Item Description
Original Item: One Only. Much like our European cousins in the 1880s, the U.S. Army started to adopt spiked pith helmets, often in white, with all brass mounts and occasionally plumes. These saw active service in the Spanish American War of 1898 especially in the tropical climate in Cuba. While often referred to as "pith helmets" in the broad sense, it was made from cork, like many European variants, such as the Wolseley pattern used by the British.
This helmet dates to the late 1880s to early 1890s, and it really is quite striking. This is not the type of helmet that was worn in the field, but instead one intended for use with the "dress" uniform for ceremonial occasions. It is beautifully made from cork covered with brown fabric but missing a legible maker’s label.
The Helmet plate displays the Great Seal of the United States, with the American Eagle with a banner in its beak stating: E PLURIBUS UNUM. The "crossed cannons" on the chinstrap buttons identifies this helmet as being used by a member of an Artillery regiment. From the looks of the front plate, it is the original plate to the helmet and was not switched like ones we have seen in the past.
Very nice, great condition for age with loads of patina, ready to display!
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