Headgear: historically significant antique caps, kepis, top hats, chapeaus, sailor
caps, slouch hats, helmets, 1872 Army campaign hat, WWI soldier-painted
camouflage helmets, WWII helmets, original hat parts,
helmet plates, buttons, including 1872 and 1881.
Many countries. All periods. Military and
civilian.
All items listed below
are offered & sold as collector items only, and are not recommended
or guaranteed for wear
Items
are not listed in chronological order...please scroll through the entire
section.
NOTICE:
This section has some rare and hard to find hat parts. This is
material we have acquired over the past 40+ years. Now that we
have slowed down to retirement status, we'll be adding
more as it comes out. You may find just the right item to fill in that
missing part on your helmet(s). Check the "Insignia" section also as
there is a crossover of hat plates/insignia for hats.
1H -
M1872 U.S. ARMY CAMPAIGN
HAT.
More Photos, Click Here
Probably the rarest, most coveted piece of regulation U.S. Army
headgear in existence, for the advanced collector.
Desired as much today as it was reviled, disparaged and criticized
when it was issued during the brief period of its use. I have
not seen more than four in my 46+ year career, and this is the best. No wonder they are so rare, (the Smithsonian was only able
to examine four for their headgear book), they were claimed to have
worn out in a few weeks in the field. Custer’s men wore them on their
famous expedition to the Black Hills in 1874, and can be seen in all
its variety of forms in the many well known photos of that
expedition. See McChristian’s
“The U.S. Army in
the West” pg. 146 & 152 for two views. Condition is excellent. The
brim retains its original shape, still has stiffness, and the edge is
not chipped or cracked. There is a double row of stitching at the
edge. At the fold there are some short cracks front and rear on the
brim. It retains all 4 original hooks and eyes, though the thread on
one is almost entirely loose. Fine ribbed black headband, plus an
original, faded Cavalry hat cord (Civil War). Inside the crown divot,
along the center fold, toward the rear, is a 1 ¼” frayed crack.
Medium dark brown leather sweatband appears to have been re-stitched
into place. It shows some use and light surface wear. The previous
owner and I both have not completely un-folded the hat, but have kept
it carefully flat. When resting on a flat surface, the left and right
brims rise from the center a bit like wings, giving a very shallow
“V”. Nice clean specimen of an Army hat, which in all probability,
you will never see offered again. $9,500
2H - C.1840 AMERICAN GRENADIER-TYPE
CAP PLATE. Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
Figure 164 in
the Smithsonian Book on "American Military Insignia 1800-1851" by
Campbell & Howell, Bulletin 235. Quoting the book, this is one
of the most beautiful examples of the die-makers art in the National
collections (also the largest). On a sunburst over clouds is an
eagle grasping the top of the Federal shield, superposed on a panoply
of arms and colors. Stamped in thick sheet brass. A full 7
1/2" wide, 5 1/2" high. Well over 20 years ago, we adopted this
insignia as our business logo, and had it copyrighted. Shortly
thereafter we countered a small supply of these plates in Mint
condition, which we had never seen on the market before and have never
seen one since. We bought them all, and put them in storage,
occasionally selling one or two. We would like to consider these
original, but finding a small quantity of 1840's plates all in mint
condition, strains credibility. Thus we assume these are rare,
early reproductions from an unknown source. They are exact
duplicates of the referenced Smithsonian example. A gorgeous
plate for a gift price. Shown is a representative
example. All are about the same condition. Each...$35
3H - TRANSITIONAL 1881 PATTERN FOOT OFFICER'S DRESS
HELMET.
More Photos, Click Here
Appears to be re-modeled from the M1872
and is fitted out for enlisted use. Typical transitional use during
1881-82. Some discussion in Chappell's "Brass Spikes...", pg. 60.
Very nice condition showing some age. Profile has much longer visors
front and back than true 1881's. Pressed cork body with black wool
fabric cover, tan fabric covering to interior, very good medium brown
leather sweatband, and faded leather facings to undersides of visors.
Circular brass crown fitting stamped with Horstmann Bros & Co. plus
interior has diamond-shaped white paper label, midway up rear.
Virtually identical to label used on re-cut '72 helmets, but lacking
mention of remodel. Sweat
stained. Exterior has crossed rifles side
medallions, enlisted staff eagle on front and brass spike/base. No moth
damage. About excellent. $450
THE FOLLOWING INDIAN
SCOUT HORSE HAIR PLUMES HAVE COME OUT OF LONG-IN-STORAGE BOXES OF
ORIGINAL MATERIAL. THERE ARE NO MORE, AND ONCE THESE ARE GONE, THAT'S
IT! We may be the only website in the country who has these
originals.
4H (B) - ORIGINAL INDIAN SCOUT HORSE
HAIR PLUME.
More Photos, Click Here
For the M1881 Dress Helmet. If you have a helmet
in need of this or wish to make one up, this plume will put you over
one of the biggest obstacles to success. The last complete
helmet we sold was about 8 years ago, and sold for $2800. Since,
the price only went up. The plume and the cords account for 90%
or more of the cost, the value of each roughly equal. Here is a
chance, never to be repeated once our couple of plumes are gone.
If you think you'll ever want an Indian Scout helmet, now is the time
to buy. These plumes are mint. They have alternating stripes of
deep red and white horse hair 18 1/2" long. Still has thread
wrap from the factory. Star grommet at top. Have only
three. Each...$750
4H (C) - ORIGINAL INDIAN SCOUT HORSE
HAIR PLUME AND EAGLE HELMET PLATE.
More Photos, Click Here
Fabulous find
for the M1881 dress helmet. Guaranteed original. This
irreplaceable set has been in storage close to 40 years, and just came
out as we are in the process of retiring. Consists of a good as
new Indian Scout, red & white horse hair plume, AND a mint eagle
helmet plate with the silver crossed arrows applied to the shield
(absolutely original!!). Eagle has crossed sabers behind the
shield and all three original brass wire loops fasteners on back. The
last complete M1881 Indian Scout helmet we sold was about 8 years ago,
and it went for $2800. Today the price would be at least $1000
higher. The plume and the cords account for at least 90% of the
value, the value of each being roughly equal. Here is a chance
never to be repeated once our couple of plumes are gone. If you
think you'll ever want an Indian Scout helmet, to put one together or
finish one you have, now is the time to buy. And this unique
set, which includes the eagle plate with crossed arrows, is
irreplaceable...never to be repeated. $1,025
5H - RARE M1881 9TH INFANTRY
OFFICER’S SPIKED HELMET.
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Press formed helmet body covered with quality black wool fabric. Face
has officer’s model stamped brass eagle insignia with applied shield
with silver “9” on front and crossed rifles behind. Top has brass
spike and base. Sides have at top, shield shaped hook bases which
holds the draped bullion braid front and back. At bottom are brass
crossed rifle medallions. Top rear has shield shaped hook base for
chin chain, not included. Exterior condition excellent. There are
only a couple ¼” or less moth holes in fabric. Interior has leather
sweatband, very good, showing wear; loose in a few spots, but is not
noticeable. Leather lining to underside of
front visor has front to rear crack from drying (now treated).
Underside of rear visor has triangular 1 ¼” piece of lining out, also
from drying (now treated). Crown lining is maroon fabric with faded
“BENT & BUSH/BOSTON” dealer name (famed military outfitter from before
the Civil War). Officer’s name on piece of paper tucked behind
sweatband. Been years since we had an officer’s model.
$1,495
6H - ORIGINAL M1864 LIGHT ARTILLERY SHAKO
PLUME HOLDER.
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AKA
Ringgold Helmet. Also for use on the 1832 Leather Infantry Cap and
1833 U.S. Dragoon Leather Cap. From a stash of rare hat parts we
accumulated over 45 years. 3 1/8”
tall. Thin stamped brass with what appears to be a very thin tin
plating which actually has a pale gold hue. The ordnance bomb is a
second piece affixed to the upright leafy shaft. Backside of ball
once had a wire loop fastener soldered at center. Simple repair.
Super rare part. Guaranteed original. Design began in the 1830’s and
plume holder probably saw varied militia use in addition to the
Regular Army Light Artillery. $35
7H - U.S. G.I. COMBAT HELMETS.
More Photos, Click Here Korean War vintage.
Small lot released by Rhode Island National Guard. Excellent
condition.
90% finish.
No liner.
Incredible price never to be repeated once these are gone.
(Helmet shown is a representative
example...all comparable condition, some with more rubs than others).
Each ... $20 Buy three or more...$16 each
8H - EXCELLENT POST-WWII U.S. COMBAT HELMET.
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Complete with liner.
Korea-Vietnam era. Liner has O.D. web and same color interior, with
cloth texture visible. Liner exterior is more green. Interior of
liner has yellow #42 at lower edge at area. Metal shell has rim joint
at rear. Metal shell has rim joint at rear, flexible chin strap loops
and excellent sand texture exterior. No chin strap for liner or
shell. Exterior finish only has a few rubs. $50
10H - ORIGINAL M1881 HELMET PLUME
HOLDER-SPIKE BASE.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
representative example
shown
Acorn and leaf pattern. Stamped brass. Mint. Unused.
From a stash of rare hat parts accumulated over 45+ years. May have minor storage tarnish. As
they come from the supply...Each...$15
11H - ORIGINAL NICKEL-SILVER M1881
HELMET PLUME HOLDER & SPIKE BASE.
More Photos, Click Here
Rare part. Used
by some militias and Army bands. Same design as regulation brass part
(acorn and leaf design) with slight variation. Top has slotted hole
for quick release of spike or plume. Reverse has original two wire
fasteners. $20
12H -
STRIKING
1914 FRENCH OFFICER’S HELMET OF THE CUIRASSIER REGIMENTS.
More
Photos, Click Here
Throwback to a few hundred years prior when such large and flamboyant
headgear was generally in fashion. Helmet body is sheet iron once
polished bright, now grey, and shaped to have a long lobster-tail rear
visor, as did the German Jaegers. Additionally, the helmet body was
given an elaborate brass comb with rich, ornate, raised surface
patterns, topped in front with a female face with serpents in her
hair, all this topped with a long black horsehair plume which falls
well past the tail of the helmet. Further, the front of the helmet is
covered with yet another stamped brass plate featuring a flaming bomb
at center within a large wreath. Further yet, there are circular
brass side medallions holding functional, leather chin straps faced
with graduated brass scales. A small brass ball/plume is missing from
above the lady’s head, and a small vertical plume is missing from a
small mount on the left side. Overall excellent. Steel grey. Brass
tarnished. Hair excellent/dusty. Under visor leather veneer cracked
in front – half gone in back. Leather liner very good, just needs a
bit of oil. Remarkably showy and historic WWI French headgear sadly
archaic when adopted. Our
reference is "Military Fashion", by John Mallo, G. P. Putnam's Sons,
N.Y. 1972. Page 224, item 143 appears identical to our example, and
is identified as 1914 Officer of Cuirassier. $1,850
13H - ULTRA-RARE M1881 OFFICER'S BUFFALO HAIR HELMET
PLUME. Click on each thumbnail for
larger view A custom
application of hair plume by an officer – as seen in several examples
in Langellier’s book “Hats Off”, page 92. The eagle plume holder had
the top center washer removed, which was intended to center the rod,
which allowed the lower, decorative netted end to fit directly into
the plume holder top. The cap rod was dispensed with, because this
plume incorporates the threaded rod and brass nut. The threaded rod
is heavier than the standard M1881, fitting the M1872 specs. Plume
may be as early as 1872. The tapered, netted end is 2 ½” long.
Beyond this is 17” of black buffalo hair. Condition is excellent.
Plume is extremely rare…I believe it signifies staff. Haven’t had
another in at least 25 years. $295
14H - SPLENDID C.1840 MASSACHUSETTS
HELMET PLATE.
More Photos, Click Here
Among the best I
have, and very valuable to restore an otherwise fine helmet, lacking the
front plate. Multi-layered, the face is highly contoured stamped
brass. At center is an inky blue enameled disc of sheet iron with brass
insignia distinctive to Massachusetts…a raised, armored arm wielding a
sword. All this is encircled with raised, inscribed border, superposed
against a six-pointed sunburst. All this is set against a silk pleated
cockade in faded pink and white. The raised inscription has a Latin
motto “MONSTRAT VIAM” plus the date 1741 (date of the unit’s
organization). Excellent condition. Few nicks in the enamel. Also
lacks one of the two wire loop fasteners on back. 3 ½” in diameter,
including cockade. $295
15H - VERY
FINE M1902 U.S. ARMY QUARTERMASTER CORPS ENLISTEDMAN'S VISOR CAP.
More Photos, Click Here High
quality, navy blue cap body with two parallel buff bands around the
headband. Very fine and fresh. No insignia.
Crescent leather visor with leather cap strap. Visor shows a
bit of aging to the top finish. Has staff eagle side buttons.
Fine leather sweatband and crisp black fabric crown lining with
silver logo of dealer.
$165
17H - WWII ITALIAN AFRICA CAMPAIGN
PITH HELMET.
More Photos, Click Here Comparable to the German pith
helmets for the same theater. Press-formed cork body with thin khaki
fabric covering in and out.
Metal domed vent at top of crown; couple tiny chips. Fabric pouch on right side to
take the base of a feather plume, (not included).
Narrow russet leather chin strap which is probably fairly
fragile, but looks new. Sweatband looks new – unused.
Overall condition is unused, just showing hints of storage.
$125 We
have a few, all in comparable condition
18H - ORIGINAL NEW YORK
M1881 HELMET FRONT PLATES.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
I believe New York had the
largest state militia, equal to or larger than the Regular Army. They
used the same spiked helmet as the Regular Army did, except the front
plate was different…designed with New York-specific motifs.
Stamped brass, 3 5/8” tall. Consists of a central shield with
the New York state seal, over a ribband with state motto “Excelsior”
surmounted by a spread eagle sitting on a half globe. From our
stash of hat parts accumulated over 45 years.
A. Gilded brass – likely an officer’s plate. Has four small
holes in shield where regimental numbers were. Beautiful plate.
Lacks the two wire loop fasteners on back. Simple solder job.
$20
B. Minor tarnish on crisp brass. Shield has number "10" for
10th Regiment. Reverse has original two wire loop fasteners.
$25
C. Minor tarnish on crisp brass. Shield has number “2” for
2nd Regiment. Reverse has original two wire loop
fasteners. $25
D. Minor tarnish on crisp brass. Shield has number "2"
for 2nd Regiment. Reverse has original two wire loop fasteners.
$25
19H - C.1820-40's EAGLE PATTERN SHAKO SIDE BUTTONS.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
Excellent
original pair. Unusual 8-sided form with circular sunburst border,
and spread eagle/shield design at center. Stamped brass with brass
wire fasteners on center back. 1 11/16” wide. Light, even patina.
Stock pattern for wide use. $85
20H - WWI AIR CORPS HAT CORD.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
On Layaway Woven silk, black and a bluish green; double loops with sliding keeper
at center front, and each loop ending in front in an acorn with black
cap. Excellent, lightly used condition. S & S prices these at $75.
$45
21H -
WWII NAZI DOUBLE DECAL FIRE
POLICE HELMET.
More Photos, Click Here
Fire police square dip shell with aluminum comb, and two 7-hole vents
each side. Excellent red/white/black swastika decal on right and
police eagle swastika decal on left, both excellent. Shell paint 95%
in matte’ black. Comb also painted and has typical denting along top
and paint loss there and along ridge. Full original liner – russet
leather. Very good, flexible, dry. Some flaking along lower edge and
some wear/age to finish. Chin strap broken on one end, but complete
with buckle and clasp. $285
22H - ORIGINAL ANTIQUE HELMET BRAID,
KNOTS & TASSELS.
More Photos, Click Here
White. C.1840+. A
design used over a lengthy period. There’s a bell crown (C.1840) shown
with a nearly identical set of braid, knots & tassels, except the bell
crown added a second, larger row of braid. See page 40, of Sturbridge
Village’s book “New England Militia Uniforms and Accoutrements”
(essentially Bill Guthman’s collection) for the picture. This is a
really nice, clean, original set, complete. Just wants rings to
fasten to helmet. Braid prox. 19” long. Pendant knots and tassels
prox. 10” long. Will throw in a pair of wire rings which should work
well, but appear late. $150
23H -
ABOUT
MINT MODEL 1881 U.S. CAVALRY DRESS HELMET.
More Photos, Click Here
Uniquely distinct style among the entire evolution of American
Military headgear. Now practically impossible to replace once
sold. This is for enlisted Cavalry. It is complete, and in
essentially new condition. Beautiful black pressed felt body.
Brass front insignia of spread eagle with crossed sabers. Top
has eagle plume holder and base. Sides have brass crossed saber
medallions. Complete with chin strap (universally missing), and
orangey yellow horsehair plume AND matching hat braid AND original
matching coat cords, flat knots and tassels. Leather sweatband
looks unused. Inside it has the Horstmann contract stamp "W. H.
HORSTMANN CO.(partially legible)/Contract March 4th, 1899" (the last
number slightly smudged). An extremely fortunate find; a retiree sold this out
of his lifetime collection. $2,595
24H - CIVIL WAR ENLISTED ARTILLERY
HAT CORD. Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
representative example
shown
Un-issued condition, absolutely original. Red worsted wool double
cords. Goes through keeper in front and ends in large tassels of the
same material, some still retaining the thread which holds the fringe
bunched together, others without. From a stash of rare hat parts
accumulated over 45+ years.
Each...$65
25H - CIVIL WAR ENLISTED INFANTRY
HAT CORD. Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
representative example
shown
Un-issued condition,
absolutely original. Double loop cords of worsted wool are a
pale blue. They go through a small, barrel shaped sliding keeper in
front, of the same material, and have tassel ends. Some still retain
the thread which holds the fringe bunched together, others without.
Infantry hat cords are extremely rare – nearly as rare as Cavalry.
From a stash of rare hat parts accumulated over 45+ years. Have only three...Each...$85
27H -
WWII
JAPANESE NAVY FIELD CAP.
More Photos, Click Here
Late War navy blue cap in what I believe to be cheap abrasive feeling
synthetic fiber. Each side of crown has two air vent metal grommets.
One grommet lost. 4 grommets at rear vent to adjust size. Stiffened
crescent visor, folded as usual down middle. Front of cap has machine
embroidered gold anchor on black fabric backing, sewn to cap.
Simulated leather sweatband, from stiff paper. Cap is lined in
material essentially the same as the exterior, but grey in color.
Generally excellent overall. Wasn’t worn long. Don’t get much Navy
material. Most of it was sunk. $250
28H - WWII
JAPANESE NAVAL FIELD STYLE CAP.
More Photos, Click Here
Light olive, with oval patch insignia sewn to front. Same material as
the hat, with yellow paint vertical anchor. Couple tiny chips out. Hat
shows no use but has some age and handling. Late War. Very thin, quite
abrasive feeling fabric – some sort of cheap, synthetic fiber. Hat body
is made in two layers, the inner is the liner, and is tan. Sweatband is
dark brown paper. Each side of crown has three small vent eyelets –
rust brown. Rear bottom has adjustment vent with three eyelets each
side (one gone). Stiff paper chin strap and metal studs on side.
Believe this is for the Marine Assault troops. Couple small spots of
sweatband sewing open. $275
29H - WWII JAPANESE FIELD STYLE CAP FROM
THE MITSUBISHI FACTORY.
More Photos, Click Here Issued to factory workers in the
important wartime factory. Has a sewn on Mitsubishi logo insignia on
front, the same design as still used today. Hat is in new condition,
and was just discovered by a collector in Osaka Japan. Olive color.
Medium weight, late war materials. Very cheap, brittle chin strap (type
of cardstock) mostly gone. Just has ends at the side studs. Simulated
leather (brown finished cloth) sweatband in new condition. Great rarity
in Japanese gear. Seldom see Japanese home front material.
$125
30H -
WWII
GERMAN ALLIES HELMET – RARE BULGARIAN ANTI-AIRCRAFT.
More Photos, Click Here
One-piece Luftshutz Gladiator style with large multi-color insignia
decal on left side. Source said the lettering on top of the seal stands
for Anti-Aircraft use, and the rest is the Bulgarian seal. Shell color
is dark grey. Paint is evenly worn, with some wear-thru in a ring
around the upper crown, where another helmet rested on it. Decal is
worn to about 80% - thinned rather than anything missing. Lacks liner.
Rare. $125
31H - M1881 HELMET EAGLE FRONT
PLATES. Guaranteed original. These are from a
long-in-storage supply of various and rare hat/helmet parts.
We will be adding more original specimens in the near future, so
please check back.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
A. Infantry Helmet Eagle Front Plate. Enlisted model.
Very good specimen. Eagle with shield at center with crossed
rifles behind. Medium dark patina. Two of the three brass
wire loops on back are missing and new need to be soldered on. Two
tiny holes were punched through wing tip to allow a thin wire to serve
as a replacement fastener. Plate size is prox. 4 1/2" tall.
$35
B. Infantry Helmet Eagle Front Plate. Enlisted model.
Fine specimen. Eagle with shield at center with crossed rifles
behind. Light tarnish. Choice condition. Full set of
wire loops on back. Prox. 4 1/2" tall. $45
C. Infantry Helmet Eagle Front Plate. Enlisted model.
Fine specimen. Eagle with shield at center with crossed rifles
behind. Light tarnish. Excellent condition. Two of
three wire fasteners still remain. Prox. 4 1/2" tall. $40
G. Infantry Helmet Eagle Front Plate. Enlisted model.
A bit thinner than most, suggesting later manufacture near the end of
the model's use. Could also simply be a contractor selling less
quality goods to the government (did that really happen??!!).
Standard design of eagle with shield at center with crossed rifles
behind. Fairly bright brass. Shield has two tiny holes which
once held regimental number or branch insignia. Missing two arrow
tips. Also, all brass wire fasteners gone from rear. Just
solder short lengths of brass wire on...that's all the originals were,
and they came off easily. Prox. 4 1/2" tall. $25
I. Cavalry Helmet Eagle Front Plate. Enlisted model.
Very fine. Eagle with shield with crossed sabers behind.
Bright brass with slight tarnish on front. Shield has three small
holes where branch or regimental insignia went. Has full set of
brass wire loop fasteners on back; upper left is wobbly. Nicely contoured for helmet.
Prox. 4 1/2" high. $60
L. Officer's Infantry Helmet Eagle Front Plate. Top
quality. A bit heavier than most. Has separately applied
shield/crossed rifles, with a silvered number "71" applied to face of
shield. Crisp detail. Dark patina. Has full set of
wire loop fasteners on back. Prox. 4 1/2" tall. Very
difficult to find. $150
32H -
NEAR MINT PATTERN OF 1872 ARMY OFFICER’S CHAPEAU.
More Photos, Click Here
A gorgeous specimen, entirely regulation, but purchased by an officer
of the Massachusetts Militia, and to individualize the hat, the eagle
button was replaced by one of the Mass State Seal…the only variance
from Federal Regulations. Sold by the famed military outfitter BENT &
BUSH, Boston, whose name is silver embossed (worn) in the crown, lined
with crimson satin. Lush black beaver hat. Gold bullion tassels
front and rear. Bullion panel on front side with gilt M1872 eagle
emblem at top and aforementioned button at bottom. Very lush black
ostrich feathers over top. Light brown leather sweatband showing
slight use. Very fine condition. Extravagant historic headgear
seldom seen anymore. $850
33H - C.1840 U.S. MILITIA HELMET
POM-POM INSIGNIA.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
See figure 165 in Campbell
& Howell’s “American Military Equipage” (Smithsonian Bulletin 235).
Shows this exact insignia but with a different facial design. Affixes
to the front of the crown, just in front of where the pom-pom base
enters the top of the crown. Stamped brass. 1 ½” high. Two wire
fasteners on back. Raised letters on front “1/GR”. Original.
Unused. Have two...Each...$10
34H - SUPERB C.1820-40 LAUREL WREATH
HELMET FRONT PLATE.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
A stock pattern used widely
on the many leather helmet styles of the period. Large and handsome,
prox. 5” across, 4” high. Meant to surround some distinctive unit
insignia. Stamped brass with mellow lustrous patina. Reverse has all
five original wire fasteners. Valuable restoration part.
$150
35H -
WWII
GERMAN ALLIES HELMET – RARE BULGARIAN ANTI-AIRCRAFT.
More Photos, Click Here
SOLD
One-piece Luftshutz Gladiator style with marvelous multi-color
insignia decal on left side. Obtained a few of these many years ago
and had them stored since. My notes remind me that the source said
the 2 ¼” high decal top lettering stands for Anti-Aircraft use. Rest
of decal (shield shaped, divided into several different color panels
with rampant lion at center) is the Bulgarian seal. Helmet shell
color is semi-gloss grey. Very good overall, with some paint
wear-thru and some thin rust discoloration encircling the side of the
crown, from where another helmet was stacked on top. Excellent decal
with some rub on both ends of the top lettering. Liner like German
WWI – three lobes with two fingers each, mounted on leather band.
Excellent condition. Even comes with original issue form loose in
crown. $245
36H - M1881 HELMET PLUME
HOLDER ROD. The following are from an old lot of
long-in-storage inventory. Decorative stamped brass disc 1 1/4"
in diameter with thin brass threaded rod extending from the underside,
set in solder. There is great variety in these, having been made
by several contractors and for two models of the dress helmet.
Below is a selection. Dimensions will be given.
Click on each thumbnail
below for
larger view
A. This rod measures 5 3/4" long, 0.132" thick, 1 5/8" of
threaded end, with 26 threads per inch. No nut provided.
$25
B. This rod measures 5 5/8" long, 0.13" thick, 1 3/4" of
threaded end, with prox. 32 threads per inch. No nut provided.
$25
C. This rod measures 5 1/2" long, 0.125" thick, 1 3/4" of
threaded end, with prox. 32 threads per inch. Included is plume
support washer and brass nut. $30
D. This rod measures 5 1/2" long, 0.132" thick, 1 1/4" of
threaded end, with prox. 26 threads per inch. Nut not provided.
$25
E. This rod measures 5 1/2" long, 0.124" thick, 1 5/8" of
threaded end, with prox. 32 threads per inch. Nut included.
$28
F. This rod measures 5 1/2" long, 0.132" thick, 1 1/4" of
threaded end, with 26 threads per inch. Includes plume support washer
and nut. $30
37H(A) - M1881 CAVALRY HORSE HAIR HELMET PLUME.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
Orangey yellow.
Just about like new. 14” long. Lovely form. Have a few, all the
same, from an old lot of material long in storage.
Each...$45
37H(B) - M1881 ARTILLERY HORSE HAIR
HELMET PLUME.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
Scarlet. Excellent condition. Nice form.
Lustrous color. Very scarce. From the star grommet, the
plume is 14" long. Far more rare than cavalry, and the only one
we have. From an old lot of material long in storage.
$125
38H - M1881 CAVALRY HELMET HORSE HAIR PLUME.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
Un-issued,
unused original. From the last contract for this helmet style before
new uniforms were adopted in 1902. This left some surplus parts which
old-time dealers acquired 40+ years ago. Orangey yellow.
Horsehair still has string wrap from the factory. Some have a
short paper wrap as well. Have several. Each...$35
39H -
DESIRABLY DIFFERENT 4th CORPS WWI U. S. CAMOUFLAGE HELMET.
More Photos, Click Here
Sale
Pending
From my
personal collection of over 20 years. The shell is painted in segments,
front to rear, as if you were cutting a melon. No black lines between
segments, which are painted in dark camo tones including maroon brown,
olive, mustard, grey, dirty white and grey. Center of crown has 2 ½”
diameter blue/white 4th Corps patch. Overall little nicks,
rubs but strong paint. Age muted. Very good liner. Complete fair chin
strap, broken at one end. Exceptional painted helmet. $295
40H - ANTIQUE CAVALRY YELLOW HORSE HAIR HELMET PLUME.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
Dates 1880’s-1900. Came with large lot of Army hat parts from
1870-80 period. Plume is mint condition with the hair still
wrapped with cord put on at the factory. Unfortunately I have no
idea what hat/helmet used this plume – perhaps a militia design.
Orangey yellow, exactly the same as M1881 Cavalry plumes, and is 13”
long. Has brass cap end with long brass wire loop to go into
slot. Have only one.
$10
42H - C.1840-50's MILITIA HELMET
PLATE.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
Definitely of
military composition, employing cannon and flagstaff/spearheads
radiating from a beaded center and superposed on a sunburst
background. Has an applied (from the back) black enameled sheet iron
disc at center with raised brass regimental number “5”. One of the
most popular stock patterns of the period I know of. 2 ¾” across.
Seen often on dress caps, perhaps more so than on shakos, by this
time. Lustrous light patina. Reverse lacks one of two wire
fasteners. Valuable restoration piece. Often mistakenly thought to
date post-Civil War. Not so. Exact specimen is shown in Campbell &
Howell’s “American Military Insignia 1800-1851” (Smithsonian Bulletin
238), page 86. $125
43H - C.1840-50's MILITIA HELMET
PLATE.
Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
Definitely of
military composition, employing cannon and flagstaff spearheads
radiating from a beaded center and superposed on a sunburst
background. Has an applied (from the back) black enameled sheet iron
disc at center, with raised brass regimental number 6 or 9. One of
the most popular stock patterns of the period I know of. 2 ¾”
across. Seen often on dress caps, perhaps more so than on shakos by
this time. Nice gold tone color. Reverse lacks one of two wire
fasteners. Where the one wire is missing, the soldier punched a tiny
hole through the solder and brass, and pushed a pin through, to work
like the missing wire. Valuable restoration piece, often mistakenly
thought to date post-Civil War. Not so. Exact specimen is shown in
Campbell & Howell’s “American Military Insignia 1800-1851”
(Smithsonian Bulletin 238), pg. 86. $125
44H - UNBELIEVABLE
and DIFFERENT
U. S. WWI DECORATED HELMET, SOUTH PACIFIC MOTIF.
More Photos, Click Here From my personal collection of over 20
years. This one is elaborately
decorated, but by a method never seen before.
The entire crown of the helmet is covered with what appears to be
a half coconut (but larger and smooth), and the exterior of the shell is profusely carved with a crest
at top which appears to be a national insignia, with the sides wreathed
by floral sprays. Top has a
central shield with several symbols, under a spread eagle surrounded by
draped flags. The faces of
the carvings are gloss black. Background
is rust brown. Very neat.
Strikes me as South Pacific (Hawaii?, Philippines?).
Rear of shell cracked from shrinkage.
Excellent liner and chin strap. Quite an attractive novelty,
made up for a G.I. in some exotic land. $175
45H - M1872 ARMY DRESS HELMET EAGLE
FRONT PLATE.
Click
on thumbnail photos for larger view
A rare and
valuable piece. A fine, heavy example with some overlaying thin brown
patina, showing what appears to be gilt underneath. Consists of spread
eagle within wreath, with shield at center. Shield has two small holes
for regimental number. Reverse originally had nice short brass wire
fasteners. Now, three are missing. About 4 ½” tall. $275
46H - M1872 ARMY DRESS HELMET EAGLE FRONT PLATE.
Click
on thumbnail photos for larger view
Almost certainly
worn during the transition period between the use of the M1872 and the
full introduction of the M1881. During the interim period, many 1872
helmets had to be modified the best way they could until the new helmet
bodies and accompanying hardware and insignia became generally
available. One of the things they did was modify the M1872 eagle face
plate to more resemble the M1881. They did this by removing some or all
the wreath. Examples of such modifications are covered in “Hats Off” by
Langellier. These plates are fairly substantial sheet brass. This one
was thinly plated in nickel or silver, now muted and showing good deal
of tarnished brass showing through. Upper wreath neatly removed so
eagle looks like M1881. Lacks one wire fastener on back. Guaranteed
original. Neat example of important transitional use of insignia.
$95
47H - TRANSITIONAL M1872 TO M1881 HELMET EAGLE FRONT PLATE.
Click
on thumbnail photos for larger view
In 45 years as a
militaria dealer, have I ever seen another. Suggested in the drawings
of 1878-79 submitted to the miles board of the proposed “new” helmet.
The eagle shown is a cut down M1872 with the eagle still facing left. I
believe the helmet plate offered here is one prepared for the early
pattern 1881 helmet, before the true M1881 plate was designed. This is
a M1872 eagle plate lacking the entire wreath which ran from the tips of
the olive branch, up and over the eagle’s head, and down, joining the
arrow tips. Further, these wreath pieces were never part of this plate
- never removed. It looks to have been made without the wreath. Heavy
metal. Nice detail. Traces of gilt. Four heavy wire loop fasteners on
back. Prox. 4 ½” tall. Fascinating example. Made from scratch as a
true transitional. $145
48H - ORIGINAL M1872 ARMY DRESS HELMET
EAGLE FRONT PLATE.
Click on thumbnail photos
for larger view
On Layaway
A rare and valuable piece. A fine, heavy example.
Consists of spread eagle within wreath, with shield in center.
Dark patina to brass. Fine overall condition. Has all original
heavy wire fasteners on back. About 4 1/2" tall. $275
49H - C.1810-40 HALF SUNBURST HELMET
PLATE.
Click
on thumbnail photos for larger view
Could be
Dragoons, or any number of other type units, as this is a widely used
stock pattern. Unit-specific insignia were added at center. This one
has the letter “S” applied with wire fasteners. Campbell & Howell’s
“American Military Insignia 1800-1851” (Smithsonian Bulletin 238) has at
least three examples illustrated. See pages 82-88-89. Marvelous, heavy
and handsome. 4 ½” wide. Retains original wire fasteners on back.
Valuable restoration part. $175
50H - C.1810-40 HALF SUNBURST HELMET
PLATE. Click
on thumbnail photos for larger view
Half sunburst
plate was a stock pattern and saw universal use quite early. The
insignia applied to the plate, heavy entwined letters “GB” or “BG”, date
its use to about 1840. Campbell & Howell’s “American Military Insignia
1800-1851” (Smithsonian Bulletin 238) shows at least 3 examples on pages
82-88-89. Approximately 4 ¾” wide. A handsome plate darkening a bit
from tarnish. Reverse has three of four original wire fasteners.
Valuable restoration part. $175
51H - ORIGINAL C.1840-50's MILITIA
HELMET PLATE. Click
on thumbnail photos for larger view
One of several
similar designs and variations which were widely adopted during the
brief two decades prior to the Civil War. It was a period during which
changing style dictated headgear smaller and lighter than the earlier
classic leather shakos. While still large or tall, many came to be
called caps. This handsome plate features the familiar black enameled
sheet metal disc applied from the rear, set within a raised brass border
superimposed on a 6-sided sunburst. At center are ornate entwined
letters (pick your sequence) NGP – PNG – NPG. These are in heavy brass,
applied with wire fasteners. 3 1/8” tall. Lacks one of two wire
fasteners on back. Valuable restoration part. $95
52H -
WWII OFFICER'S ARMY AIR CORPS OVERSEAS CAP.
Click
on thumbnail photos for larger view
Size 7. Very nice,
used condition. Name inside is “DIBERT – 3920” $15
53H - ORIGINAL WWII U.S. CAMOUFLAGE HELMET
NET WITH ATTACHED CAMOUFLAGE HELMET BAND. (Helmet shown not
included)
Click
on thumbnail photos for larger view Rare
originals, the first we’ve ever had. Worn on the M-1 helmet with all
the netting ends sandwiched between helmet body and helmet liner…or, the
rear netting end could be left hanging out and loose in the rear to
cover neck and shoulders. Medium forest green knit net roughly 28”
wide, in a cross shape. Condition as when issued. When the
few we have are gone, that's it. Each…$35
57H - SOLDIER PAINTED WWI ARMY COMBAT
HELMET and HIS DOG TAG.
More Photos, Click Here
From
my personal collection of over 20 years. This one is identified by the
original WWI soldier’s dog tag which comes with helmet, plus information
that his uniform had collar discs with crossed rifles 62F. Exterior
shell divided into equal thirds, painted with brick red-white-blue.
White front with large full color 48 star flag on staff over
red-white-blue letters “U.S.A.”. Bright and clean. ½” hole punched in
rear visor, for hanging on nail. I’ve seen this before. Liner and chin
strap near new condition. Probably painted during occupation. $250
58H - GOLD BULLION BRAID FOR M1872-81
OFFICER'S DRESS HELMETS.
Click
on thumbnail photos for larger view
These braids are
identical except for length. Depending on the size of your helmet(s),
one piece may well be too long, and simply shortened, and the other may
be short or just right. Aside from the possible need to shorten one,
the only thing necessary to mount them is to join the ends (sewing) and
attaching to helmet with brass rings. Tarnished but still has good
metallic flash. Will handsomely complete at least one helmet and
possibly two. One is 29+” long; the other is 39”. Condition quite
good. Almost impossible to obtain for restoration. Guaranteed
original. A few of the very last restoration supplies we have left,
which were accumulated over 45 years. $165
61H - PRIME SOLDIER PAINTED U.S. ARMY CAMO
HELMET.
More Photos, Click Here
Post November 1944, possibly as late an issue as Vietnam. Has the rim
butt in the rear (Nov ’44), removable chin straps, and hinged chin strap
loops. Camo pattern superbly executed and hand painted. Design most
reminiscent of Vietnam. Definitely saw use…shell paint 95%, but rim’s
edge is worn to metal. Liner is WWII, by Westinghouse Electric. Many of
the metal fittings are lightly corroded. Retains leather chin strap.
Generally good. About as fine an example of this genre’ of camo as
we’ve seen. From my personal collection of over 20 years. $225
64H -
WWII FULL COLONEL’S COMBAT
HELMET.
More Photos, Click Here
SOLD
Totally original and from our collection of over 20 years. Shell was
smoothed during period of use, and repainted standard dark O.D. Then a
stylized eagle was painted on front. A couple strips of masking tape
were applied horizontally to the rear, on which the officer’s name was
stenciled lightly. This has faded to nearly illegible. Shell paint at
least 95%, with rim worn bright. Front butt joint. Hinged chin strap
loops. Complete O.D. chin strap. Extremely excellent liner by the Mine
Safety Appliances Co. Retains the leather chin strap. $350
67H - PARACHUTE HELMET LINER, VIETNAM.
More Photos, Click Here
American
G.I. regulation issue. Piece of side webbing has contract information
and what looks like the date 21 July 1961 (possibly 1967). Interior
very good showing use. Has the “Y” straps on each side but no chin
cup. Outside has standard O.D. paint. $15
72H - FINE SOLDIER-PAINTED WWI U.S. ARMY
CAMOUFLAGE COMBAT HELMET.
More Photos, Click Here
From my
personal collection of over 20 years. A very fine example of the type
of helmet painting seen most frequently. The exterior shell is divided
into several irregular areas, divided by a hand painted black border
line. Each area is in-painted with a camo color, including: mustard
yellow, maroon red, orangey red, dark green, mud green, mud brown, brick
brown. Paint shows little wear and subtle patina only. Has very
good-excellent liner, but chin strap is gone. Interior has overall rusty
finish. $195
73H - WWII JAPANESE COMBAT HELMET.
More Photos, Click Here
Sale Pending
I judge this as a last ditch – rather than Homefront. Very heavy shell
with excellent mud brown original finish. From my collection of over 20
years. Front has two painted figures in white, with a ¾” wide,
8-pointed brass star or stylistic mum at center. Inside has thin fabric
liner with black painted stiff paper sweatband. Short portion of khaki
web neck sling remains. Getting very scarce. $195
74H - A NICE GROUP OF
ORIGINAL M1881 (few M1872) HELMET SIDE BUTTONS. All guaranteed
original, from our stash of historic hat parts we've collected for over
40 years.
(Click on each thumbnail photo
for different views)
   
A. Original M1881 Helmet Infantry Side Buttons. Classic
crossed rifles on disc. Brass wire fasteners soldered to back side.
Excellent. Guaranteed original. About 1” in diameter. Pair…$18
(representative samples shown)
   
B. Original M1881 Officer’s Infantry Side Buttons. Classic
crossed rifles on disc, with chin chain hook below, and brass wire
fasteners soldered on the back. Guaranteed original. Excellent. About 1”
in diameter. Pair…$18
(representative samples shown)
 
C. Original M1881 Helmet Cavalry Side Buttons. About good as
new. Crossed saber design. Flat, narrow brass strips soldered on back
for attaching. About 1” in diameter. Guaranteed original. Nice,
inexpensive early insignia for collectors and proper parts for
completing helmet. Pair…$35
 
D. Original M1881 Helmet Musician’s Side Button. Rare and
the only one we have. Has the musician’s lyre on front. Brass wire
fasteners on back. Slight tarnish. About 1” in diameter. Guaranteed
original. From our stash of historic hat parts we’ve collected for over
40 years. Only one button. $22
 
E. Original M1881 Helmet Subsistence Corps Side Buttons.
About mint condition. Guaranteed original. Has crescent moon design on
front. Narrow sheet brass strips soldered to rear for fastening to
helmet. Only one pair… $35 Have one
single button…$15
 
F. Original M1881 Helmet Quartermaster Corps Side Buttons.
About mint condition. Guaranteed original. Has crossed feather/key
design on face. Reverse has narrow, flat sheet brass fasteners soldered
on. About 1” in diameter. Only have three pair…Each set…$35
 
G. Original M1881 Helmet Artillery Side Buttons. Very
scarce. Guaranteed original. Crossed cannon design. Narrow, flat brass
strips soldered to reverse for attaching to helmet. Excellent, with some
darker tarnish to spots on face. About 1” in diameter. Only one pair.
$35
 
H. Original M1881 Helmet Signal Corps Side Buttons. About
mint condition. Guaranteed original. Crossed flags on front. Narrow,
flat sheet brass strips soldered on back for fastening to helmet. About
1” in diameter. Only one pair. $40
 
I. Original M1881 Helmet Infantry Side Buttons. Crossed
rifle design. Excellent. Fasteners on back are narrow sheet brass
strips. Have several pair, slightly different condition than those
shown, but all comparable. Each pair…$20
 
J. Original M1881 Helmet Hospital Corps Side Buttons. Good
as new. Guaranteed original. Has silvered cross applied on the face.
Flat brass strips on back for attaching. Great for building a helmet or
adding to a insignia collection. Have two pair. Each…$35
 
K. Rare M1872-1881 Helmet Side Buttons. There is a range of
differing opinion on the original use and intent of this side button.
It has the raised, what was called the “Infantry Bugle” insignia during
the Civil War, and from 1872 to 1874. Somehow, this design was, at a
later time, associated with Army Bands. My personal opinion is that
this design of a side button was intended for early use on the helmet
for Infantry between 1872-74 at least, until the crossed rifles were
adopted as a modernized substitute. This same insignia designated
Infantry during the Civil War and up to 1874, and I believe it would
have been a difficult transition to alter the designation of the horn
from Infantry to Band. Whatever your opinion is, we have only one
original pair. Excellent, with brass wire fasteners on back. $40
 
L. Original M1881 Officer’s Helmet Artillery Side Button.
Interesting variation for reference collection or insignia enthusiast.
Nicely made with crisp crossed cannon, upside down from the normal
button. Has usual chin chain hook and brass wire fasteners on back.
Excellent. Only one button. $15
 
M. Original M1872 Officer’s Helmet Artillery Side Button.
Good also for the M1881, but originally made for the M1872, as indicated
by the lined background. Crossed cannon have muzzles up. Excellent
condition with wire fasteners on back and chin chain hook. Only one
button. $18
 
N. Original M1872 Officer’s Helmet Artillery Side Button.
Interesting variation for reference collection or insignia enthusiast.
Good also for the M1881 officer’s helmet, but originally made for the
M1872 – identified by the line background. This one has the crossed
cannon upside down. Excellent condition with wire fasteners on back and
chin chain hook. Only one button. $18
 
O. Original M1881 Helmet Engineer Side Button. Rare and the
only one we have. Has engineer castle design on front. Narrow, flat
sheet brass fasteners on back. Some tarnish on high spots on front.
Only one button. $28
 
P. Original M1881 Officer’s Helmet Infantry Side Button.
Only one. Has the standard crossed rifles on the face, and chin chain
hook, and flat sheet brass fasteners on back for attachment to helmet.
Excellent. The only officer side buttons we have with the sheet metal
(rather than wire) fasteners. Only one button. $10
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