Saxon Pickelhaube, one previous injured owner?

[BlackCat1982]

This is my only Pickelhaube, got in a junk shop over 25 years ago I still recall it cost my £80, which I thought was ok at the time.

[BlackCat1982]

Photo rotated correctly.



There is an inscription on the inside as well as what appears to be traces of blood. It is hard to believe that such headgear was ever thought of as being protective in those early years of the Great War.

[Kohima]

A beautiful, rare beastie!
Great find.
I don’t need to tell you how scarce the canvas-covered cork examples are. Saxon, chin-scales, named... it’s got it all!

With regard to protection, I don’t think that was much of a consideration at the time; more to do with tradition and impressiveness (if that’s a real word).
In an era when virtually all armies stumbled into war with nothing more than a soft, cloth cap, the boiled leather Pickelhaube was probably the most protective of them all.

[BlackCat1982]

Thanks for your comments Kohima, they are much appreciated. It doesn't look as smart as other Pickelhaubes but I like it.

[TabsTabs1964]

Nice. I like it.

Regards
Santi

[HARRY THE MOLE]

A nice helmet, and £80 wasn't bad even 25 or so years ago. Back in the 1960's it was possible to get an officers pickelhaube for as little as £5 at Shudehill market in Manchester. You won't know what that stain is unless you get it analysed, but in truth it could be anything.

Cheers,
Steve

[AndyM35]

That really is a beauty! And quite scarce as Kohima has said. The writing inside is an added bonus.

[Gwar]

I like the look !

[MAP]

I have never seen an example like this! Cool!

[BlackCat1982]

Thank you for all your comments. I have no ghoulish interest in testing the origin of the stain, but pleased to be its custodian for now.