarbusch.

Note the M1871 pattern rounded Perling, which was a private-purchase

option often seen on helmets worn by Privates to Unteroffizier mit

Portepee. This gave rise to the collector's "NCO Perlring" urban-myth,

although in fact, this helmet was worn by a Senior-NCO as indicated by the

Kokarden. In this case, however, the owner simply opted to purchase this

pattern of spike base, it had nothing to do with his rank.

158

Note that the rear spine does not incorporate the M1895 rear sliding air

vent, correct for a private purchase pattern helmet.

159

A side profile of this example which shows the Unteroffizier mit Portepee Kokarde with

the additional silver metal ring with a distinctive diagonal ribbing; this pattern of

Kokarde only worn by Unteroffizier mit Portepee entitled to wear the officer's sword

knot.

The liner of this example is high quality with internal leather sweatband

and silk skull-cap.

The underside of the front visor is exposed leather, with only the rear one

covered in red leatherette.

160

A view of the "Prima Qualltt' (Excellent Quality) inside the leather skull.

161

Model 1867 Baden Infantry

Model 1867 Baden Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube.

This helmet is typical of those worn by some of the contingents in the

Franco-Preuen war. Like a typical M1867 helmet, is has no rear spine as

per the M1867 regulations, but unlike a Preuen M1867 which had a

unique slider to retain the Wappen (front plate) Baden did not adopt this

system and utilized the standard threaded screw posts.

Please refer to "Spiked Helmet Evolution" under "Reference and

Information Pages" on the main index page for details. The helmet is state

marked with a branded Baden shield on the rear visor and carries no other

markings.

163

A view of the Baden Mannschaften Wappen (front plate).

The liner of this M1867 Pickelhaube.

165


The helmet is state marked with a branded Baden shield on the rear visor.

166



167

Model 1895 Baden Leib-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.109 Pickelhaube

168

Model 1895 Badisches Leib-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.109 (Karlsruhe) XIV

Armee Korps Pickelhaube.

As this was a titled regiment, it was entitled to wear a parade plume, and

therefore the spike top is removable.

The Pickelhaube is configured as a correct M1895 with sliding vent on the

rear spine, and leather chinstrap with silver fittings on M1891 mounts.

169

A view of the Baden Leib-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.109 Wappen (front plate) for

Mannschaften (Other Ranks).

170

The liner is the standard Pickelhaube heavy leather pattern and in good

condition.

171

The rear profile of this example, showing the M1895 air vent.

173

A view of the Pickelhaube profile showing the stamped brass Baden Kokarde.

The right rear visor is marked "R.109" and "1913" in two boxes.

The inside is nicely stamped in an oval "Hans Rmer Neu Ulm" and dated

1913 in the center.

174

A view of a group of soldiers from Baden Leib-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.109.

Baden Infantry Officer to Parade

Baden Infantry Officer's parade Pickelhaube. The Yak hair plume and

parade Trichter are removable and can replaced with a spike for all other

orders of dress.

176

A view of the Baden Officer's front plate. Note the voided crown and sharp detail.

A close-up of the waffled Baden Officer Kokarde.

The liner remains in good condition. The curling of the rear visors is a

common occurance on officer Pickelhaube.

178

A Baden Infantry Officer poses for

the camera in this 1889 dated

photograph. Note the Baden Infantry

Officer's Pickelhaube with spike

sitting on the table.

Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92 Senior NCO

Pickelhaube

Eigetumsstck (privately purchased) Pickelhaube from

Braunschweigisches Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92 (Braunschweig) for an

Unteroffizier mit Portepee.

Unteroffizier mit Portepee were the two highest ranks of NCO who were

entitled to wear the Officer's sword knot and wear the special Unteroffizier

mit Portepee Kokarde with seperate metal ring overlay on the Pickelhaube.

The two ranks of Unteroffizier mit Portepee were Feldwebel (Company

Sergeant Major / First Sergeant in the US) and Vizefeldwebel (Company

Warrant-officer / Master Sergeant in the US).

Each infantry Battalion normally had four Feldwebel (one for each

Company) who was the Etatmssiger Feldwebel - 'Der Spiess' who wore

the double rows of NCO braid on the cuffs. The Vizefeldwebel wore the

single row of NCO lace on the collar and cuffs.

180

A view of the Braunschweig Wappen (front plate) for Mannschaften (Other

Ranks) with Totenkopf with Neusilber (nickel-silver) Totenkopf above

"PENINSULA" Bandeau mounted to a Preuen pattern eagle Wappen, with

"FUERST" Bandeau on the chest instead of the Preuen "KOENIG" Bandeau.

Although the Wappen is high quality and private purchase pattern (screw post

retainers) the crown is not voided.

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To accommodate a Haarbusch, the tall spike is removable.

This is important, as if there was doubt about the Wappen being original to

the helmet, with a removable spike top it would limit the helmet as being

from one of the regiments that wore a Preuen Grenadier eagle Wappen or

those with a with a smaller State Wappen overlaid on the eagle who were

entitled to wear a Haarbusche. Only Grenadier Regts 2 to 9 (with the old

Grenadier Wappen), and the other Regts with equally rare Wappen, like IR

91, 93, 94, 95, 96, and 153 would qualify.

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Note that the rear spine does not incorporate the M1895 rear sliding air

vent, correct for a private purchase pattern helmet.

A view of the 51mm Braunschweig Unteroffizier mit Portepee Kokarde

with the additional gilt ring with a distinctive diagonal ribbing; this pattern

of Kokarde only worn by Unteroffizier mit Portepee entitled to wear the

officer's sword knot.

What make these Kokarden interesting, is that they are not cut to fit the

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M91 side posts; they are small-hole private-purchase pattern, and the M91

posts have been placed on the outside.

With the Wappen carefully removed, the 'ghost' becomes visible where it

has sat for over 90 years.

The liner of this example is of the highest quality available with internal

leather sweatband and silk skull-cap.

The underside of the visors, however, are exposed leather, which places

this example in the medium-quality range.

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The paper tag inside between the nuts for the Wappen reads:

OEKONOMIE (Company name)

Kunstinstitut (art institute)

fr galvanische Erneuerung (for electroplating renewal)

Inh. E Lazarus (name of the company owner)

Berlin C. a.d. Spandauerbr. 4-5 (company address)

Kopfweite (helmet size)

Com. Nr. (claim number)

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For interest, here are three straps pattern worn by Braunschweigisches

Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92.

On the left, the dark blue pattern with black cypher worn on the

Braunschweig Polrock (which looked like a Husaren Attila) until 1886

with cord cypher, in the centre the white strap with red chain-stitched and

felt cypher cypher worn after Braunschweig adopted the Preuen pattern

Waffenrock in 1886, and on the right the M1915 strap worn on the M1915

Bluse.

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Model 1895 Preuen (Hannover) Infantry Regt 78

Model 1895 Preuen (Hannover) Infantry Regt 78 Mannschaften (Other

Ranks) Pickelhaube for Inf. - Regt. Friedrich Wilhelm von Braunschweig

(Ostfiesisches) Nr. 78, Osnabrck X.Armee-Korps.

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A view of the issued IR 78 Wappen (front plate). On Mannschaften (Other Ranks)

helmets, the Bandeau is part of the stamping.

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The liner of this M1895 example. The helmet retains the original leather

draw-string.

189

A side view showing the clasic Model 1895 shape.

The issue stamps on the rear visor, "OIR78" and "1904".

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The Waffenrock with matching Krtzchen (cap) and Pickelhaube. This exact helmet

was also worn by 1. Hannoversches Infanterie-Regt. Nr.74 (Hannover) X Armee Korps.

The piping and band on the Krtzchen are in the infantry facing color of red, while the

fittings on the Pickelhaube match the color of the buttons on the Waffenrock. To see the

Waffenrock click Here. To see the Krtzchen click Here.

Model 1867 Oldenberg Infantry Regt 91

Model 1867 Oldenberg Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube

for Oldenburgisches Inf. - Regt. Nr.91 Oldenburg X.Armee-Korps. Unit

marked with a branded OIR 91 on the rear visor.

There were several significant changes made to the M1867 helmets from

the M1860 pattern. These included a round spike base and front visor,

removal of the rear spine, and a new system for securing the front plate.

Please refer to "Spiked Helmet Evolution" on the main index page for

details.

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A view of the M1867 Wappen (front plate) for Oldenburg. Note that for Oldenburg, a

regular Preuen bandeau " MIT GOTT FR KOENIG UND VATERLAND" was used,

superimposed with the Oldenburg Wappen (crest). The M1867 Wappen was secured to

the helmet shell with two flat sliders that replaced the threaded bolts. The plate fit into

corresponding two female slots secured to the front of the helmet.

193

The liner of the M1867 remained the same, but the threaded bolts for

securing the spike base have now been replaced with split brads bent back

against the inside of the helmet.

194


The helmet is unit stamped OIR 91 on the rear visor.

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(Saxon) Reserve

Infantry Fhnrich (Officer-Candidate)

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Sachsen Reserve Infantry Fhnrich (Officer-Candidate) Pickelhaube.

Externally, this helmet is identical to an officer's helmet except that it

lacks the officer's Perlring around the neck of the spike. The helmet is

identifiable as a Fhnrich (Officer-Candidate) due to the fact that only

Fhnrich (as non-commissioned officers) were authorized to wear an

officer's Kokarde on an Eigentums-helm (privately purchased helmet).

The spike on this example is extremely tall, being 105 mm (4 1/4 inches)

from the bottom of the ring around the spike base to the spike top.

198

A view of the Sachsen Reserve officer's pattern Wappen (front plate).

According to regulations, the reserve cross should be silver. On this example

however, the cross is painted black and appears to be original to the helmet.

199

A rear view.

200

A side view of this example showing the tall spike and that the lacquer still

retains its high gloss finish.

Sachsen officer pattern Kokarden were unique in that they had smooth

edges, not serrated as on other state Kokarden.

201

The helmet liner is the officer pattern with silk skull and leather sweat

band.

Note that the unlike a true officer pattern helmet, the undersides of the

visors are leather and are not covered in green and red leatherette.

203

A matching Sachsen (Saxon) Bezirks-Kommando Nr. 69 Waffenrock and

Pickelhaube. In this configuration the man would have been a Sachsen

Reserve Infantry Fhnrich (Officer-Candidate) with the rank of Sergeant. To

see the Waffenrock click Here.

Model 1871 Wrttemberg Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube. This

helmet is a fine example of an Eigentums-helm which is a Pickelhaube that

was privately purchased by an individual. An Eigentums-helm could be

purchased by any soldier dependant upon the wealth of the individual,

but they were usually purchased for wear by Einjhrig-Freiwilliger (One

year volunteer) and Fhnrich.

This helmet was worn by the following two Regiments in the XIII Armee-

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204

Korps:

Grenadier Regt. Knigin Olga (1.Wrttembergisches) Nr. 119, (Stuttgart)

Grenadier-Regiment Knig Karl (5. Wrttembergisches) Nr.123 (

Ulm)

205

The rear of this example, which has a typical mounted-troops smooth rear

spine without air vent.

The "Extra" pattern of privately purchased liner is identified by having

squared off tongues to the liner. The leather is a higher quality and it was

felt that this style of liner afforded more comfort. This pattern of liner was

also worn by officers until 1880. This pattern is also commonly

encountered on Eigentums-helm.

206

Model 1895 Sachsen (Saxon) Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks)

207

Pickelhaube for Knigl. Schs. 12 Inf. - Regt. Nr 177, Dresden XII.

Armee-Korps.

A view of the rear of the helmet. Note the M1895 sliding rear vent on the

rear spine.

208

The liner of this M1895 example. As is typical for a Pickelhaube, the rear

visor has curled somewhat from age. Hey! You would be too if you were

almost 100years old!

209

The helmet is Army Korps and unit marked "BAXII 18" on the rear visor

.

210

A view of the Sachsen pattern rounded Kokarde. The Reich's Kokarde on

the opposite side is also rounded

211

Model 1868 Bayerische (Bavarian) Jger

Battalion Raupenhelm

212

Model 1868 Bayerische (Bavarian) Jger Battalion Raupenhelm. The thick

leather body has a large wool "Raupe" (literally: caterpillar) on the top

and was worn from 1800 to 1886 undergoing numerous modifications.

This pattern of Raupenhelm was worn by any one of the 10 Bayerisches

Jger Battalions.

Unlike a Pickelhaube where the visors were lacquered and then are sewn

onto the outside of the lacquered shell, on Raupenhelm the visors were

sewn to the shell under the impressed edge after which the entire helmet

was lacquered. The lack of visible sewing on the exterior for the visors

gives the appearance that the helmet is one piece.

A view of the Model 1868Bayerische

(Bavarian) Jger Battalion Raupenhelm

213

profile.

A view of the two-piece Bayern (Bavaria) Wappen (front plate) worn from

1868 to 1886. The Wappen is held on with loops that pierce the helmet

shell, and are retained onto the shell with leather wedges.

This identical system was adopted by Preuen (Prussia) in 1895 for her

issued Wappen.

214

A close up of the green Jger wool "Huppe" on the left side of the helmet

above the single Bayern Kokarde. Infantry Regiments did not carry the

addition wool Huppe; a colored wool Huppe was carried by Jger (green),

Schtzen (green), Sanittskompanien (red), and Chevaulegers (white).

The silver Bayern Kokarde at one time would have carried a center blue-

215

painted ring, however, over time, the paint has fallen off of this example.

The leather chinstrap was riveted onto a brass end piece, which is

wrapped around a brass ring held in the mouth of a lion head on each side

of the helmet.

216

The rear of the helmet reveals the brass air vent on each side of the shell,

to allow the helmet to ventilate. Note that wool Raupe goes half way

down the rear visor.

217

The liner of the issued M1868 helmet was heavy leather with rounded

"tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit. Note

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that the "tongues" on leather Raupenhelm liners flare out at the ends,

almost in a teardrop shape. Except for some slight age damage to a few

areas on the edge, the liner is still intact.

The brass loops with leather wedges used to hold on the wool Raupe and

Wappen are visible inside.

The inside of the shell carries a wonderful cloth tag identifying the last

wearer as Jger Sellmeier K.b. 4. Jger Batallion 4. Compagnie.

The remnants of the name tag of the man who was issued this

Raupenhelm before Jger Sellmeier is visible underneath.

219

Between the folded tabs of the air vents is another cloth tag with

"4C1877" (4th Comany 1877).

220

The superb illustration to the left by Darko Pavlovic shows a Bayern Jger.

From: Solka, M. (2005) German Armies 1870-71 (2) Prussia's Allies (Men at

Arms 422).Osprey Publishing, Midland House Oxford.

The collar and cuffs on the pale-blue Waffenrock was green for all Bayern

Jger.

221

Old friends together again; a Model 1868

Bayerische (Bavarian) Jger Battalion

Raupenhelm and a Bayerische Model

1837 water bottle. To see the water bottle

click Here.

Evolution of the Imperial German

Krtzchen and Schirmmtze

Model 1888 Preuen

Landsturm Tschako

Model 1888 Preuen Landsturm Tschako.

The M1888 Mannschaften (Other Ranks)

http://www.kaisersbunker.com/dunkelblau/equipment/dbe27.htm

222

Tschako is identifiable by the single vent on

the side to aid in ventilation.

When the Landwehr adopted the Pickelhaube

1881, the Landwehr Tschakos were retired from

service, so this Tschako would have been

originally Preuen Jger or Train until it was

replaced by a newer model.

In 1914, old Tschakos were dusted off and issued

to the Landsturm in order to meet the needs of

mobilization. This example was upgraded in 1914

by removing the Preuen eagle Wappen and

adding a Landwehr Wappen and Reichskokarde.

In 1916 the old Tschakos were finally retired

when the Landsturm finally adopted the

Pickelhaube.

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A view of the Preuen Landwehr Mannschaften

Tschako Wappen (front plate) worn by the

Landsturm in 1914. As is typical for these old

Tschakos converted for Landsturm use, the wider

holes where the Preuen eagle Wappen was

mounted have been filled with leather and new

slots cut into the front to accommodate the

Landsturm Wappen. The Wappen is secured to

the Tschako with twin loops with leather wedges,

similar to the M1895 Wappens.

A view of the rear profile of this example.

224

The liner of a Preuen issued Mannschaften

Tschako is essentially identical to a

Pickelhaube.

225

A view of the M1888 Mannschaften Tschako side

profile.

226

A Landsturm soldier

from Landsturm

Battalion #39 taken in

August 1914.

Sachsen (Saxon) Officer's Manver

Tschako.

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Sachsen (Saxon) officer's Manver Tschako. This pattern of lightweight

Tschako was only worn by officers in: Schs. Schtzen (Fsilier)-

Regiment Nr.108, Kgl. Schs. Jger-Batl. Nr.12 and 13, and for a short

period, Kgl. Schs. Jger-Batl. Nr.15.

Unlike standard Sachsen Tschako which are made from pressed felt

covered in black cloth, the officer's Manver Tschako was made from

pressed fiber and covered in Wachstuch (oilcloth).

A front view of this example. As the officer's Manver Tschako was

only for field use, the Schtzen or Jger Wappen was not worn.

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A view of the Sachsen officer's Manver Tschako profile. At all times, a

black horse-hair plume was worn on the left side of the Tschako.

Grometted holes on the left side of the Tschako allowed an elastic cord to

hold the black horse-hair plume in place.

Note that this pattern of Tschako does not carry ventilation vents on the

sides.

This photo shows a close-up of the sewing and texture of the Wachstuch

(oilcloth) on the rear of the Tschako. Note that as is typical for any

Wachstuch headgear, the surface has crazed from age

.

The liner is a simple, yet relatively deep calf-skin sweatband without a

silk skull cap.

Although the shell is made from fiber, the interior has also been covered

in Wachstuch (oilcloth).

Note also that the front visor is leather with a sewn leather edge,

identical to the sewn edge on an officer's rear visor on a Pickelhaube.

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Unlike a standard Tschako which would

have sewn leather roundels overtop of the

leather chinstrap ends, a peculiar feature of

Sachsen officer's Manver Tschako are the

Schirmmtze Kokarden which hold on a

thin leather chinstrap. This unusual feature

is normally found on all surviving Sachsen

officer's Manver Tschako.

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Model 1867/09 Sachsen

(Saxon) Schtzen NCO Tschako

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Model 1867/09 Sachsen (Saxon) NCO Tschako from Kgl.

Schs. Schtzen (Fsilier)-Regiment Prinz Georg Nr.108,

Dresden, XII Armee Korps. Sachsen NCOs above the rank

of Unteroffizier wore gilt NCO lace around the collar and

cuffs of the Waffenrock, however, only Sachsen NCOs

for Jger, Train, and Schtzen also wore the NCO lace on

the top of the Tschako as well. Unlike most Sachsen

(Saxon) pattern Tschako which are made from pressed

felt covered in black cloth, this example is an

Eigetumsstck (privately purchased) and is made of

leather covered in black cloth. Sachsen Schtzen

Tschako carried a black horse-hair plume worn on the

left side of the Tschako but at no time did they wear the

cloth Feldzeichen (Field Badge).

Note that this Sachsen Schtzen (Fsilier)-Regiment

Prinz Georg Nr.108 Unteroffizier carries the gilt NCO

lace around the top of the Tschako as well as around

the collar and cuffs of the Waffenrock.

Unlike the other Infantry Regiments of the German

Reich who wore a Dunkelblau (dark blue) Waffenrock

with light blue collar and Swedish cuffs, the Sachsen

Schtzen wore a dark green Waffenrock with black

collar and cuffs piped in red.

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A view of the Sachsen (Saxon)Schtzen Tschako profile.

As this example is an Eigetumsstck (privately

purchased) the leather visor which closely re

Imperial German Headgear 1860 to 1910

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