Prussia, Kingdom. An M1897 Kürassier Metal Helmet, Iii Squadron Of Regiment No. 7

(Metalhelme). A Kürassier (Heavy Cavalry) metal helmet made of nickel-steel, with a rounded front peak and a three-piece lobster neck-guard, edged in gilt trim, featuring a tall spike constructed of white metal mounted onto a gilt neck and oval base, the base features four gilded dome heads, the front of the helmet features a gilt Prussian Line eagle, the convex chinscales are brass and secured to the helmet by M1891 posts, fitting over both National and Prussian State cockades, the interior is lined with a nine-tongue leather liner, presenting the label for Kürassier Klug. 3. Esc. Kür. Regt. v. Seydlitz (Magd.) No.7 (3rd Squadron of Kürassier Regiment No. 7), the underside of the neck-guard is painted black, the front peak is painted green, and the crown is painted black, the helmet measures 19 cm (w) x 32.2 cm (l) x 32 cm (h), presenting moderate wear to the interior liner, small section of copper wire around pin connecting chinstrap having been collector added (Chinstrap connects correctly), in overall better than very fine condition.

Footnote: This helmet suggests private purchase like those usually worn by senior NCOs. Officers’ helmets differ by having fluted spikes, clover-leaf spike bases, chinscale bosses, and stepped front peaks. For more information see Thomas N.G. Stubbs, Imperial German Military Officers’ Helmets & Head Dress, 1871-1918 (Atglen, PA: Schiffer Military History, 2004), 247-248.