Uniforms
& Clothing Items (Headgear follows
below)
All items listed below
are offered & sold as collector items only, and not recommended or guaranteed for wear
1U - TWO WWII
PATRIOTIC BOY'S NECKTIES IN ORIGINAL BOX Click on
each thumbnail photo for larger views
Neat item from the period. Dark blue. Each has a young
fellow in uniform portraying the motto which is printed under each.
One is "Tell it to the MARINES" and has the fellow marching. The
other is "KEEP 'EM FLYING", and has the fellow in an Air Corps uniform,
seemingly running along with a plane in the sky. One tie looks
unused (Flying) and the other possibly shows some use and some small
moth holes. They are in their original box, which only had two
ties originally, even though there are four depictions on the cover; US
Navy, US Army, Marine, and Air Corps. The lid has a few rubs and
one edge is flat. Neat display item. $45
2U - WWII BULLION SHOULDER PATCH FOR
THE 12TH AIR FORCE Click on thumbnail photo for larger views 3 5/8" wide.
Good medium dark blue fabric (no mothing) as background. High
relief bullion border, darkly tarnished. Wings have 95% gold sequins; looks like
it's missing only two. Silver bullion on star, tarnished black. Nice
original patch. $95
 3U - EXTREMELY RARE 1870-80'S ENLISTED
ARTILLERY AIGUILLETTE - U.S. ARMY More Photos,
Click Here Don’t recall ever
encountering another similar enlisted specimen. This is an
aiguillette which indicates that it was attached to the underside
of the shoulder knots, and draped across the chest...having nothing to
do with the helmet. In this case, or time period of transition
from the 1881 helmet, which had a segment of braid and cord going from
the helmet to become chest cords, many hat cords were cut in half,
separating the lower half (now chest cords) from the upper half (hat
cords). The use of an aiguillette with the 1884 jacket seems to be
mostly confined to band members, and probably a few enlisted personnel
holding special positions on the staff. Most wearer's of the 1884
jacket would probably not have been wearing the aiguillette, though for
display, it probably could be justified as representing an important
enlistedman. See Langellier’s “More Army Blue”, pg.
199 for the general form and color. See also pg. 189. For the fixture
on the aiguillette which attaches to the flat bar under an epaulet or
shoulder knot, see pg. 138, an officer’s model using the same slotted
brass fitting. From the brass shoulder fitting to the end of the two
brass “pencils”, is 43”. From the shoulder fitting, two braid loops
hang, which go under the shoulder, plus two braid cords which cross the
chest, attach to two buttons and hang straight down to the “pencils”.
Condition is excellent, with a few scattered snags. Guaranteed
original. Ultra rare. $165
4U -
WWII "KEEP 'EM FLYING" BOY'S NECK TIE
Click on
thumbnail photos for larger views
This is a boy's tie. I can tell you that finding these is
virtually impossible...or at least it was, during the 50 years we
searched for great WWII Home front items. This one is a
maroon-red, with the motto and picture, 5" up from the bottom.
Very good condition with couple little frayed spots on the edge, just
below picture. $45
 5U - HIGH SPANISH NAVAL OFFICER'S
UNIFORM COAT - WORN DURING THE SPANISH AMERICAN WAR IN THE PHILIPPINES &
OBTAINED AS A WAR SOUVENIR BY AN AMERICAN SOLDIER IN 1898-1899 More Photos, Click Here (Keep
in mind, it is rather dark these days in Alaska, so the red shots are a
bit washed out). A fabulous piece with excellent provenance.
Superb Navy blue wool body with gold lace edgings, red turned back
collar and full red lining, including the tails. I place the rank above
Captain in the Spanish Navy based on comparison with two period photos
of the highest Naval officers in Manila during the Spanish American
War. Rank is judged, according to my references, by the number of gold
lace bands that face the cuffs, and the number of stars. The Spanish
Minister of Marine, Ramon Aunon y Villalon is shown with the two lace
bands and two stars. Admiral Mantojo, Commander of the Spanish Asiatic
Squadron destroyed at Manila Bay wears three bands and three stars (plus
some extra embellishment). This coat is either for a rank between
Captain and Admiral, or logic says it is for an Admiral (3 stars). We have signed provenance showing ownership from me
back through one other owner, to the man, whose father, a member of Co.
I, 51st Iowa Vol. Infantry (Philippine Service) left the
impression that he, the soldier, got the uniform (confiscated, purchased
or traded) from the Royal Palace in Manila. The prior owner said the
uniform has been on public display at a few important events and
solicited to be in others. Included in the written provenance provided
is a photo of the uniform in a public display, plus a magazine also
showing a display. Judging by the high rank of the uniform, finding the
identity of the original owner seems feasible. Coat is heavy, and
strikingly beautiful. It is double breasted with four, almost gem
quality gold plated buttons with crown over anchor, on each side of the
chest. There is one small button on one cuff, missing on the other cuff
(the only button missing). The gold lace is excellent in general, with
some surface wear in the neck area, facings and waist. There are 12
(complete set) of buttons across the back and down the vent. There are
pockets in the tails. Shoulders have loops to hold epaulets.
Definitely a key piece in our collection.
Names of prior owners and soldier identity provided to buyer. $2,750
6U - ORIGINAL M1902 U.S. ARMY BREAST CORD Click on thumbnail photo for larger views For the enlisted
dress tunic. Red for Artillery. Essential to properly finish off the
tunic. Prox. 54” long, consisting of double worsted wool cord which
ends at one end with netted ball with button loop, and runs the other
way into parallel rows of braid, more cord, then ending in twin,
circular flat knots and tassels. These cords drape across the chest and
loop over right shoulder. Excellent, lightly used example. Now very
scarce accessory. Guaranteed original. Have a few, all in similar
condition. Only...$35 each
7U - WWI UNIFORM COLLAR DISC Click on each
thumbnail photo for larger view Artillery crossed cannon. Under
a glass, the finish appears like a thin paint-like substance over the
bronze, rather than a chemical finish. About 20% is flaked.
Reverse has screw back. No nut. $5
 8U - INDIAN WAR
INFANTRY ARTIFICER BRASSARD Click on
thumbnail photo for larger views
Used from 1870's up through the Spanish American War. They
are heavy wool felt and measure approximately 5 x 7". White sledge hammers against blue/black
background. Excellent condition. Some small moth nips, and a few areas
of chewing to the upper layer, but is not easily visible. Has tiny holes
around the edges, probably having been once sewn on. Only have one.
$20
9U - INDIAN
WAR INFANTRY PIONEER BRASSARD (SPECIALTY PATCH) Click on each thumbnail photo
for larger views Used from 1870's up through the
Spanish American War. Large crossed axes cut out of center of
approximately 5 x 10" dark navy
blue wool, backed with white wool. Mint originals. Have a few. Each ... $8
10U - ARTILLERY FULL DRESS SHOULDER LOOPS
Click on thumbnail photo for
larger views
Spanish American War, Philippine Insurrection & Boxer Rebellion,
1898-1902. Heavy wool. Deep red tops. Navy blue
undersides. Type which is sewn into seam where arm meets the shoulder.
Has button hole at opposite end. Have two pair, with different
lengths.
A. Dark Red. Shows use and some age toning. Sewn into
jacket, would be 4 1/2" long. Pair...$8
B. Rich Red. Shows less age. Longer than the ones
above. 5 1/2" long, sewn into jacket. Pair...$15
11U - ARTILLERY SHOULDER LOOPS OR TABS
Click on thumbnail photo for
larger views
Issued for the Spanish American Wars, Philippine Insurrection & Boxer
Rebellion, 1898-1902. Made in the color designating the
branch...in this case, red for Artillery. These are detachable
style and have little wire hooks & eyes and button hole. Have a
few original examples. Usually worn on khaki fatigue jackets.
Sold in pairs - some small variations expected. Approximately 4
3/4" long. Heavy twilled cotton. All excellent and have been
worn. Each pair...$15
12U - CAVALRY SHOULDER LOOPS OR TABS
Click on thumbnail photo for
larger views Issued for the Spanish
American War, Philippine Insurrection & Boxer Rebellion, 1898-1902.
Made in color designating the branch. Detachable - most held on by
little hook & eye and button hole. Usually worn on the khaki
fatigue jacket. Have a few original examples. Sold in pairs - some
small variations to be expected. Approximately 4 3/4" long.
Cavalry yellow. Heavy twilled cotton. All have been worn.
Have a few needing couple wire hooks replaced. Full hooks...$15
pair Hooks needing replacement...$8 pair
13U - TWO VARIETIES OF
INFANTRY SHOULDER LOOPS OR TABS
Click on thumbnail photo for
larger views From the Spanish
American War, Philippine Insurrection & Boxer Rebellion. Have only
one example of each variation. All excellent, heavy twilled
cotton.
A. White on top, khaki on underside. Fastened to shoulder of coat by
wire hooks & eyes, the eye on the coat. Also has button hole which
took brass eagle button on upper end. Rare variety. About 4"
long. $15
B. Khaki top, khaki bottom. Would be identical color as
jacket, or close. Type that was sewn on, at the place where arm
meets jacket body (very common arrangement). Has button hole at
other end. Typical Infantry. $15
14U - 1902 SPECIALIST PATCH SET Click on
thumbnail photos for larger views 2 1/4
x 4 1/2". Khaki. Has cut out center with white backing on
which a maroon caduceus is embroidered on. Excellent and rare
pair. $25
15U - 1902 INFANTRY ARTIFICER PATCH Click on
thumbnail photos for larger views
2
1/4 x 4 1/2". Light blue wool sledge hammers on dark blue.
Single. Mint. $6
 30U - WWII JAPANESE SOLDIER'S WINTER
WEIGHT TUNIC More Photos, Click Here Type 98, dated 1940. Light olive wool.
White twilled cotton lining. Crisp ink stamped markings inside
left chest. Type marking and date among the other markings.
4 pocket, 5 button front. Buttons are coffee with cream colored
plastic. Has hip vent and single belt loop at left. Collar tabs
are orangey red with three yellow stars (Senior Private).
Approximate measurements are 36" waist; 29" sleeve (from middle of
collar to bottom of sleeve); 26" long (from top of collar to bottom of
coat). Very
excellent condition. Guaranteed original. $225
 31U - WWII JAPANESE SOLDIER'S WINTER
WEIGHT TUNIC More Photos, Click Here Type 3, dated 1944. Heavy olive wool body with off-white
cotton lining. Clear ink stamped markings on inside left chest.
Pocket behind markings and one below. In upper pocket I discovered
a folded 5 yen paper note, a prox. 3 x 3" thin paper note with Japanese
handwriting on it, and a pair of sergeant-major collar tabs.
Normal 5-button, 4 pocket front. Hip vents. No belt loop.
Never had one.
Approximate measurements are 36" waist; 29" sleeve (from middle of
collar to bottom of sleeve); 27" long (from top of collar to bottom of
coat). Overall fine condition showing little use.
Guaranteed original. $225
Headgear
NOTICE: Within the listings below are some rare and hard to find hat
parts, kepi/hat insignia and hat plates. This is material we had acquired over 40+ years. You may find just the right item to fill in that
missing part on your hat or helmet.
1H - WWII BOY'S KHAKI OVERSEAS HAT Click on each thumbnail
photo for larger view Laid flat it
is 10" front to rear. Front left side has reddish printing "Keep 'Em
Flying" under a picture of a flying C47. Very good condition.
Normally the motto and plane are faded and gone, but this one is good. $30
2H - FINE U.S. ARMY MEDIC'S COMBAT HELMET
Click
on each thumbnail photo for larger view
C.1944 and later. Hinged style chin strap holder. Rear
rim butt joint 1944 & later (see paragraph 3, page 23) and chin strap buckle
1944 & later (see page 24, mid-page) of Reynosa's "The M-1 Helmet".
Sandy surface finish with splendid hand stenciled circular red cross
insignia on each quadrant (4"
in circumference)...some
nice subtle age to the cross insignia. Excellent used
liner with no torn straps. Fits well. Shows some use with
some shallow unevenness at crown. No paint loss. As fine as
any we've ever had. In extreme demand. Found in Tucson
Arizona. I really like this one! $425
 3H - "V" FOR VICTORY CARDSTOCK HAT More Photos, Click Here Folds
flat. Red/white/blue with large silver "V" stapled on. Red/white/blue
crepe paper accordion top. 11 1/2' wide across front x 4 3/8" tall to
top of "V". Excellent condition, with some age darkening and minor
wear. $35
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!
 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
two left. (One is
Sale Pending) Each...$295
 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. $650
 5H - WWII GERMAN AIR FORCE ENLISTED
VISOR CAP METAL INSIGNIA. Click on each thumbnail
photo for larger view
Sale Pending This is the large stamped aluminum
wreath/national cockade in front of spread wings. Full original brass prongs on back.
Fine condition. Guaranteed original. $25
6H
- RICH LOOKING LADIES RHINESTONE PATRIOTIC SPREAD EAGLE DRESS HAIR
COMB Click
on thumbnail photo for larger views Fantastic; our photos don't
do it justice. 3" x 5", curved. Made entirely of tortoise shell, or
simulated tortoise shell. I believe simulated, perfectly done. Along
the top is a full width spread winged eagle done entirely in "diamond"
rhinestones with separately applied brass head and talons. Very
handsome, very excellent and very high quality. No stone is missing.
Dates 1930's when eagle jewelry was quite in vogue, leading into WWII
when use of the subject peaked. Became part of a heavy hairstyle. $75
This would make a wonderful gift for the
lady in your life!
  7H - ORIGINAL CIVIL WAR CAVALRY OFFICER’S HAT INSIGNIA. Click
on each thumbnail photo for larger view 3¾” wide, stiffened black
velvet backing with applied, stamped brass crossed sabers with false
embroidered, embossed surface. Held to backing by bent wires.
Has a tarnished “7” above, standing for 7th Cavalry, though I
can offer no evidence it designates THE 7th Cav of a few
years later – though the insignia would be the same. Fine
condition. Intended to be sewn to a slouch hat. A bit dusty.
$345
8H - WWII & LATER U.S. NAVAL ENGINEERS COMBAT HELMET
Extremely rare insignia (part stenciled, part hand painted), of a spread
eagle perched on a vertical anchor crossed with a rifle. Has an
arch over the primary insignia which stands overall 5 1/4" high.
Very dark color to the shell, apparently from the application of a thin
stain prior to the application of the insignia. Shell appears to
have had good deal of use prior to the stain/insignia application.
Very good look. Has light overall wear, consistent over shell and
insignia. Surface texture is somewhat irregular and rough.
Rim wear shines like stainless steel. Rim butt joint is in front.
Retains chin strap with a clip which dates 1944 and later (Reynosa "The
M-1 Helmet", mid-page 24). Lacks liner. It is highly
unlikely that you will ever encounter another helmet from this service.
It is my opinion that this helmet is original, based on 50 years of
assessing, buying and selling hundreds of painted helmets, U.S.,
Japanese and German. $395
 9H - NEAT PAIR OF WWI PATRIOTIC PAPER
CAPS More Photos, Click Here All red, white and
blue, in heavy paper. Looks like they would fit most adults (but we
don't recommend wearing). 11 x 6" flat.
Tops have circular star insignia against red and white stripes. Ends
have blue vertical bands with white stars. Headband is different on
each. One has WWI airplane, the other has a flying eagle. Unused
condition. $35
 
10H
- 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. Over 35 years ago, we adopted this
insignia as our business logo, and had it copyrighted. Shortly
thereafter we encountered 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. Some are bright and others have darkened patina. Brass
can be shined bright again if desired. Each...$35
  11H - 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.
Only a few left. As
they come from the supply...Each...$15
 13H - WWII
GERMAN ALLIES HELMET – RARE BULGARIAN ANTI-AIRCRAFT More Photos, Click Here 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 2¼” 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 a band encircling the side of the
crown, which has some paint wear and some thin scattered rust, from
where another helmet rested on top, in a stack. Excellent decal
with minor edge rub on right, top edge. Liner excellent and is
much like German WWI - brown leather with 3 lobes, each with two
fingers, mounted on leather band. Band employs decorative scrap
oilcloth in construction. Really neat helmet seldom seen.
Even has original printed issue form, loose in crown. Only
one left... $235
 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. 3½” in diameter,
including cockade. $150
 
15H - 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.
$95
 
16H - ORIGINAL C.1840-50's MILITIA HELMET PLATE Click on each thumbnail 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
 
17H - 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. $95
 
18H - 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. $95
  19H - HIGH QUALITY GOLD PLATED INFANTRY OFFICER'S KEPI
INSIGNIA C.1870-80'S Click on each thumbnail photo
for larger view Crossed rifles 1 9/16" wide, with four jeweler's rings soldered to
the rear, for sewing the insignia to the hat. High quality.
One of an infinite variety of kepi insignia used by officers.
Fine condition. No wear to gold. $65
  21H - MINT M1874 U.S. INFANTRY KEPI INSIGNIA Click on each thumbnail photo
for larger view Unbelievably, we uncovered a small original lot of these
insignia still in the original box Stokes Kirk kept them in (early
surplus dealer). These are stamped brass crossed muskets, with wire
loop fasteners soldered on back. 2 1/2” wide. Original Regular Army
issue, precisely as used throughout the Indian War period by Infantry.
Good as new. May have
a bit of tarnish only. Each...$60
  22H - NEAR MINT M1874 U.S. INFANTRY
KEPI INSIGNIA Click on each
thumbnail photo for larger view Crossed muskets in stamped
brass, 2 1/2" wide. Has only one wire fastener on back.
Otherwise perfect. What a thrill it would be to find one of
these at a Western fort.
$50 Have one other about
the same, but with no fasteners...they were actually cut off, not
broken (not pictured).
$45
  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...$50
 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. $245
  30H - RELIC M1872 U.S. ENLISTED CAVALRY CROSSED SABERS
HAT INSIGNIA Click on each thumbnail photo
for larger view Have
three specimens which were vandalized when turned in, probably by
unhappy soldiers. In all 3 cases, the end of one saber was broken
off, and some of the attaching wires also broken off. Fronts of two
are excellent (except tip of one saber). The third specimen is a bit
bent up. Great for
display... All three for only $35
  31H - M1872 U.S. ENLISTED CAVALRY CROSSED SABERS HAT
INSIGNIA Click
on each thumbnail photo for larger view These
actually saw field service, and are the last few left from material I
acquired years ago. Stamped brass 2 ¾” wide. Patina
ranges from dark to almost clean. Excellent fronts. Attaching wires
on back are gone (probably broken off when turned in). Have only 4. Each…$40
  32H - M1872 U.S. CAVALRY CROSSED SABERS HAT
INSIGNIA Click on each thumbnail photo
for larger view As
above. Stamped brass 2 ¾” wide. Actually saw service, then stocked
away when turned in. Have only a few acquired long ago and set
aside. Dark patina. Will have at least one rear attaching wire.
These are exactly as I have excavated at Western cavalry forts of the
Indian War period. Have only 3. Each…$50
  33H - MINT M1872 U.S.
CAVALRY KEPI INSIGNIA Click on each thumbnail photo
for larger view We discovered a
small, small lot of original insignia, still in the
original box (box no longer available) used by Stokes Kirk (early surplus dealer).
These are Regular U.S. Army issue stamped brass crossed
sabers insignia, just as I have dug at Western forts and
exactly as used throughout the Indian War period. 2
1/2” wide hilt to hilt x 1 1/2" tall, stamped brass wire loops soldered on the
rear. Good as new. Only have three left. (Our photos are
not very good!) Each...$60
  34H - M1872 U.S. ARTILLERY KEPI
INSIGNIA Click on each
thumbnail photo for larger view Found these
few scarce specimens I acquired years ago, and put away. Stamped brass crossed cannon. Prox. 2 1/8"
wide. I don't think we've had more than half a dozen in over 40
years. Have 3. Two are almost like new on the face; the
fastening wires are gone from the rear. The third has a bit of patina
on the lower face but retains one fastening wire on back. The top one is sold.
Each...$45
  35H
- M1872 U.S. ARTILLERY KEPI INSIGNIA Click on each
thumbnail photo for larger view
Stamped brass crossed cannon, prox. 2 1/8" wide. Worn on the front
of the cap. Original, and extremely scarce...as this was an
extremely small branch, as opposed to Infantry of Cavalry. Have
one left...mint, un-issued. Bright brass with 3 out of 4 wire loop
fasteners on back. Each...$70
35H - ANOTHER Middle one, in photo above As fine as
above, but definitely worn in service. Face shows a nice luster
from having been polished. Reverse is dark and has all 4 wire
loop fasteners, bent from service. Only have one. $75
  
36H - M1872 ARMY DRESS HELMET EAGLE FRONT PLATE Click on each thumbnail 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 4½” tall. $265
37H - M1881 HELMET BRASS PLUME HOLDER RODS Click
on each thumbnail for larger views All original. The
last of a very old lot of parts we kept while we were active dealers.
We’re now retired and no longer need parts. These are standard model
parts but because there were so many makers, there were variations in
rod thickness and length and thread. I measure each one out and you
pick what you need. Unless noted, most consist of decorative stamped
brass disc at top, solder fill on backside, plume support washer, rod
with threaded lower end and brass wing nut. (the measurements are
close)
-
 Rod is 5 1/2” long, 0.123” thick, with 1 3/4” of threads, w/32
threads/inch. $25
-
 Rod is 5 1/2" long, 0.118” thick, with 1 3/4" of threads, w/ 32
threads/inch. $25
-
SOLD Rod is 5 1/2" long, 0.122” thick, with 1 3/4” of threads, w/ 32
threads/inch. $25
-
 Rod is 5 1/2" long, 0.134” thick, with 1 1/8” of threads, w/ 26
threads/inch. $25
-
 Rod is 5 1/2” long, 0.133” thick, with 1 3/8” of threads, w/ 26
threads/inch. $25
-
Rod is 5 1/2” long, 0.122” thick, with 1 3/4" of threads, w/ 32
threads/inch. $25
-
 Rod is 5 1/2” long, 0.120” thick, with 1 3/4" of threads, w/ 32
threads/inch. $25
-
Rod is 5 1/2" long, 0.123” thick, with 1 3/4" of threads, w/ 32
threads/inch. $25
-
Rod is 5 1/2” long, 0.123” thick, with 1 3/4" of threads w/ 32
threads/inch. No washer. $20
-
Rod is 5 1/2” long, 0.132” thick, with 1 3/16” of threads w/ 26
threads/inch. No washer or nut. $18
-
Rod is 5 1/2” long, 0.130” thick with 1 3/4" of threads w/ 32
threads/inch. No washer or nut. $18
-
 Rod is 5 1/8” long, 0.130” thick with 3/4" of threads w/ 26
threads/inch. No washer or nut. Top decorative disc is not solder
filled - an early feature. $15
-
Rod is 4 3/4" long, 0.132” thick with 1/2" of threads w/ 26
threads/inch. No washer or nut. $15
-
 Rod is 4” long, 0.124” thick with 1” of threads w/ 26 threads/inch.
Decorative top is not solder filled - an early feature. No support
washer. $20
38H
- A NICE GROUP OF ORIGINAL M1881 (few M1872) HELMET SIDE BUTTONS
(Medallions).
All guaranteed original, from our stash of historic hat parts we've
collected for over 40 years. Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
    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.
Just found two more pair, very closely matched but not identical. $35
Each
  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 an insignia collection. Have two pair. Each…$35
  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 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
 
O. 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
|
6U - ORIGINAL M1902 U.S. ARMY BREAST CORD Click on thumbnail photo for larger views For the enlisted
dress tunic. Red for Artillery. Essential to properly finish off the
tunic. Prox. 54” long, consisting of double worsted wool cord which
ends at one end with netted ball with button loop, and runs the other
way into parallel rows of braid, more cord, then ending in twin,
circular flat knots and tassels. These cords drape across the chest and
loop over right shoulder. Excellent, lightly used example. Now very
scarce accessory. Guaranteed original. Have a few, all in similar
condition. Only...$35 each
