Uniforms (Headgear follows
below)
All items listed below
are offered & sold as collector items only, and not recommended or guaranteed for wear
1U - WWII G.I. REGULATION KHAKI NECK TIE Click on thumbnail photos for larger views
SOLD Great item, with custom painted cartoon on the face, just above the fat
tip. Could be worn with full uniform and the art work would not be
seen. Above the duck is the French motto "LIBERTE' - 'EGALITE' -
FRATERNITE' ". Makes it clear that the soldier is leaving France.
Duck is the artist's rendition of the "Ruptured Duck" which indicates
the soldier is on his way toward discharge; duck leans on a crutch.
Nice condition. Still in original plastic from previous owner; as
we purchased it years ago. $45
2U - TALL PAIR OF LADIES RED-WHITE-BLUE STOCKINGS Click on thumbnail photo for larger views
WWI Era. Flag Motif. Nice patriotic pair that we
date WWI period, early 1900's. We can't tell if they were sewn at
home by a real pro or whether they were commercially made. We
think the former, because the pieces of fabric from which they are made
have slight differences in color, seen in the red stripes. Some
are darker red, others are lighter. Can't figure out why other
than they were made that way, or perhaps when cleaned, some of the color
was washed out . 29" long. From tip to rear of heel is 8
1/2". Top 11" is black, with red-white-blue band at top.
Below this is 14" of flag motif. Red and white and pale grey blue
with stars. Tasteful and neat. Excellent used condition.
For display only...$30
 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. $175
4U -
WWII "KEEP 'EM FLYING" 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. $65
 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. $3,750
 7U - ORIGINAL M1902 U.S. ARMY BREAST CORD More Photos, Click Here 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
8U - 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. $135
 23U - WWII JAPANESE SOLDIER'S HEAVY SUMMER
TUNIC More Photos, Click Here
On Layaway This is Type 3, dated 1944. Light olive twilled cotton body
with thick greyish blanket type lining. White cotton lining inside
left chest where like new markings are located. Below this is a
small white pocket. In the pocket is a pair of original leading
private collar tabs; reddish orange with yellow stripe. Has a 4
pocket, 5 button front. Buttons are brown tone metal. There
are hip vents and single belt loop on left. About new condition.
Guaranteed original. $225
 27U - WWII JAPANESE REPLICA TYPE 99 INFANTRY COMBAT
BELT – CARTRIDGE BOX SET More Photos, Click Here Often referred to as
the Navy
pattern, when they were designed for the 7.7mm cartridge of the Type 99
rifle. Originals
are virtually unobtainable. This
is a re-creation in exacting detail, which in my opinion is
better than the original, both in workmanship and quality. Entirely combat
worthy. It includes
EVERYTHING! ... Waist belt with solid brass buckle, the two front, wedge
shaped cartridge boxes with over-the-top closing strap, the bayonet frog
with little belt/buckle on front, and the large, rear, bulk 60 round ammo pouch, WITH OILER on side, again in exacting
detail. Just the single bulk cartridge box without oiler brings $200
in the original. For display or
reenactment, you could not hope to obtain better. All matching reddish brown, lustrous heavy leather with white
stitching. Superb. Unbelievably, there are even cardstock cartridge packets (no
internals) with Japanese writing in the front boxes!! $95 each,
wholesale price, and below our cost
Only two left!!
 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). 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. Overall fine condition showing little use.
Guaranteed original. $225
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 - 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 Priced below
our cost
  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. Almost 30 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. All are about the same condition. Each...$35
 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. $45
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
two left. Each...$375
 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. $695
 5H - WWII GERMAN AIR FORCE ENLISTED
VISOR CAP METAL INSIGNIA. Click on each thumbnail
photo for larger view
This is the large stamped aluminum
wreath/national cockade in front of spread wings. Full original brass prongs on back.
Fine condition. Guaranteed original. $35
  6H - WWII GERMAN NATIONAL SHIELD
INSIGNIA FOR DAK HELMET. Click on each thumbnail photo
for larger view
SOLD Worn on right side of
helmet. Stamped sheet metal shield 1¾” high, painted
red/silver/black. Rear has three prongs (complete) for attaching
to helmet. Strong paint. Light patina. Shows some use;
some typical age to finish on edges and front & rear. Guaranteed original. $30
  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. $375
   8H - REGULATION SPANISH AMERICAN WAR ARTILLERY HAT INSIGNIA. Click on each thumbnail photo
for larger view Enhanced with a really neat
and detailed Civil War field piece (cannon). This is the bronze crossed
cannon insignia with #6 (regiment) above the intersection, and hanging
below the intersection, from a small wire ring, is the miniature
cannon. Wheels move, cannon barrel moves. I don’t know if this was
modified by the soldier for wear on civilian clothes, or if this was
meant for a lady, as sweetheart jewelry. Crossed cannon has screw back
fastener. Very fine condition. From our personal collection. $65
 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 - WWII PATRIOTIC HAT MADE FROM 48 STAR FLAG
Click on thumbnail for
larger views
Clever hat made by folding a 48 star medium gauze type fabric
patriotic flag. Probably done for a child to wear with a costume.
Good as new. As it is now, the measurements are 11 1/4" wide by 6"
tall. The original flag measures 11 1/4" x 16 1/2". It has been in
this configuration for a long time, and shows hand stitching around the
edges to stop fraying while being used as a hat. $25
  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. 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... $245
 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. $175
 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 - LOT OF FIVE ORIGINAL M1881 HELMET CHAIN HOOKS Click on each thumbnail for
larger view
On Layaway Brass shield with
hook on bottom to support chain, plus brass wire fasteners on back.
Very good used condition. Always nice to have a small supply. Having
been a militaria dealer for 45+ years, and now retired, we no longer
need these. S & S sells these for $15 EACH. All five for
$40
  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. $75
  20H - M1872 U.S. INFANTRY KEPI
INSIGNIA Click on each thumbnail photo
for larger view The hunting horn, as worn
during the Civil War, just a bit smaller, and only worn for two
years! Very scarce; replaced in 1874 by the crossed rifle
insignia. Just discovered these last three while cleaning out a
miscellaneous drawer prior to moving. 2 3/16" wide
with stamped brass. One is excellent, with both attachment
wires. Two lack one of the attaching wires. Only
one left, with one attaching wire...$50
  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...$65
 
 25H - CIVIL WAR ENLISTED INFANTRY HAT CORD Click on each thumbnail for
larger view Worn on the Hardee hat. 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. Still retains
the thread which holds the fringe bunched together.
One of the double loop cords has a break in one of the strands,
allowing it to unwind for about an inch. It needs to be re-wound
around the basic cord and held back in place with a couple loops of
thread. The whole repair, if done carefully, should be
invisible. Nothing else is missing. One tassel also has a
couple spots of fringe that are cut or frayed, but still there. From a stash of rare hat parts accumulated over 45+ years. $65
 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
  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. 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 4. 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 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, stamped brass wire loops soldered on the
rear. Good as new. Only have a very few. Each...$60
  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. $110
35H - 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
-
 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, 0.132” 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
-
 Rod is 4 1/4" long, 0.202” thick, with 1 3/4" of threads w/ 26
threads/inch. Decorative top is not solder filled – an early
feature. No washer. $25
-
 Custom Plume Holder for late 1800’s helmet. Basic part is brass spike
from M1881 Army helmet. This was modified so that plume could be
mounted at top. Side has a brass insignia with eagle and crossed
cannon. Base has screw-on arrangement. Imaginative. $5
-
 Custom
Plume Holder for late 1800’s helmet. Screwed to top of helmet, and
lifts the plume about 5”. Base is tapered spike which flows into a
brass rod which at top is made to take a horsehair plume. Has
decorative stamped brass disc on the very top similar to M1881; needs
some straightening. Make your own helmet. $5
   37H - 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
   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 - 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
  40H
- 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 two mint, un-issued. Bright brass with 3 out of 4 wire loop
fasteners on back. Each...$70
40H - 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
  41H - 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
  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. $95
  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. $95
   44H - 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. $275
  45H - C.1810-40 HALF SUNBURST HELMET PLATE Click on each thumbnail 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. 4½” wide. Retains original wire fasteners on back.
Valuable restoration part. $125
47 H
- 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 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. 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 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 M1872 Officer’s Helmet Artillery Side Button.
On Layaway 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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