December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 150:
Description
Pickelhaube, specifically identified as an Officer s Model from the Kingdom of Bavaria due to the crest s unique design. The helmet shell is constructed of black hardened leather, showing cracking and wear on the visor, and is adorned with impressive brass or gilt metal fittings. The prominent front plate, or wappen, features the Bavarian state coat of armsÑa crowned shield supported by two lions rampantÑbeneath the phrase In Treue Fest Steadfast in Loyalty , the Bavarian motto. A distinctive feature is the brass Reserve Band wrapped around the base of the wappen, indicating the original owner was an officer of the Reserve. The helmet is topped with a classic brass spike and features brass trim and rosettes on the sides. The interior shows significant damage and degradation to the leather liner , consistent with an artifact that has endured over a century, likely dating this piece to the period just prior to World War I. The rarity of an officer s model with a reserve band and the specific Bavarian wappen makes this a premium piece of Imperial German military history.
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