Prussian pioneer e.m. Spike helm

[vady]

any comments on this pioneer 'haube? (other than wrong side cocarde and too bad about the c'strap, of course!)

these M1891/1895 (which is this?) nickel models seem a lot more in demand than the std. M15s or the earlier brass versions.

many thanks guys.

[oradour]

vady, looks a nice helmet, please post more photos....sides,back and interior....the only differance between the M91 and M95 is that the M91 had no sliding vent on the rear spine , that feature was introduced in the M95, so check the rear spine to see which model you have. The silver finish does not show up well on your photo, try re-taking the photos in natural light (outside), im sure it will highlight the silver finish much better.

[vady]

thanx mate; hope to when I have a chance.
basically : it has the sliding vent, great linerm deep crackle one side, almost nil the other, 2 period replacement spike base pins, a missing state cocarde, sad chinstrap, and yet it's all very tight!

[Adler]

It's a M95 for Pioniere if the metal is silver Vady. Fixation of the chinstrap is on M91 sideposts.
Until 1897 this model had the state Kokarde (black - white - black) on the right... In 1897 the new Reichs-Kokarde (red - white - black) was introduced and had to be worn on the right side of the helmet, and the state Kokarde was moved to the left.
Normally you can find the makers mark and production date at the inside of the helmet shell. Regimental numbers and acceptance stamps are found most of the time in the neck guard...
As Oraduor already stated, larger and better pics could show this fine helmet better than this one small picture... so please let us enjoy seeing this beautiful haube as it deserves...

Adler