Item Description
Original Item: One Only. Much like our European cousins in the 1880s, the U.S. Armed Forces started to adopted spiked pith helmets, usually in dark navy blue or 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.
This helmet dates to the early 1900s, 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 beautifully made from cork covered with black fabric, with the Maker's name inside faintly marked under the spike fixture :-
FORMERLY
BAKER & McKENNEY
141 GRAND STREET, NEW YORK.
The Helmet plate displays the Iconic "Eagle, Globe, & Anchor" insignia of the United States Marine Corps. Helmet plate is in very good condition, with a bit of bending inward of the "globe" on the top. The side cockades over the ears are of an Eagle on a Fouled Anchor. The helmet comes complete with its original chained brass link chin strap with leather backing. Chin strap is in good condition, though it is somewhat delicate.
The interior helmet is marked: INSPECTED / 1903 / U.S.M.C., so this may be the year it was put into service. The original leather sweatband is still present, but deteriorating. The helmet overall does show quite a bit of use, and is somewhat delicate. The front and rear visor are lined with green material, which is flaking off of the interior and is very delicate. The top spike is loose, as the threads on the cast metal top fitting have mostly stripped out.
Very nice, extremely rare and in great condition for its age, ready to display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
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