June 12-13, 2019 Edged Weapon, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/13/2019
Lot consists of two pith helmets. The pith helmet (Spanish: salacot), also known as the safari helmet, sun helmet, topee, sola topee, or topi, is a lightweight cloth-covered helmet made of sholapith. The USMC used the Model 1887/89 pattern sun helmets through the 20th century as well as the Model 1881 helmets that were utilized by some National Guard and State Militia units. Photographic evidence suggests that at least some officers opted to use the white Model 1887 as a “dress helmet” in summer months. One of these helmets has the Marine Corp spike with USMC insignia along with button hooks for chin strap which is not present. Has inner leather sweat band. CONDITION: Helmet is clean and in excellent condition with minor toning. The second helmet does not have a spike nor did it ever but this style is also documented. It features the large USMC brass insignia, cotton sweat band, and no strap. CONDITION: Excellent condition with just some minor toning. A wonderful pair of late 19th century USMC dress pith helmets that are also documented as having been used in battle.