November 7-8, 2018 Edged Weapons, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/7/2018
In 1881 when a somewhat different pattern of dress helmet was adopted for the whole army, all of the Model 1872 dress helmets were ordered shipped to the Philadelphia Depot where they were turned over to Horstmann & Bros who cut them down to conform to the new regulations. They were then reissued. This example is in untouched condition as altered in 1881, with the visors cut down, reshaped and with replacement edging. The helmet retains its Model 1872 brass hardware, yellow horsehair plume and braided gold cords. The eagle front plate displays a German silver number "6" on its shield. The black leather chin strap is secured by two cavalry side buttons. CONDITION: Excellent. Interior leather lining and green visor facings are in very good condition showing light wear but the sweatband is partially detached, a paper label affixed to the dome reads "Horstmann Bros & Co Philadelphia Military Furnishers", another paper label reflecting the alterations reads " Horstmann & Bros Philadelphia Contractors Remodeled 1881". From the Ray Bentley Collection.
Item Dimensions: 10 - 1/2" x 11".