Imperial German Headgear 1860 To 1910

Imperial German Dunkelblau
1860 to 1914
Imperial German
Dunkelblau Helmets
1860 to 1915
The Model 1842 Pickelhaube
From:
Der Bunte Rock in Preuen. Staatliche Museen Preuischer Kulturbesitz, Berlin, (1981)
In 1842, the King of Preuen (Prussia), Friedrich Wilhelm IV introduced

the spiked helmet for the majority of Preuen foot troops by AKO
(Allerhchste Kabinetts Order = A Royal Cabinet Order) of 23 October
1842.
Helmet fittings, such as the Wappen (front plate), spike and base, front
visor trim, and rear spine were made in either brass or German silver
(nickel). As a rule, the color of the uniform buttons worn by the unit (gilt
or silver) determined the color of the fittings on the helmet.
The helmet averaged 34 to 38 cm tall (approx. 15 inches) with a squared

front visor which flared out at the sides. For Infantry and the majority of
other foot troops, the helmet was decorated with a 14 cm tall spike
supported on a cruciform spike base. For ventilation, two holes were

placed in the neck of the spike which was surrounded by a brass
decorative "Perlring" (literally, a ring of pearls) at the bottom.
Convex brass chinscales were worn by all ranks and were secured to the
helmet with a 3cm threaded bolt with a brass head. The chinscales did not
hook together and required the use of the small leather strap behind the
chinscales to keep them together when not worn under the chin.
On the rear of the helmet, a brass spine secured with two brass studs ran
from the spike base to the bottom of the rear visor which added strength
and rigidity to the helmet body.
The line eagle Wappen (front plate) measured 125mm and carried a "FR"
on the eagle's chest for most troops or "FWR" (Friedrich Wilhelm Rex) in a
cypher
for
Grenadier
Regiments
.
A spread wing Garde pattern eagle Wappen with Garde star was worn by
the Garde-Regt. zu Fu Regiments. The Preuen Garde Grenadier
Regiments wore the same spread wing Garde pattern eagle Wappen, but
without the Garde star. The Wappen on all helmets was originally secured
by two bolts that passed through the front of the plate but this was
changed in 1843 to two threaded bolts soldered to the reverse of the
Wappen.
Landwehr and Reserve wore a similar eagle Wappen, but a silver
Landwehr Iron Cross was carried on the chest instead of the FR or FWR
cypher of the line troops.
Click on the thumbnail picture for a larger picture and a full explanation.
Front Wappen
Spike Base
Side & Liner
Rear Spine
Side Post
Die
Preuen
Artillerie
From 1842 to 1844 the Preuen Artillerie (Prussian Artillery) wore a line infantry Pickelhaube
with spike which was replaced by AKO (Imperial decree) 19 September 1844 AKO with a Kugel
(ball) to represent a cannon ball. From this point on, the Artillery helmet was known as a
"Kugelhelm". Like all Pickelhaube, the Artillerie Kugelhelm underwent numerous modifications
from
1844
to
1915.
Kokarden
On the right side of the helmet a 75mm leather Preuen Kokarde in the national colors of
black/white/black was worn under the chinscale for the rank of Vizefeldwebel and below.
Please click HERE for a detailed list of NCO ranks. In 1844 Portepee-Unteroffiiziere were
entitled to wear a 75mm leather officer's Kokarde with silver metal ring while Sergeant and
below
retained
the
75mm
Leather
Kokarde.
In 1846 the Portepee-Unteroffiiziere (and officers and Fhnrich) were entitled to wear a 75mm
silk Kokarde with silver painted ring although the 1844 Kokarde was used concurrently. For
Sergeant and below, the leather Kokarde was replaced with a 75mm Painted wool Kokarde.
In 1848 a new "Deutsche Kokarde" was introduced to be worn on the left side of the helmet,
but this was short-lived and the "Deutsche Kokarde" was terminated in 1851.
A view of the Model 1842 Preuen Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Landwehr
Pickelhaube profile. The height of this helmet is shown nicely in this photograph.
Sitting on a flat surface, the helmet measures an incredible 38cm tall (15 inches) tall.
The helmet would have originally been issued with a 75mm leather Preuen Kokarde in the
national colors of black/white/black, however, this example carries the massive 75mm metal
Preuen Kokarde introduced in 1857; probably added when the helmet was issued to the
Landwehr or Reserve.
The liner of the M1842 Pickelhaube was of heavy leather with rounded
"tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit. The
rear visor has curled inward from the effects of time, unlike the front visor
which carries a thick brass trim. Of interest, the rear visor has a sewn
leather edge, similar to what is found on the rear visor of Officer
Pickelhaubes right up until 1918.
Note that all the brass threaded bolts for securing the brass fittings to the
shell are all domed.
On the rear of the helmet, a brass spine secured with two brass studs runs
from the spike base to the bottom of the rear visor which adds strength and
rigidity to the helmet body.
The helmet shell is sewn up the rear and the rear brass spine helps to hide
this feature of the construction.
The helmet spike is an amazing 14 cm tall and rests on a cruciform spike base
which slopes sharply down to follow the contour of the shell. For ventilation,
two holes in the neck of the spike can be closed by rotating the brass
decorative "Perlring" (literally, a ring of pearls) at the bottom.
10
The spike top is not removable, as removable spike tops were not introduced
for specific Regiments until 1857.
The line eagle Wappen (front plate) measures 125mm and mimics the shape
and pattern of the Royal Preuen scepter. Rather than having the standard
"FR" or "FWR" on the eagle's chest for most troops, this Landwehr or Reserve
Wappen carries a silver Landwehr Iron Cross.
Note that on this early Wappen all tail feathers drop vertically below the
chest and that the gaps between the wings and the legs are not voided.
11
The large convex brass chinscales are secured to the helmet with a 3cm
threaded bolt with a brass head.
The heavy brass convex chinscales measure an impressive 36mm wide at the
widest point. All troops wore convex chinscales until 1856 when an AKO
directed that the convex brass chinscales would be changed to flat brass
chinscales for all Infantry units.
Model 1842 Preuen Infantry Landwehr Pickelhaube

The "Grandfather" of all Pickelhaubes; an issued Model 1842 Preuen
Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Landwehr Pickelhaube.
The brass eagle Wappen (front plate), spike and base, front visor trim,
rear spine, and chinscales, are fitted to an exceptionally tall helmet shell
made from boiled leather with a distinctive squared front visor which
flares out at the sides. As is typical for an issued helmet, this helmet has
12
had a varied career. It appears that it was originally issued in 1842 to a

Line Infantry Regiment, re-fitted sometime after 1843 with a new eagle
Wappen, eventually issued to the Landwehr or Reserve, and finally fitted
with a Model metal Preuen Kokarde in 1857.
As the Pickelhaube evolved, older Model 1842 helmets were cut down
and re-sewn to comply with the new regulations. M1842 were converted
to M1857, then converted again to M1860, then once again to M1867 etc.
This policy of modifying older models to new regulations explains the
extreme rarity of issued M1842 Pickelhaubes today.
13
14
The line eagle Wappen (front plate) measures 125mm

and mimics the shape and pattern of the Royal Preuen
scepter. Rather than having the standard "FR" or "FWR"
on the eagle's chest for most troops, this Landwehr or
Reserve Wappen carries a silver Landwehr Iron Cross.
Note that on this early Wappen all tail feathers drop
vertically below the chest and that the gaps between
the wings and the legs are not voided.
Holes under the Wappen reveal that this Pickelhaube
carried the original M1842 Wappen which was secured
by two bolts that passed through the wings of the eagle
Wappen. In 1843 two threaded bolts were soldered to
the reverse of newer eagle Wappen which required new
15
holes in the front of the helmet shell.

A small corner of the 1813 Landwehr Iron Cross on this example has
broken off which is typical as metal from this era tends to be quite brittle.
16
A view of the Model 1842 Preuen Infantry

Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Landwehr Pickelhaube
profile. The height of this helmet is shown nicely in this
photograph.
Sitting on a flat surface, the helmet measures an
incredible 38cm tall (15 inches) tall.
The helmet would have originally been issued with a
17
75mm leather Preuen Kokarde in the national colors of

black/white/black, however, this example carries the
massive 75mm metal Preuen Kokarde introduced in
1857; probably added when the helmet was issued to
the Landwehr or Reserve.
The helmet spike is an amazing 14 cm tall and rests on a cruciform spike
base which slopes sharply down to follow the contour of the shell. For
ventilation, two holes in the neck of the spike can be closed by rotating
the brass decorative "Perlring" (literally, a ring of pearls) at the bottom.
The spike top is not removable, as removable spike tops were not
introduced for specific Regiments until 1857.
18
19
On the rear of the helmet, a brass spine secured with two brass studs runs
from the spike base to the bottom of the rear visor which adds strength
20
and rigidity to the helmet body.

The helmet shell is sewn up the rear and the rear brass spine helps to hide
this feature of the construction.
The large convex brass chinscales are secured to the helmet with a 3cm
threaded bolt with a brass head.
The heavy brass convex chinscales measure an impressive 36mm wide at
the widest point. All troops wore convex chinscales until 1856 when an
AKO directed that the convex brass chinscales would be changed to flat
brass chinscales for all Infantry units.
21
The chinscales have a small leather strap and buckle sewn into the
chinscale backing to keep them together when not worn under the chin.
The chinscales did not hook together on issued M1842 Pickelhaubes, so
both ends of the last scale on the chinscales are simply rounded.
The liner of the M1842 Pickelhaube was of heavy leather with rounded
"tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit. The
rear visor has curled inward from the effects of time, unlike the front visor
which carries a thick brass trim. Of interest, the rear visor has a sewn
leather edge, similar to what is found on the rear visor of Officer
Pickelhaubes
right
up
until
1918.
Note that all the brass threaded bolts for securing the brass fittings to the
22
shell are all domed.
23
An exceptionally rare photograph of a soldier of the Preuen Infantry

wearing a Model 1842 Pickelhaube.
The photographer was Atelier (studio) Ernst Fentsch in Neisse. It is signed
by what appears to read (?) as : Freiherrn Treusch von Buttlar Brandenfels
(?) and annotated that he belonged to Infanterie-Regiment Graf Bose (1.
Thringisches) Nr.31 from Altona.
Although commercial photographs on tin were available from August

1839 by Louis Daguerre as Daguerreotypes, this image was captured as an
early Cartes-de-visite which were introduced by Parisian photographer,
Andre Disdri in 1854. Due to the significant changes introduced in the
shape of the Pickelhaube between 1857 and 1860, this photograph was
probably taken at least prior to 1860, making it the oldest photograph of a
24
Pickelhaube
in
use
that
am
aware
of.
I am not aware of any other photograph owned or in print, of an M1842

Pickelhaube being worn.
The Model 1856/57 Pickelhaube

On 26 June 1856, an AKO directed that the convex brass chinscales would be
changed to flat brass chinscales for all Infantry units. Cavalry and Field
Artillery units, however, continued to utilize convex chinscales. For all units,
the new chinscales hooked together in the center with a small ball and
corresponding hole when not worn under the chin and the the long retaining
bolt of 1842 was replaced by a simple threaded screw with a corresponding
threaded post.
25
An AKO dated 24 December 1857

reduced the helmet height to make
the helmet less unwieldy and more
practical for use. Older Model 1842
helmets were cut down and re-sewn
to comply with the new regulations.
This policy of modifying older
models to new regulations explains
the rarity of early Pickelhaubes
today.
This amazingly clear period photo of
a M1857 sitting on a desk clearly
shows the reduced height, flat
chinscales which hooked together,
and the threaded screw post.
An additional change for 1857 was the introduction of a new 75mm painted
Kokarde made from stamped sheet-metal to replace the painted wool
Kokarde which had proved less than satisfactory.
On 10 May 1860 a Bandeau was introduced for the eagle Wappen with
the motto "MIT GOTT FR KOENIG UND VATERLAND" (With God For King
And Fatherland) to be placed above the "FR" or "FWR" cypher. Reserve
and Landwehr did not adopt the new Bandeau.
On 04 November 1860 the Pickelhaube was once again reduced slightly in
size and once again existing Model 1856/57 helmets were cut down and
re-sewn to comply with the new regulations. The reduced height of the
helmet shell resulted in a new 56mm stamped sheet-metal Kokarde being
26
introduced.
This slight height reduction made the 125mm eagle Wappen too large for
the helmet and a new eagle Wappen measuring 120mm was also
introduced.
M1860 Hannover Infantry Regiment 79
Click to Enlarge
Older 1842 pattern eagle Wappen that were

void of the Bandeau, were modified by having
a Bandeau soldered to the front to make the
older eagle Wappens comply with the
regulations. This example shows a M1842
eagle Wappen converted to M1860 with the
addition of a Bandeau.
27
Front Wappen
Spike Base
Side & Liner
Rear Spine
Side Post
This period photo of an issued

M1860 sitting on a desk beside a
member of the Garde-Regt. zu Fu
clearly shows the reduced height
and "vaterland" Bandeau. Note
also the spread wing Garde pattern
eagle Wappen.
In 1860 the Landwehr, which had worn a Pickelhaube from 1842, replaced
the Pickelhaube with the M1860 pattern Tschako. The Tschako was worn by
the Landwehr until 1881 when they once again adopted the Pickelhaube.
28
A side view showing the high profile, typical for a Model 1860.
29
The liner of the M1860 helmet had not changed from the Model 1842
helmet. Contrary to some publications, this liner was in use for
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) for the entire life of the Pickelhaube, from 1842
to 1915.
30
A view of the rear of the helmet. Note the brass spine secured with two brass
studs thta were worn from 1842 to 1867. *NOTE* This pattern of rear spine
with external studs, continued to be used by Dragoon regiments right up
until 1915.
31
The M1860 spike was quite tall and maintained the Perlring for all
Mannschaft (Other Ranks). The top for this example is not removable, as only
titled units were allowed to wear parade plumes.
32
A view of the domed brass nuts used to secure the front plate and crucifrom
spike base.
33
A view of the M1860 Wappen (front plate) with the Bandeau introduced in
1860 with the motto " MIT GOTT FR KOENIG UND VATERLAND" (With God
For King And Fatherland). Older Wappen that were void of the Bandeau were
modified by having a Bandeau soldered to the front to make the Wappens
comply with the regulations.
34
A view of the threaded screw post and flat brass chinscales for all Infantry
units. The Preuen Kokarde is sheet metal.
Preuen (Hannover) Model 1860

Infantry Regt 79
Model 1860 Hannover Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube for Inf. Regt. Von Voigts - Rhetz (3. Hannoversches) Nr.79, Hildesheim X. ArmeeKorps.
What makes this helmet interesting is that Hannover was occupied and
annexed by Prussia in 1866 after Hannover sided with Austria in the 1866
35
war. The helmet is dated 1867 which would have been the first year of
IR79 being under Prussian control.
36
A view of the M1860 Wappen (front plate) with the

Bandeau introduced in 1860 with the motto " MIT GOTT
FR KOENIG UND VATERLAND" (With God For King And
Fatherland). Older Wappen that were void of the
Bandeau were modified by having a Bandeau soldered
to the front to make the Wappens comply with the
regulations.
The helmet is unit marked IR79 1867 FB (Fsilier Batt) on the skull inside
top. As is typical with early helmets, the unit markings are in white paint.
Note the domed brass threaded bolts for securing the cruciform spike
base.
37
38
A side view showing the high profile, typical for a Model

1860.
A view of the rear of the helmet. Note the brass spine secured with two
brass studs that were worn from 1842 to 1867.
39
The liner of the M1860 helmet had not changed from the Model 1842
helmet. Contrary to some publications, this liner was in use for
40
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) for the entire life of the Pickelhaube, from
1842 to 1915.
41
A rather scarce photograph of a

Private in a Preuen Infantry
Regt holding his Model 1860
Pickelhaube. The tunic is a
M1842 Waffenrock.

As a direct result of experience gained in the war with Austria and Hannover
in 1866, changes were required which were intended to simplify production
and reduce the cost of manufacturing the Pickelhaube.
The cruciform spike base was changed to a round base secured with split
brads bent back against the inside of the helmet, the square front peak
was changed to a rounded one, and the rear spine was removed to reduce
the
amount
of
brass
used
in
construction.
As a result of the removed rear spine, earlier helmets that had been sewn
up the rear, were reversed so the helmet plate would cover the stitching
and new visors were attached in the reverse positions. These modified
helmets show extensive re-working with plugged holes on the rear from
the old eagle Wappen and on the top from the removed cruciform spike
base.
42
M1867 Oldenberg Infantry Regiment 91
A notable change was with the method for retaining the eagle Wappen (front
plate). The threaded bolts on the reverse of the Wappen were replaced with
two sliders that slid into two corresponding mounts secured to the outside of
the
helmet.
The final modification, was the reduction in size of the stamped metal
Mannschaften Kokarden for Sergeant and below to 51mm to reflect the
reduced height of the helmet shell.
43
Front Wappen
Spike Base
Side & Liner
Plate Slides
Plate Slides
Exceptions to the Model 1867 Pickelhaube

Although Line units such as Infantry, Artillery, Pioneer, Train (Supply), and
Verkehrstruppen (please see Glossary for details) adopted the round spike
base and visor in 1867, Dragoner (Dragoons) continued to use cruciform
spike bases and squared front visors. Some members of the German Empire
such as Hessen and some Wrttemberg units utilized a combination. As this
essay is limited to the Kingdom of Preuen, please see the On-Line Guide to
Imperial German Pickelhauben for details on helmets from other
contingents.
44
A side view showing the high dome of the helmet.
45
The liner of the M1867 remained the same, but the threaded bolts for
securing the spike base have now been replaced with split brads bent back
against the inside of the helmet.
46
In 1867, the cruciform spike base was changed to a round base secured with
split brads bent back against the inside of the helmet. On the M1867 helmets
the rear spines were removed to reduce the amount of brass used in
construction.
47
Inside, the bolts on issued helmets were changed to split brads bent back
against the reinforcement plate.
48
A view of the M1867 Wappen (front plate) for Oldenburg. Note that for
Oldenburg, a regular Preuen bandeau " MIT GOTT FR KOENIG UND
VATERLAND" was used, superimposed with the Oldenburg Wappen (crest).
The M1867 Wappen was secured to the helmet shell with two flat sliders
that replaced the threaded bolts. The plate fit into corresponding two female
slots secured to the front of the helmet.
49
With the Wappen on an M1867 removed, the old "rear" of the helmet and
stitching is revealed, indicating that this helmet was originally an M1842,
M1856, or M1860 pattern Pickelhaube before it was converted to an M1867.
A notable change on the M1867 was with the method for retaining the eagle
Wappen (front plate). The threaded bolts on the reverse of the Wappen
were replaced with two sliders that slid into two corresponding mounts
secured to the outside of the helmet.
This helmet shows evidence of being re-worked more than once, as it
appears to initially have had a Wappen with screw-posts attached when it
was converted to an M1867, and then later updated with M67 slider mounts.
50
A view of the two brass slides on the reverse of the M1867 front plate. No
previous soldering from M1860 bolts are visible indicating that the front
plate was constructed as an M1867. Note the two nuts on the center of the
chest for the Oldenberg Wappen.
Model 1867 Preuen Garde Grenadier Pickelhaube

Model 1867 Preuen Garde Grenadier Pickelhaube from one of the five
Garde
Grenadier
Regts.
As a result of the war with Austria and Hannover in 1866, changes to
simplify production and reduce the cost of manufacturing Pickelhauben
resulted in the Model 1867. The cruciform spike base was changed to a
51
round base secured with split brads bent back against the inside of the
helmet, the square front peak was changed to a rounded one, and the
rear spine was removed to reduce the amount of brass used in
construction.
The chances are very good that this helmet was worn during the Battle of
Gravelotte-St. Privat (August 18, 1870) during the Franco-Preuen war.
This helmet is not only important for the war in which it was worn, but it
is also a fascinating study in how early helmets were cut-down, reworked,
and reissued.
52
This helmet was worn by the following Regiments of

Garde Grenadier, all of whom were garrisoned with the
Garde-Korps:
Kaiser Alexander Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.1

(Berlin)
53
Kaiser Franz Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.2 (Berlin)

Knigin Elisabeth Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.3
(Charlottenburg)
Knigin Augusta Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.4
(Berlin)
A close-up of the Preuen swept-wing eagle Garde

Grenadier Wappen (front plate) which had been worn
since 1842. The regiments of the Garde Grenadier were
not allowed to wear the Garde star until 28 August 1889.
With the Garde Grenadier eagle Wappen removed, the old "rear" of the
helmet and stitching is revealed, indicating that this helmet was originally
an M1842, M1856, or M1860 pattern Pickelhaube before it was converted
to an M1867.
A notable change on the M1867 was with the method for retaining the
54
eagle Wappen (front plate). The threaded bolts on the reverse of the
Wappen were replaced with two sliders that slid into two corresponding
mounts secured to the outside of the helmet.
This helmet shows evidence of being re-worked more

than once, as it appears to initially have had a M1860
eagle Wappen with screw-posts attached when it was
converted to an M1867, and then later updated with
M67 slider mounts for the Garde Grenadier Wappen.
55
A view of the reverse of the eagle Wappen with the two

sliders for retaining the eagle Wappen onto the helmet.
A view of the rear showing that like a typical M1867 helmet, there is no
rear spine as per the M1867 regulations.
56
57
A view of the Model 1867 Preuen Garde Grenadier

Pickelhaube profile. Note that there is no rear spine. As
the Garde Grenadier were titled Regiments, they were
allowed to wear a Haarbusch (parade plume). To
accommodate a Haarbusch, the spike top is removable. .
On all four sides of the round base are filled holes where the previous
cruciform spike base was mounted.
58
59
On what is now the back of the helmet, are filled holes for a two different
Wappens on which was originally the 'front' of the helmet.
60
The liner of the issued M1867 helmet was heavy leather with rounded
61
"tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit.
As the liners in issued Pickelhauben were essentially the same from 1842
to 1915, this is probably the original liner from when the helmet was a
M1842, M1856, or M1860 pattern Pickelhaube.
Both front and rear visors shows evidence of a filled hole where a rear
spine once was mounted.
This indicates (ready for this?) that the front visor on the helmet, was
62
once a back visor on an earlier pattern!
Under the screw-posts for the flat brass chinsclaes, are holes where the
screw-posts were mounted before the helmet was cut down to reduce the
height.
The Battle of Gravelotte-St. Privat
63
The incredible painting above is from my favorite

German artist Herr Carl Rchling (1855-1920) depicting
soldiers of the Garde-Korps during the famous attack on
St. Privat 18 Aug 1870. Men are depicted wearing a mix
of
M1860
and
M1867
helmets.
The Battle of Gravelotte-St. Privat (August 18, 1870)
during the Franco-Preuen war occurred in these small
villages in Lorraine about six miles west of Metz, France
and was the largest battle during the war.
On August 18, 1870 the Preuens, having on the
64
previous day intercepted the French army's retreat to

the west at the battle of Mars-La-Tour, now closed in to
complete the destruction of the French forces. The
battle began at 08:00 when the German Commander
von Moltke ordered the First and Second Armies to
advance against the heavily fortified French positions.
The French, once aware of the Preuen advance,
opened up a massive fire and soon the Preuen infantry
were pinned down by murderous rifle and mitrailleuse
fire
from
the
French
positions.
By 16:50, with the Preuen southern attacks in danger
of breaking up, the Preuen Garde launched an attack
against the French positions at St-Privat and were soon
found themselves pinned down by lethal French fire
from the rifle pits and trenches. Seeing the grim
situation of the Preuen Garde, Prince Frederick Charles
ordered a massed artillery attack against the French
positions at St. Privat. With this massive artillery
support, the survivors of the Garde Division launched a
fresh attack against the ruins of St. Privat resulting in the
capture of the village. The next morning, the French
Army of the Rhine, rather than resume the battle with
an attack of its own against the battle-weary German
armies, retreated to Metz where they were besieged
and forced to surrender two months later.
65
The casualties were horrendous on all sides; a total of

20,163 German troops were killed, wounded or missing
in action during the August 18 battle. Losses of the
Preuen Garde Division were staggering, with 8,000
casualties out of 18,000 men. French losses were 7,855
killed and wounded along with 4,420 prisoners of war
(half of these wounded), for a total of 12,275.
Experience in the
Franco-Preuen war of
1870 to 1871 proved
that the slider system
for securing the
Wappen (front plate)
was inadequate, as
field use often resulted
in helmet Wappens
being lost. As a result,
the proven threaded
bolt and nut was
reinstated to replace
the unsuccessful slider
system.
At the same time a
rear spine with hidden
bolts soldered to the
underside of the spine
was introduced as the
helmet proved to be
M1871 Preuia Eisenbahn Regiment
66
too weak without it.

Front Wappen
Spike Base
Side & Liner
Rear Spine
Side Post
Members of the
Garde wearing
issued M1871
Pickelhaube.
67
A side view of the Model 1871 Pickelhaube. For some reason, these
are often higher than M1860 or M1867 examples.
68
The liner of the M1871 remained the same as for the M1842 helmet.
69
The M1871 spike remained quite tall, and maintained the Perlring for all
issued helmets. The top for this example is removable, as this Regiment was
entitled to wear a parade plume. The twin vent holes in this helmet is
capable of being closed to prevent excessive ventilation. Rather than being
soldered on, the Perlring can be rotated to close the twin vents on the spike
neck.
70
A view of the issued M1871 Wappen (front plate) for Garde units. The
M1867 slider system was replaced in 1871 by the proven system of a
threaded bolt soldered to the reverse of the plate, and secured to the helmet
shell by an internal brass nut.
71
A rear view showing the massive rear visor and tall spike. The rear spine of
the M1871 is secured to the helmet shell by threaded studs soldered to the
underside of the spine. This cleaned up the external appearance somewhat,
as the exposed studs from the M1860 were no longer visible.
72
A view of the threaded screw post and flat brass chinscales for all Infantry
units. The Preuen Kokarde is sheet metal.
73
Several changes were introduced in

1887 to reduce the amount of brass
used and to simplify construction. The
body was reduced in height and the
front brass or silver peak trim was
removed and replaced by a ribbed edge
pressed directly into the leather,
identical to that of the Preuen pattern
Tschako.
Other significant changes included a
new pattern of leather chinstrap and a
shorter spike with five ventilation holes
and no Perlring.
Photo German Army Museum Rastatt
For Foot Troops, the brass chinscales were changed to an adjustable

leather chinstrap which hooked onto a loop and hook system which
replaced the previous threaded screw-post. Garde Regiments were fitted
with their same brass or silver chinscales, but with the unique M1887
hook and eye.
The intent was for these metal chinscales to be worn only on parade and
in garrison; for field duty the helmets of Garde Regiments would be fitted
with leather chinstraps as worn by the Line Regiments.
74
To further aid in ventilation, the M1887 spike was significantly shorter

than previous models. The previous twin ventilation holes on the spike
neck were increased to five or six, although it seems that few contingents
used six ventilation holes, as these seem to be found only on helmets
from Baden and Hessen.
For foot troops the rounded Perlring on the spike neck was replaced by a
solitary protruding ring around the circumference of the spike neck.
Cavalry, however, and apparently Artillery (until 1895?) continued to use
spike necks with a Perlring.
75
Although more suitable for the Pickelhaube Characteristics & Rank Guide, a
few significant changes to the Preuen eagle Wappens occurred between
1887 and 1891 that are worth mentioning here. The regiments of the Garde
Grenadier who since 1842 had worn a swept-wing eagle Wappen without the
Garde star, were appointed to wear the Garde star by AKO 28 August 1889.
In 1888, the first pattern Grenadier line eagle Wappen worn by all line
Grenadier Regiments, began to be changed to a swept-wing eagle Wappen
without the Garde star, which had previously been worn by the Garde
Grenadier regiments. The line Grenadier Regts adopted the swept-wing eagle
Wappen and retired the old Grenadier eagle Wappen on the following dates:
1888 by Grenadier Regt. Nr. 4,

1897 by Grenadier Regt. Nr. 2 and 7,
1898 by Grenadier Regt. Nr. 8,
1901 by Grenadier Regt. Nr. 3, and
1913 by Grenadier Regts. Nr. 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, and 12.
76
The features introduced in 1887 proved to be completely unsatisfactory; the

front visors were easily damaged without the leather trim and the loop and
hook system used to hold on the leather chinstrap resulted in chinstraps
being lost. An AKO of 08 January 1891 introduced a new model of
Pickelhaube which attempted to address these shortcomings.
The brass front visor trim was reintroduced and a new and ingenious
system of securing the chinstrap was introduced. The leather chinstrap
was changed to a double buckle and the end of the strap was fitted with a
brass loop with a cut "V". The chinstrap loop was designed to fit onto the
corresponding post, keeping it secure but allowing easy removal.
Unfortunately, this easy removal explains why so many surviving
examples are missing the leather chinstraps today.
Generally, soldiers of the Garde Infantry retained their flat silver or brass
chinscales in garrison and replaced them with the M91 leather chinstrap
in the field.
77
M1891 Preuen Infanterie Regt Nr. 83
1891 also brought about a final reduction in the height of the helmet, giving
it a more domed appearance that remained for the life of the Pickelhaube.
The eagle Wappen was also reduced in size to 115mm and obtained a more
refined shape. For the first time, the gap between the wings and the legs was
now voided. Like it's predecessors, the M1891 utilized threaded bolts on the
reverse to secure it to the helmet shell. The final modification was the
introduction of a new 48mm Kokarde with a large center hole to fit the M91
chinstrap posts.
78
Front Plate
Spike Base
Side & Liner
Rear Spine
Side Post
This period photo shows an issued

M1891 Garde Pickelhaube worn by a
veteran of the Franco-Preuen war.
Note the flat chinscales secured by
M91 posts.
79
A view of the much lower profile of a M1891 helmet.
80
The liner of the M1891 remained virtually the same as for the M1842 helmet.
81
A view of the spike and base on a M1891 helmet. On M1891 helmets, the
spike is considerably shorter than the M1871. This change occurred on the
M1887 helmet.
82
A view of the M1891 reuced size Wappen (front plate) for line Regiments.
The plate continued to use threaded bolts soldered to the reverse of the
plate, and was secured to the helmet shell by internal brass nuts.
83
The rear spine of the M1891 remained unchanged from the M1871 and
M1887 helmets.
84
On the Model 1891 post, the leather chinstrap was changed to a double
buckle, and the end of the strap was fitted with a brass loop with a cut "V".
The chinstrap loop was designed to fit onto the corresponding M91 post,
keeping it secure but allowing easy removal. Unfortunately, this easy
removal explains why so many surviving examples are missing the leather
chinstraps.

To improve ventilation, on the Model 1895 issued Pickelhaube the rear spine
on helmets worn by Foot Troops was equipped with a vent near the base of
the spike which was fitted with a small sliding cover. This sliding cover
allowed the user to increase or decrease the flow of ventilation in the helmet
according to the weather conditions. This sliding vent appears to have been
85
only utilized on Infantry helmets. Artillery and other troops did not adopt this
feature until some time in 1914.
The spike remained the same as the Model 1887 and the Model 1891,
however, the rotating neck was removed.
The soldered bolt and nut system used to secure the front Wappen onto
the helmet was changed to a system for retaining Wappen on the front of
helmets that had been used as far back as 1845 for Bayern (Bavarian)
helmets and 1867 for Sachsen (Saxon) helmets. A soldered loop was
affixed to the back of the Wappen which passed through corresponding
grommetted holes on the front of the helmet. A leather wedge was then
passed through the loop on the interior to keep the Wappen in place.
The Preuen issued Wappen in 1895 were intended to be made out of
Tombak (an alloy made from a combination of copper and zinc) but it
seems that the copper-color was unpopular and they were soon replaced
with Aluminiumbronze which has a very bright brass appearance.
86
M1895 Preuia Infantry Regt 31 Reserve
Front Wappen
Spike Base
Side & Liner
Rear Spine
1897 Reichs-Kokarde
87
Plate Loops
In 1897 a new ReichsKokarde in Red-WhiteBlack was introduced

for all ranks to
commemorate the
100th anniversary of
the birth of Kaiser
Wilhelm 1st. The
Reichs-Kokarde was to
be worn on the right
side of the helmet, and
the state Kokarde was
moved to the left.

M1895 shows the vented spike
neck and M1891 leather chinstrap.
88
A side view showing the classic squared shape of the M1895 pattern
Pickelhaube.
89
The liner of the M1895 changed very little, except that the leather on
surviving examples tends to be thinner than older helmets. The helmet now
weighed considerably less and the heavier leather liner was not required.
90
The spike remained the same as the Model 1887 and the Model 1891,
however, the rotating neck was removed.
91
A view of the M1895 Wappen (front plate) for Reserve and Landwehr
Regiments. Note that the Fatherland Bandeau is absent on Reserve and
Landwehr helmet Wappen, replaced by a silver Reserve cross. The obverse of
the Wappen is identical to the M1891, but secured by soldered loops that
pass through corresponding holes on the front of the helmet.
92
A rear view showing the 1895 sliding air vent on the rear spine.
93
A view of the soldered loop that passed through corresponding holes on the
front of the helmet. A leather wedge was then passed through the loop on
the interior to keep the plate in place.
Model 1895 Preuen Landwehr Infantry Regt 31
Model 1895 Preuen Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube for

Landwehr Inf. - Regt. Graf Bose (1. Thringisches) Nr. 31, Altona IX.
Armee-Korps. This helmet still retains the original high gloss finish.
A man could shave looking at his reflection in this helmet; it is
94
exceptionally rare for issued Pickelhaubes to still retain the original highgloss
of
the
lacquer
as
this
example
does.
*NOTE* This is my first Pickelhaube, obtained in 1976 when I was fifteen
years old!
95
A view of the M1895 Wappen (front plate) for Reserve

and Landwehr Regiments. Note that the Fatherland
Bandeau is absent on Reserve and Landwehr helmet
Wappen, replaced by a silver Reserve cross. The obverse
of the Wappen is identical to the M1891, but secured by
soldered loops that pass through corresponding holes on
the front of the helmet.
96
97
A side view showing the classic squared shape of the

M1895 pattern Pickelhaube.
The liner of this M1895 example.
98
The helmet is unit and owner marked "Oelze LIR 31" (Landwehr Infanterie
99
Regiment Nr. 31) in pencil on the rear visor.
Two young soldiers wearing

Model 1895 Pickelhaube. The
tunics are dunkelblau with
Brandenburg cuffs. Note the
white cotton drill-trousers.
100
Model 1895 Preuen Infantry Regt 145
Model 1895 Preuen Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Infantry Regt 145

Pickelhaube for Knigs - Inf. Regt (6. Lothringisches) Nr. 145 Metz, XVI
Armee-Korps. As this was a titled regiment, it was entitled to wear a
parade plume, and therefore the spike top is removable. Unlike the
Line Infantry who went to only leather M91 chinstraps in 1891, Garde
Infantry and some titled Regiments such as IR145 retained flat
chinscales in Garrison and only removed them in the field, where a
leather chinstrap was worn.
101
102
A view of the issued IR 145 Wappen (front plate). This style of Grenadier
eagle Wappen was not authorized for this Regiment until 1913. The
adoption of Field Grey helmets in 1915 make this pattern all the more
scarce.
103
A view of the reverse of the Grenadier Wappen shows that the loops for
the M1895 pattern Grenadier eagle Wappen are close-together to fit the
holes of the replaced Line Eagle Wappen as of 1913. This indicates the
eagle Wappen was never used on a Grenadier Pickelhaube, and was made
to accommodate the old holes of this IR145 example.
The rear of this example.
104
105
A view of the side profile. Note the standard rear air vent for a Model
1895, and low, squat shape typical of later Pickelhauben.
The liner remains in good condition.
106
The helmet is unit marked KJR 145 for Knigs-Infanterie-Regt. (6.

Lothringisches) Nr.145 on the rear visor.
107
The spike top is removable to accomodate a parade plume.
108
The preuische Versuchshelm Model 1905/06

In 1905 and into 1906 a new preuische Versuchshelm (Prussian
experimental helmet) was introduced that was essentially a M1895 with
Feldgrau felt covering the top leather shell. The front and rear visors
remained as per the M1895 in black lacquered leather.
Although there were other experimental Pickelhaube produced, such as
the Versuchshelm 1908 (with removable spike, which would later appear
on the M1915) the Versuchshelm Model 1905/06 was the only
109
experimental helmet produced in significant amounts and distributed to

regular units. The fittings were essentially the same as the M1895, with
fittings in silver or gilt dependant on the unit.
M1905 Preuen Infantry
110
Front Wappen
Felt and
Stitching
Side & Liner
Rear Spine
Interior
Construction
Photo used with the kind permission of

Robert Hinesley
The M1905/06 proved to be unpopular with both soldiers and

commanders as it could not be shined for parades or in garrison, which
resulted in being withdrawn from service in 1906.
In 1914 to meet the demands of mobilization, the stockpiled M1905/06
were re-issued to troops and are often confused with Ersatz felt
Pickelhaubes that have had leather visors attached in repair depots.
111
A view of the Model 1905/06 Experimental Pickelhaube profile.
112
The liner is the standard Pickelhaube heavy leather pattern and in

remarkable condition.
113
Note that from the bottom, the Model 1905/06 Experimental Pickelhaube
looks like a standard M1895.
A view of the left rear visor shows how the visors and the ear-leather under
the M1891 pattern chinstrap post, were sewn over the felt covering.
114
The rear M1895 pattern spine and air vent is slightly off-center, revealing the
stitching where the felt covering was sewn together over the helmet shell.
115
A view of the Preuen Line Wappen (front plate) for Mannschaften (Other
Ranks), identical to the Model 1895.
116
A rear view of the helmet.

Carefully looking between the felt and the shell, reveals that unlike a
standard M1895 Pickelhaube, the outside of the shell on these helmets was
not lacquered. A moth hole on the outside also reveals the rough leather of
the outside of the shell, with no lacquer.
117
Flipping the liner up, reveals how the felt cover is sewn between the shell
and the liner.
Ersatz Helmets
118
To meet with the demands

imposed by the Aug 1914
declaration of war, the Germans
began manufacturing helmets
from Ersatz (substitute) materials.
Felt, tin, steel and fiber are the
most common encountered.
Helmets can be found with brass
and silver fittings as
manufacturers used up remaining
parts from pre-war helmets, and
eventually M1915 grey steel
fittings as the war progressed.
Ersatz M1895/97 Preuia Line Infantry Regt
Surviving examples can also be

found with or without front visor
trims, rear spines, or Kokarden.
Please see the Kaiser's Bunker
Pickelhaube Guide for further
information and examples.
M1915 Artillery utilizes M1895 brass
fittings.
119
Preuische Versuchshelm Model 1905/06
Preuische Versuchshelm (Experimental Pickelhaube) Model 1905/06.

In 1905 and into 1906 a new Pickelhaube was introduced that was
essentially a M1895 with Feldgrau felt covering the top leather shell.
Front and rear visors remained as per the M1895 in black lacquered
leather.
120
This Pickelhaube is believed to have been produced in

significant amounts and distributed to regular units with
fittings in silver or gilt dependant on the unit. The
M1905/06 proved to be unpopular with both soldiers
and commanders as it could not be shined for parades
or in garrison, which resulted in being withdrawn from
service in 1906.
121
A view of the Preuen Line Wappen (front plate) for

Mannschaften (Other Ranks).
A view of the left rear visor shows how the visors and the ear-leather
under the M1891 pattern chinstrap post, were sewn over the felt
covering.
122
The rear M1895 pattern spine and air vent is slightly off-center, revealing
the stitching where the felt covering was sewn together over the helmet
shell.
123
124
A view of the Model 1905/06 Experimental Pickelhaube

profile.
A rear view of the helmet.
125
The liner is the standard Pickelhaube heavy leather pattern and in

remarkable condition. Note that from the bottom, the Model 1905/06
Experimental Pickelhaube looks like a standard M1895.
126
Flipping the liner up, reveals how the felt cover is sewn between the shell
and the liner.
127
Carefully looking between the felt and the shell, reveals

that unlike a standard M1895 Pickelhaube, the outside
of the shell on these helmets was not lacquered. A moth
hole on the outside also reveals the rough leather of the
outside of the shell, with no lacquer.
Beside the grommet for the M1895 pattern loop holding the eagle
Wappen on, is a familiar manufacturer's stamp, "Maury & Co, Offenbach".
128
In 1914 to meet the

demands of
mobilization, the
stockpiled M1905/06
were re-issued to
troops and are often
confused with Ersatz
felt Pickelhaubes that
have had leather visors
attached in repair
depots.
129
In 1915, the end of the Pickelhaube had come; the expensive brass and
German silver fittings on all issued helmets were changed to steel to free
up brass and silver needed for the war effort. The reflective fittings on
pre-war helmets had also proved to be a liability in wartime, so the grey
steel fittings served two purposes. The steel fittings were not painted;
they were chemically oxidized to give them a flat non-reflective finish and
and can be encountered in many shades of grey. The M1915 pattern was
introduced on 28 June 1915, with Bayern (Bavaria) also adopting the
pattern
on
11
Nov
1915.
In an effort to make the wearer less obvious and visible, the spike was
now removable. The spike was slotted and fit into a corresponding
bayonet-style lug on the round spike base. Helmets from this period tend
to reflect the war time economy, and are usually made from a much
130
thinner leather than older helmets. The leather liners in particular

suffered as a result of the shortage, and surviving examples can be found
with paper thin, fragile liners.
M1915 Preuia Line Infantry Regt
Wappen (Front
Plate)
Spike Base
Side & Liner
Rear Spine
Side Post
This period photo shows a young

man wearing an issued M1915
Garde Infantry Pickelhaube.
131
A view of the profile of a M1915 helmet. It is essentially identical to an

M1895.
132
The liners of M1915 helmets reflect the war time economy, and are usually
made from a much thinner leather than older helmets. The leather liners on
surviving examples can be paper thin and fragile. The liner on this example is
in mint condition and unissued. The original leather string remains intact
with the knot as supplied by the Quartermaster.
133
A view of the spike base and removable spike on the M1915 helmet. The
spike was slotted to fit into a corresponding bayonet-style lug on the round
spike base. To aid in ventilation, the five vent holes on the spike neck were
retained.
134
As with all M1915 helmets, the spikes for Infantry and cavalry, as well as the
Kugel (ball) tops for Artillery were slotted and fit into a corresponding
bayonet-style lug on the round spike base.
135
The brass and German silver fittings of all M1915 issued helmets were
changed to steel to free up brass and silver for the war effort. The Wappens
continued to be secured using the M1895 loop system.
136
The rear spine on the M1915 was identical to the M1895 helmet, except that
it was now manufactured from grey chemically oxidized steel. The vent with
the small sliding cover was retained.
137
A view of the M91 post, unchanged from 1891, except now made from steel.
Epilogue
Introduced in 1842, the long-serving Pickelhaube was finally replaced
in 1916 by the German Stahlhelm (steel helmet). It had served the
Preuen troops through wars and through peace, and will forever be
connected with the Preuen rise from a small kingdom to a major
world power.
It was worn by generations of soldiers in wars with the Danes,
Austrians, and most notably in the defeat of France in the FrancoPreuen War which resulted in the unification of the German
states
in
1871.
138
The soldiers of a united Germany marched to Armageddon in

1914 wearing the Pickelhaube which was to spell the end of an
era.
With the dissolution of Preuen in 1947 by the Allies, the small
municipality, which grew to a Kingdom and eventually an empire,
moved into history and joined the Pickelhaube it had introduced
as a symbol of a past era.
Model 1891 Preuen Infantry Regt 83
139
Model 1891 Preuen Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube for

Infanterie-Regt. von Wittich (3.Kurhessisches) Nr.83 (Cassel; III Bn
Arolsen) XI Armee Korps.
An AKO of 08 January 1891 introduced the Model 1891 Pickelhaube
which attempted to address the shortcomings of the Model 1887.
The M1891 was reduced in height but retained the spike, base, rear spine
and liner of the M1887. Brass or silver front visor trim was added as well
140
as two new features: a reduced size eagle Wappen and an ingenious system
of securing a new design of leather chinstrap on side mounts. Note that
prior to 1897, only a single Kokarde was worn on the right side (as worn).
The left side had no Kokarde.
As older helmets were constantly modified and updated in the German
confederation, it is very unusual to find a surviving original M1891 that
has not been modified to an M1895 or M1915.
A view of the M1891 reduced size Wappen (front plate) for line Regiments.
The eagle Wappen was reduced in size to 115mm and obtained a more refined
shape. For the first time, the gap between the wings and the legs was now
voided. Like it's predecessors, the M1891 utilized threaded bolts on the
reverse to secure it to the helmet shell with internal brass nuts.
141
The rear spine of the M1891 remained unchanged from the M1871 and
M1887 helmets with no air vent.
142
A view of the spike and base on a M1891 helmet. On M1891 helmets, the
spike is considerably shorter than the M1871. This change occurred on the
M1887 helmet.
143
Like earlier models, the neck of the spike rotates to close the vent holes. This
was a standard feature until 1895.
The Model 1891 introduced a new leather chinstrap with double sliding
buckles with brass loops at each end with a cut "V". The chinstrap loop
was designed to fit onto the corresponding post, keeping it secure but
allowing
easy
removal.
The M1891 post is longer and sturdier when compared to the posts on the
Model 1895 which followed.
144
1891 brought about a final reduction in the height of the helmet, giving it a
more domed appearance although the front and rear visors are quite large; an
influence from the M1871 and M1887 Pickelhaube. The helmet leather
overall is very thick resulting in a much heavier and robust helmet when
compared to following helmets like the Model 1895.
145
The liner of this M1891 example is made from the standard heavy leather
with 'fingers' for a cord to adjust the fit.
146
The helmet is unit marked in white paint on the interior to "83. R." and
dated 1891.
Could there be any better date on a M1891?
A view of the front interior showing the brass nuts that hold the Wappen
on.
Preuen Garde Infantry Officer
147
Preuen Garde Infantry Officer's Pickelhaube.

This helmet was worn by the following Infantry Regiments in the GardeKorps:
2. Garde-Regt. zu Fu (Berlin)
Kaiser Alexander Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.1 (Berlin)
Kaiser Franz Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.2 (Berlin)
Knigin Elisabeth Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.3 (Charlottenburg)
Knigin Augusta Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.4 (Berlin)
Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.5 (Spandau)
148
149
A view of the Preuen Garde Infantry Officer's front plate. Note the voided
crown and sharp detail.
This pattern of Garde star is found on officer Pickelhauben. Note the star is
quite pronounced and has an enameled center. Including the curvature of
the eagle, the star measures 20mm in depth. As for all Garde helmet plates,
this pattern is found in gilded brass or frosted silver depending on the
Regiment. It must be emphasized that only officers, or men serving in
150
officer positions were allowed to wear this pattern of helmet plate.
151
A view of the side profile. Note how far the Garde star protrudes on the front
of the eagle Wappen.
152
The helmet liner is the officer pattern with a high quality calf-skin
sweatband coupled by a silk skull cap.
The curling of the rear visors is a common occurance on officer
Pickelhaube.
Reserve Senior NCO Pickelhaube for a Preuen Line Infanterie-Regt
Eigetumsstck (privately purchased) Pickelhaube from one of the Line-
153
Infantry Regiments for a Reserve Unteroffizier mit Portepee.

Unteroffizier mit Portepee were the two highest ranks of NCO who were
entitled to wear the Officer's sword knot and wear the special Unteroffizier
mit Portepee Kokarde with seperate metal ring overlay on the Pickelhaube.
The two ranks of Unteroffizier mit Portepee were Feldwebel (Company
Sergeant Major / First Sergeant in the US) and Vizefeldwebel (Company
Warrant-officer / Master Sergeant in the US).
Each infantry Battalion normally had four Feldwebel (one for each
Company) who was the Etatmssiger Feldwebel - 'Der Spiess' who wore
the double rows of NCO braid on the cuffs. The Vizefeldwebel wore the
single row of NCO lace on the collar and cuffs.
154
155
A view of the officer quality Preuen Reserve Wappen (front plate) with Reserve cross.
This high quality Wappen retains most of the original mercury-gilding with polished
high and low areas such as the feathers to add contrast to the gilding. Unfortunately the
little eagle on the sceptre has literally 'lost his head'. Note the voided crown and that
there is no "Fatherland" Bandeau. Unlike the issued Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
Wappen which carried the Landwehr cross on the chest for Landwehr and Reserve, for
officers and private-purchased eagle Wappen it was different; for Reserve the Landwehr
cross was mounted to the tail feathers, for Landwehr the Landwehr cross was on the
chest. For both, there was no "Fatherland" Bandeau.
156
A view of the tall spike with rounded spike base studs; the spike top is not
removable to accommodate a Haarbusch.
Note the M1871 pattern rounded Perling, which was a private-purchase
option often seen on helmets worn by Privates to Unteroffizier mit
Portepee. This gave rise to the collector's "NCO Perlring" urban-myth,
although in fact, this helmet was worn by a Senior-NCO as indicated by the
Kokarden. In this case, however, the owner simply opted to purchase this
pattern of spike base, it had nothing to do with his rank.
157
Note that the rear spine does not incorporate the M1895 rear sliding air
vent, correct for a private purchase pattern helmet.
158
A side profile of this example which shows the Unteroffizier mit Portepee Kokarde with
the additional silver metal ring with a distinctive diagonal ribbing; this pattern of
Kokarde only worn by Unteroffizier mit Portepee entitled to wear the officer's sword
knot.
The liner of this example is high quality with internal leather sweatband
and silk skull-cap.
The underside of the front visor is exposed leather, with only the rear one
covered in red leatherette.
159
A view of the "Prima Qualltt' (Excellent Quality) inside the leather skull.
160
Model 1867 Baden Infantry
Model 1867 Baden Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube.

This helmet is typical of those worn by some of the contingents in the
Franco-Preuen war. Like a typical M1867 helmet, is has no rear spine as
per the M1867 regulations, but unlike a Preuen M1867 which had a
unique slider to retain the Wappen (front plate) Baden did not adopt this
system and utilized the standard threaded screw posts.
Please refer to "Spiked Helmet Evolution" under "Reference and
Information Pages" on the main index page for details. The helmet is state
marked with a branded Baden shield on the rear visor and carries no other
markings.
161
162
A view of the Baden Mannschaften Wappen (front plate).
The liner of this M1867 Pickelhaube.
163
164
The helmet is state marked with a branded Baden shield on the rear visor.
165
166
Model 1895 Baden Leib-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.109 Pickelhaube
167
Model 1895 Badisches Leib-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.109 (Karlsruhe) XIV

Armee Korps Pickelhaube.
As this was a titled regiment, it was entitled to wear a parade plume, and
therefore the spike top is removable.
The Pickelhaube is configured as a correct M1895 with sliding vent on the
rear spine, and leather chinstrap with silver fittings on M1891 mounts.
168
A view of the Baden Leib-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.109 Wappen (front plate) for

Mannschaften (Other Ranks).
169
The liner is the standard Pickelhaube heavy leather pattern and in good
condition.
170
The rear profile of this example, showing the M1895 air vent.
171
172
A view of the Pickelhaube profile showing the stamped brass Baden Kokarde.
The right rear visor is marked "R.109" and "1913" in two boxes.
The inside is nicely stamped in an oval "Hans Rmer Neu Ulm" and dated
1913 in the center.
173
A view of a group of soldiers from Baden Leib-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.109.

Baden Infantry Officer to Parade
Baden Infantry Officer's parade Pickelhaube. The Yak hair plume and
parade Trichter are removable and can replaced with a spike for all other
orders of dress.
174
175
A view of the Baden Officer's front plate. Note the voided crown and sharp detail.
A close-up of the waffled Baden Officer Kokarde.
The liner remains in good condition. The curling of the rear visors is a
common occurance on officer Pickelhaube.
176
177
A Baden Infantry Officer poses for

the camera in this 1889 dated
photograph. Note the Baden Infantry
Officer's Pickelhaube with spike
sitting on the table.
Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92 Senior NCO

Pickelhaube
Eigetumsstck (privately purchased) Pickelhaube from
Braunschweigisches Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92 (Braunschweig) for an
Unteroffizier mit Portepee.
Unteroffizier mit Portepee were the two highest ranks of NCO who were
entitled to wear the Officer's sword knot and wear the special Unteroffizier
mit Portepee Kokarde with seperate metal ring overlay on the Pickelhaube.
The two ranks of Unteroffizier mit Portepee were Feldwebel (Company
Sergeant Major / First Sergeant in the US) and Vizefeldwebel (Company
Warrant-officer / Master Sergeant in the US).
Each infantry Battalion normally had four Feldwebel (one for each
Company) who was the Etatmssiger Feldwebel - 'Der Spiess' who wore
the double rows of NCO braid on the cuffs. The Vizefeldwebel wore the
single row of NCO lace on the collar and cuffs.
178
179
A view of the Braunschweig Wappen (front plate) for Mannschaften (Other

Ranks) with Totenkopf with Neusilber (nickel-silver) Totenkopf above
"PENINSULA" Bandeau mounted to a Preuen pattern eagle Wappen, with
"FUERST" Bandeau on the chest instead of the Preuen "KOENIG" Bandeau.
Although the Wappen is high quality and private purchase pattern (screw post
retainers) the crown is not voided.
180
To accommodate a Haarbusch, the tall spike is removable.

This is important, as if there was doubt about the Wappen being original to
the helmet, with a removable spike top it would limit the helmet as being
from one of the regiments that wore a Preuen Grenadier eagle Wappen or
those with a with a smaller State Wappen overlaid on the eagle who were
entitled to wear a Haarbusche. Only Grenadier Regts 2 to 9 (with the old
Grenadier Wappen), and the other Regts with equally rare Wappen, like IR
91, 93, 94, 95, 96, and 153 would qualify.
181
Note that the rear spine does not incorporate the M1895 rear sliding air
vent, correct for a private purchase pattern helmet.
A view of the 51mm Braunschweig Unteroffizier mit Portepee Kokarde

with the additional gilt ring with a distinctive diagonal ribbing; this pattern
of Kokarde only worn by Unteroffizier mit Portepee entitled to wear the
officer's sword knot.
What make these Kokarden interesting, is that they are not cut to fit the
182
M91 side posts; they are small-hole private-purchase pattern, and the M91
posts have been placed on the outside.
With the Wappen carefully removed, the 'ghost' becomes visible where it
has sat for over 90 years.
The liner of this example is of the highest quality available with internal
leather sweatband and silk skull-cap.
The underside of the visors, however, are exposed leather, which places
this example in the medium-quality range.
183
The paper tag inside between the nuts for the Wappen reads:
OEKONOMIE (Company name)
Kunstinstitut (art institute)
fr galvanische Erneuerung (for electroplating renewal)
Inh. E Lazarus (name of the company owner)
Berlin C. a.d. Spandauerbr. 4-5 (company address)
Kopfweite (helmet size)
Com. Nr. (claim number)
184
For interest, here are three straps pattern worn by Braunschweigisches

Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92.
On the left, the dark blue pattern with black cypher worn on the
Braunschweig Polrock (which looked like a Husaren Attila) until 1886
with cord cypher, in the centre the white strap with red chain-stitched and
felt cypher cypher worn after Braunschweig adopted the Preuen pattern
Waffenrock in 1886, and on the right the M1915 strap worn on the M1915
Bluse.
185
Model 1895 Preuen (Hannover) Infantry Regt 78
Model 1895 Preuen (Hannover) Infantry Regt 78 Mannschaften (Other

Ranks) Pickelhaube for Inf. - Regt. Friedrich Wilhelm von Braunschweig
(Ostfiesisches) Nr. 78, Osnabrck X.Armee-Korps.
186
A view of the issued IR 78 Wappen (front plate). On Mannschaften (Other Ranks)

helmets, the Bandeau is part of the stamping.
187
The liner of this M1895 example. The helmet retains the original leather
draw-string.
188
A side view showing the clasic Model 1895 shape.
The issue stamps on the rear visor, "OIR78" and "1904".
189
The Waffenrock with matching Krtzchen (cap) and Pickelhaube. This exact helmet
was also worn by 1. Hannoversches Infanterie-Regt. Nr.74 (Hannover) X Armee Korps.
The piping and band on the Krtzchen are in the infantry facing color of red, while the
fittings on the Pickelhaube match the color of the buttons on the Waffenrock. To see the
Waffenrock click Here. To see the Krtzchen click Here.
Model 1867 Oldenberg Infantry Regt 91
Model 1867 Oldenberg Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube

for Oldenburgisches Inf. - Regt. Nr.91 Oldenburg X.Armee-Korps. Unit
marked with a branded OIR 91 on the rear visor.
There were several significant changes made to the M1867 helmets from
the M1860 pattern. These included a round spike base and front visor,
removal of the rear spine, and a new system for securing the front plate.
Please refer to "Spiked Helmet Evolution" on the main index page for
details.
190
191
A view of the M1867 Wappen (front plate) for Oldenburg. Note that for Oldenburg, a
regular Preuen bandeau " MIT GOTT FR KOENIG UND VATERLAND" was used,
superimposed with the Oldenburg Wappen (crest). The M1867 Wappen was secured to
the helmet shell with two flat sliders that replaced the threaded bolts. The plate fit into
corresponding two female slots secured to the front of the helmet.
192
The liner of the M1867 remained the same, but the threaded bolts for
securing the spike base have now been replaced with split brads bent back
against the inside of the helmet.
193
The helmet is unit stamped OIR 91 on the rear visor.
194
(Saxon) Reserve
Infantry Fhnrich (Officer-Candidate)
195
Sachsen Reserve Infantry Fhnrich (Officer-Candidate) Pickelhaube.

Externally, this helmet is identical to an officer's helmet except that it
lacks the officer's Perlring around the neck of the spike. The helmet is
identifiable as a Fhnrich (Officer-Candidate) due to the fact that only
Fhnrich (as non-commissioned officers) were authorized to wear an
officer's Kokarde on an Eigentums-helm (privately purchased helmet).
The spike on this example is extremely tall, being 105 mm (4 1/4 inches)
from the bottom of the ring around the spike base to the spike top.
196
197
A view of the Sachsen Reserve officer's pattern Wappen (front plate).

According to regulations, the reserve cross should be silver. On this example
however, the cross is painted black and appears to be original to the helmet.
198
A rear view.
199
A side view of this example showing the tall spike and that the lacquer still
retains its high gloss finish.
Sachsen officer pattern Kokarden were unique in that they had smooth
edges, not serrated as on other state Kokarden.
200
The helmet liner is the officer pattern with silk skull and leather sweat
band.
Note that the unlike a true officer pattern helmet, the undersides of the
visors are leather and are not covered in green and red leatherette.
201
202
A matching Sachsen (Saxon) Bezirks-Kommando Nr. 69 Waffenrock and

Pickelhaube. In this configuration the man would have been a Sachsen
Reserve Infantry Fhnrich (Officer-Candidate) with the rank of Sergeant. To
see the Waffenrock click Here.
Model 1871 Wrttemberg Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube. This
helmet is a fine example of an Eigentums-helm which is a Pickelhaube that
was privately purchased by an individual. An Eigentums-helm could be
purchased by any soldier dependant upon the wealth of the individual,
but they were usually purchased for wear by Einjhrig-Freiwilliger (One
year volunteer) and Fhnrich.
This helmet was worn by the following two Regiments in the XIII Armee-
203
Korps:
Grenadier Regt. Knigin Olga (1.Wrttembergisches) Nr. 119,

(Stuttgart)
Grenadier-Regiment Knig Karl (5. Wrttembergisches) Nr.123 (
Ulm)
204
The rear of this example, which has a typical mounted-troops smooth rear
spine without air vent.
The "Extra" pattern of privately purchased liner is identified by having

squared off tongues to the liner. The leather is a higher quality and it was
felt that this style of liner afforded more comfort. This pattern of liner was
also worn by officers until 1880. This pattern is also commonly
encountered on Eigentums-helm.
205
Model 1895 Sachsen (Saxon) Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
206
Pickelhaube for Knigl. Schs. 12 Inf. - Regt. Nr 177, Dresden XII.

Armee-Korps.
A view of the rear of the helmet. Note the M1895 sliding rear vent on the
rear spine.
207
The liner of this M1895 example. As is typical for a Pickelhaube, the rear
visor has curled somewhat from age. Hey! You would be too if you were
almost 100years old!
208
The helmet is Army Korps and unit marked "BAXII 18" on the rear visor
.
209
A view of the Sachsen pattern rounded Kokarde. The Reich's Kokarde on

the opposite side is also rounded
210
Model 1868 Bayerische (Bavarian) Jger

Battalion Raupenhelm
211
Model 1868 Bayerische (Bavarian) Jger Battalion Raupenhelm. The thick

leather body has a large wool "Raupe" (literally: caterpillar) on the top
and was worn from 1800 to 1886 undergoing numerous modifications.
This pattern of Raupenhelm was worn by any one of the 10 Bayerisches
Jger Battalions.
Unlike a Pickelhaube where the visors were lacquered and then are sewn
onto the outside of the lacquered shell, on Raupenhelm the visors were
sewn to the shell under the impressed edge after which the entire helmet
was lacquered. The lack of visible sewing on the exterior for the visors
gives the appearance that the helmet is one piece.
A view of the Model 1868Bayerische

(Bavarian) Jger Battalion Raupenhelm
212
profile.
A view of the two-piece Bayern (Bavaria) Wappen (front plate) worn from
1868 to 1886. The Wappen is held on with loops that pierce the helmet
shell, and are retained onto the shell with leather wedges.
This identical system was adopted by Preuen (Prussia) in 1895 for her
issued Wappen.
213
A close up of the green Jger wool "Huppe" on the left side of the helmet
above the single Bayern Kokarde. Infantry Regiments did not carry the
addition wool Huppe; a colored wool Huppe was carried by Jger (green),
Schtzen (green), Sanittskompanien (red), and Chevaulegers (white).
The silver Bayern Kokarde at one time would have carried a center blue-
214
painted ring, however, over time, the paint has fallen off of this example.
The leather chinstrap was riveted onto a brass end piece, which is
wrapped around a brass ring held in the mouth of a lion head on each side
of the helmet.
215
The rear of the helmet reveals the brass air vent on each side of the shell,
to allow the helmet to ventilate. Note that wool Raupe goes half way
down the rear visor.
216
The liner of the issued M1868 helmet was heavy leather with rounded
"tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit. Note
217
that the "tongues" on leather Raupenhelm liners flare out at the ends,
almost in a teardrop shape. Except for some slight age damage to a few
areas on the edge, the liner is still intact.
The brass loops with leather wedges used to hold on the wool Raupe and
Wappen are visible inside.
The inside of the shell carries a wonderful cloth tag identifying the last
wearer as Jger Sellmeier K.b. 4. Jger Batallion 4. Compagnie.
The remnants of the name tag of the man who was issued this
Raupenhelm before Jger Sellmeier is visible underneath.
218
Between the folded tabs of the air vents is another cloth tag with
"4C1877" (4th Comany 1877).
219
The superb illustration to the left by Darko Pavlovic shows a Bayern Jger.
From: Solka, M. (2005) German Armies 1870-71 (2) Prussia's Allies (Men at
Arms 422).Osprey Publishing, Midland House Oxford.
The collar and cuffs on the pale-blue Waffenrock was green for all Bayern
Jger.
220
Old friends together again; a Model 1868

Bayerische (Bavarian) Jger Battalion
Raupenhelm and a Bayerische Model
1837 water bottle. To see the water bottle
click Here.
Evolution of the Imperial German
Krtzchen and Schirmmtze
Model 1888 Preuen
Landsturm Tschako
Model 1888 Preuen Landsturm Tschako.
The M1888 Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
221
Tschako is identifiable by the single vent on

the side to aid in ventilation.
When the Landwehr adopted the Pickelhaube

1881, the Landwehr Tschakos were retired from
service, so this Tschako would have been
originally Preuen Jger or Train until it was
replaced by a newer model.
In 1914, old Tschakos were dusted off and issued
to the Landsturm in order to meet the needs of
mobilization. This example was upgraded in 1914
by removing the Preuen eagle Wappen and
adding a Landwehr Wappen and Reichskokarde.
In 1916 the old Tschakos were finally retired
when the Landsturm finally adopted the
Pickelhaube.
222
A view of the Preuen Landwehr Mannschaften

Tschako Wappen (front plate) worn by the
Landsturm in 1914. As is typical for these old
Tschakos converted for Landsturm use, the wider
holes where the Preuen eagle Wappen was
mounted have been filled with leather and new
slots cut into the front to accommodate the
Landsturm Wappen. The Wappen is secured to
the Tschako with twin loops with leather wedges,
similar to the M1895 Wappens.
A view of the rear profile of this example.
223
The liner of a Preuen issued Mannschaften

Tschako is essentially identical to a
Pickelhaube.
224
A view of the M1888 Mannschaften Tschako side

profile.
225
A Landsturm soldier
from Landsturm
Battalion #39 taken in
August 1914.
Sachsen (Saxon) Officer's Manver

Tschako.
226
Sachsen (Saxon) officer's Manver Tschako. This pattern of lightweight

Tschako was only worn by officers in: Schs. Schtzen (Fsilier)Regiment Nr.108, Kgl. Schs. Jger-Batl. Nr.12 and 13, and for a short
period, Kgl. Schs. Jger-Batl. Nr.15.
Unlike standard Sachsen Tschako which are made from pressed felt
covered in black cloth, the officer's Manver Tschako was made from
pressed fiber and covered in Wachstuch (oilcloth).
A front view of this example. As the officer's Manver Tschako was
only for field use, the Schtzen or Jger Wappen was not worn.
227
228
A view of the Sachsen officer's Manver Tschako profile. At all times, a

black horse-hair plume was worn on the left side of the Tschako.
Grometted holes on the left side of the Tschako allowed an elastic cord to
hold the black horse-hair plume in place.
Note that this pattern of Tschako does not carry ventilation vents on the
sides.
This photo shows a close-up of the sewing and texture of the Wachstuch
(oilcloth) on the rear of the Tschako. Note that as is typical for any
Wachstuch headgear, the surface has crazed from age
.
The liner is a simple, yet relatively deep calf-skin sweatband without a

silk skull cap.
Although the shell is made from fiber, the interior has also been covered
in Wachstuch (oilcloth).
Note also that the front visor is leather with a sewn leather edge,
identical to the sewn edge on an officer's rear visor on a Pickelhaube.
229
Unlike a standard Tschako which would

have sewn leather roundels overtop of the
leather chinstrap ends, a peculiar feature of
Sachsen officer's Manver Tschako are the
Schirmmtze Kokarden which hold on a
thin leather chinstrap. This unusual feature
is normally found on all surviving Sachsen
officer's Manver Tschako.
230
Model 1867/09 Sachsen

(Saxon) Schtzen NCO Tschako
231
Model 1867/09 Sachsen (Saxon) NCO Tschako from Kgl.

Schs. Schtzen (Fsilier)-Regiment Prinz Georg Nr.108,
Dresden, XII Armee Korps. Sachsen NCOs above the rank
of Unteroffizier wore gilt NCO lace around the collar and
cuffs of the Waffenrock, however, only Sachsen NCOs
for Jger, Train, and Schtzen also wore the NCO lace on
the top of the Tschako as well. Unlike most Sachsen
(Saxon) pattern Tschako which are made from pressed
felt covered in black cloth, this example is an
Eigetumsstck (privately purchased) and is made of
leather covered in black cloth. Sachsen Schtzen
Tschako carried a black horse-hair plume worn on the
left side of the Tschako but at no time did they wear the
cloth Feldzeichen (Field Badge).
Note that this Sachsen Schtzen (Fsilier)-Regiment
Prinz Georg Nr.108 Unteroffizier carries the gilt NCO
lace around the top of the Tschako as well as around
the collar and cuffs of the Waffenrock.
Unlike the other Infantry Regiments of the German
Reich who wore a Dunkelblau (dark blue) Waffenrock
with light blue collar and Swedish cuffs, the Sachsen
Schtzen wore a dark green Waffenrock with black
collar and cuffs piped in red.
232
233
A view of the Sachsen (Saxon)Schtzen Tschako profile.

As this example is an Eigetumsstck (privately
purchased) the leather visor which closely resembled
the French or American Civil-War Kepi, is considerably
shorter than an issued Tschako. At all times, even into
the great war, a black horse-hair plume was worn on
the left side of the Tschako. Grometted holes on the left
side of the Tschako allowed an elastic cord to hold the
black horse-hair plume in place.
A view of the Sachsen (Saxon) Schtzen Tschako
Wappen (front plate). From 1867 until 1909,
Schtzen Regt Nr. 108 wore a Tschako Wappen
similar to the infantry Wappen with gilt star and a
silver center overlay, but at 82mm only 2/3 the size.
On 31 Aug 1909 to celebrate the centennial of
Sachsen Jger and Schtzen, a hunting horn was
added to the Wappen.
234
A rear view of this Tschako showing the sloping shape of

the rear.
This Eigetumsstck (privately purchased) Tschako has
a very high quality liner with a calf-skin sweatband
coupled by a silk skull cap.
It appears at some time there was a paper label
affixed to the top of the interior which has been
unfortunately removed. Why do people remove
items like this? Now that history of the Tschako is
gone forever.
235
This photo shows a Mannschaften shoulder strap

from Kgl. Schs. Schtzen (Fsilier)-Regt. Prinz Georg
Nr.108.
With it, is a commemorative piece to celebrate the
100th anniversary on 31 Aug 1909 when the Sachsen
Schtzen had the hunting horn added to the
Wappen.
236
A matching Waffenrock, Tschako, and Schirmmtze for

a Sergeant in the Kgl. Schs. Schtzen (Fsilier)Regiment Prinz Georg Nr.108, Dresden, XII Armee Korps.
To see the Schirmmtze click Here. To see the
Waffenrock click Here.
237
Model 1871 Preuen

Foot Artillery
Model 1871 Preuen Fu Artillerie
Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube. This
helmet was used by 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 6th
Fuartillerie Regiments.
The helmet is marked "PI AR 1870" on the
rear visor but it is very difficult to make out.
The date, plus the very high profile of the
helmet, indicate that this was possibly an
M1860 helmet, cut down and re-issued as a
M1871.
238
A view of the M1871 front plate for the 1st,

2nd and 3rd Fuartillerie Regiments. The
FWR cypher was unique to these three
regiments of the foot artillery.
A view of the rear showing the plain rear
spine and huge rear visor, typical for an
early helmet.
The liner is made from the typical

heavy-grade leather
.
239
A side view showing the high dome of the

helmet.
Preuen Feldartillerie
240
Regt Senior NCO

Pickelhaube
Preuen Feldartillerie (Field Artillery)
Eigetumsstck (privately purchased)
Pickelhaube for an Unteroffizier mit
Portepee (The two highest rank of NCO, who
were entitled to wear the Officer's sword
knot).
241
A view of the Preuen Wappen (front plate).

This Wappen retains all the original mercurygilding with polished high and low areas such as
the feathers to add contrast to the gilding.
Although the Wappen is of the highest quality
and private purchase pattern (screw post
retainers) the crown is not voided.
To accommodate a Haarbusch, the tall Kugel
(ball top) is removable.
Note the M1871 pattern rounded Perling,
which was used by all cavalry regiments and
was a private-purchase option often seen of
artillery helmets. This gave rise to the
collector's "NCO Perlring" urban-myth,
although in fact, this helmet was worn by a
Senior-NCO as indicated by the Kokarden.
242
A side profile of this superb example which

shows the high domed-shape of the helmet
body.
243
Note that the rear spine does not incorporate

the M1895 rear sliding air vent, correct for a
private purchase pattern and correct for all
artillery helmets prior to the First War.
A view of the 53mm Unteroffizier mit

Portepee Kokarde with the additional silver
ring with a distinctive diagonal ribbing; this
pattern of Kokarde only worn by
Unteroffizier mit Portepee entitled to wear
the officer's sword knot.
Most Unteroffizier mit Portepee Kokarde
have the large centre hole to accommodate
the M1891 post and are the same size as the
issued Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
Kokarden, which are 48mm. This example,
however, has a small hole to accommodate
the threaded screw post, and is the same size
as a typical officer's Kokarde (53mm to
55mm).
244
With the Wappen carefully removed, the

'ghost' becomes visible where it has sat for
over 90 years
.
The liner of this example is of the highest

quality available with internal leather
sweatband and silk skull-cap. The underside
of the visors, however, are exposed leather,
245
which places this example in the mediumquality range.
This period photo shows a Preuen

Einjhrig-Freiwilliger (One-Year Volunteer)
wearing a similar Eigentumsstck
Kugelhelm, except his Kokarden would have
been the Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
pattern.
246

Stephen Case-Pall
Garde-Fuartillerie issued
Pickelhaube.
247
Model 1894 Garde-Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery) Mannschaften

issued
Pickelhaube.
This Pickelhaube was worn by the following Garde-Fuartillerie
units:
1. Garde-Fuartillerie-Regt. (Spandau) Garde-Korps
Fuartillerie Schieschule (Shooting School) (Jterbog)

Garde-Korps
Fuartillerie Prfungs-Kommission (Testing Commission)
2. Garde-Fuartillerie-Regt. Garde-Korps
248
In 1914 the 2. Garde-Fuartillerie-Regiment was formed from the

Fuartillerie Schieschule (Shooting School) Lehr-Regiment. The
new regiment wore the shoulder straps and unform of the
Fuartillerie Schieschule and the Fuartillerie PrfungsKommission.
Gunners from the Fuartillerie Schieschule manned all five
batteries of the large 30,5cm Mrser called the Beta 09 Gert and
gunners from the the Fuartillerie Prfungs-Kommission manned the
three batteries of the legendary 42cm M-Gert L/12 Dicke Bertha
(Big Bertha).
A view of the Preuen Garde Wappen (front plate) with the distinctive
spread-eagle wing with Garde star.
To accommodate a Haarbusch, the Kugel (ball top) is removable.
249
250
A side profile showing the high dome-shape of the helmet body, and
Fuartillerie characteristics, such as flat M91 chinscales.
Note that the rear spine does not incorporate the M1895 rear sliding
air vent, correct for all issued artillery helmets prior to the First War
251
252
The helmet liner is the standard Pickelhaube heavy leather pattern

and in good condition.
On the rear visor are issue stamps, in ink; "1902" for the initial issue
date, "BAG" for the clothing depot of the Garde and "2GA" when it
was finally issued to Garde-Fuartillerie Regt. Nr. 2, raised in 1914
and fought as part of the 2nd Garde Division.
253
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Dunkelblau shoulder straps from the three

units who wore this pattern of Pickelhaube. On the left, GardeFuartillerie-Regt. (Spandau) Garde-Korps. Centre, the Fuartillerie
Schieschule (Shooting School) (Jterbog) Garde-Korps. And on the
right, the Fuartillerie Prfungs-Kommission (Testing Commission)
254
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Model 1910 Vereinfachte (Simplified)

shoulder straps from the 2. Garde-Fuartillerie-Regt. On the left, the
Fuartillerie Schieschule (Shooting School) and on the right, the
Fuartillerie Prfungs-Kommission (Testing Commission).
Model 1891 Preuen Fu Artillerie.

Model 1891 Preuen Fu Artillerie Regt 8 Pickelhaube for an Unteroffizier mit
Portepee (Feldwebel or Vizefeldwebel) in Rheinisches Fuartill. - Regt. Nr. 8, Metz
XVII.Armee-Korps. This is a correct Model 1891 with no vent on the rear spine and
correct
pre
1895
screw
posts
on
the
helmet
plate.
It probably started life as an Model 1887 helmet, as the date on the inside of the skull
is "1888", typically marked in white paint. This helmet has the heavy solid skull
characteristic of early helmets.
255
Note that the rear spine does not incorporate the M1895 rear sliding air vent, correct
for an M1891 helmet.
256
The helmet is unit marked "8 AF" ( 8 Artillerie Fss) in white paint on the skull
interior. Re-issue markings including the date "1888" in white paint and "1906" in
black ink are also visible.
257
The liner of the issued M1891 helmet was heavy leather with rounded "tongues"
perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit.
258
A close-up of the Unteroffizier mit Portepee Kokarde worn only by Feldwebel and
Vizefeldwebel.
259
A Private in a Preuen Fu Artillerie Regt wears the M1891 Fu Artillerie

Pickelhaube with leather chinstrap.
260
Model
1867
Hessen
Mannschaften
(Other
Ranks)
Pickelhaube.
This helmet was issued to at least three, or possibly four, different Hessen units in its
lifetime; originally it was worn by Hessisches Garde Dragoner Regt in the FrancoPreuen war of 1870-71, then worn by the same regiment when they became Dragoner
Regt Nr. 23, then issued to Infanterie-Leib Regt. Groherzogin (3. Groherzoglich
Hessisches) Nr.117, and then possibly issued for a final time to a Hessen line Infantry
regiment.
261
The body on this helmet is exceptionally thick and heavy, with all brass fittings.
262
A view of the rear of the helmet, showing the two external brass studs that secure the
rear
spine
to
the
helmet
shell.
Unlike other Pickelhaubes with cruciform spike bases where the front arm on the
cruciform, is typically 1/2 the length of the other arms, on Hessen helmets the "arms"
on the cruciform spike base appear to be equal in length. However, the front arm is
actually a tiny bit shorter and always orientated to the front.
263
The liner is the standard Pickelhaube heavy leather pattern. Note the large blackened
circular reinforcement plate in the top of the skull to help maintain the helmet's shape.
264
The original leather draw-string remains intact, although this is possibly from the last
issue of the helmet, possibly as late as the early 1900s.
265
Here is where it gets interesting; this example was originally issued during the FrancoPreuen war of 1870-71 to Hessen Groherzoglich Hessisches Garde Dragoner Regt
who wore a Pickelhaube with gilt fittings. When this Regiment was incorporated in the
German Empire order of battle in 1871 as Dragoner Regt Nr. 23 (DR23) the helmet
fittings were to be changed to silver.
When DR23 finally received their helmets with silver fittings, this helmet was rolled
over into the inventory of Infanterie-Leib Regt. Groherzogin (3. Groherzoglich
Hessisches) Nr.117 (Mainz) XVIII Armee Korps as shown by the impressed "117 on
the right rear visor.
266
Finally, a canteen-purchased label glued inside the skull showing the wearer to be a
member of Infanterie-Leib Regt. Groherzogin (3. Groherzoglich Hessisches) Nr.117
The superb illustration to the left by

Darko Pavlovic shows a mounted Reiter
of the Hessisches Garde Dragoner Regt in
the Franco-Preuen war of 1870-71
wearing
this
Pickelhaube.
From: Solka, M. (2005) German Armies
1870-71 (2) Prussia's Allies (Men at Arms
422).Osprey Publishing, Midland House
Oxford.
Model 1894 Baden Dragoner Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube for 1.
267
Badisches Leib - Dragoner - Regt. Nr. 20, Karlsruhe XIV. Armee-Korps.

As is typical for a Dragoner Pickelhaube, the front visor is square, the spike base is
cruciform, the rear spine of the helmet is secured to the helmet shell by two external
silver studs, and there is a silver Perlring around the spike neck. These features are
found on all Dragoner Mannschaften and NCO Pickelhauben right up to and including
the Model 1915.
268
The liner of this M1894 example. Note the large support plate for the cruciform spike
base.
The helmet is unit marked "LDR20" ( Leib - Dragoner - Regt. Nr. 20) and dated "1895,
269
1896" on the rear visor.
All issued Dragoner helmets have the rear spine secured to the helmet shell by two
external brass or silver studs.
270
As all Dragoner Regiments were entitled to wear a helmet Trichter and Haarbusch
(parade plume) on parade, the spike top is removable to enable a Trichter to be
mounted. The ball-pattern Perlring was worn by all enlisted personnel and does not
indicate an NCO.
271
272
A photograph of a Badisches Dragoner

from 1. Badisches Leib - Dragoner - Regt.
Nr. 20, Karlsruhe XIV. Armee-Korps.
Preuen Model 1905 Jger zu Pferde Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Metalhelme for
Jger zu Pferde Regiments 1 to 4. Originally raised from Meldareiter (mounted
dispatch riders) in 1887, the Jger-zu-Pferde ceased to be used in that function after
becoming a regiment in 1901 and were employed as mounted light infantry, similar to
Dragoon
Regiments.
This example is an Eigentums-helm (privately purchased) Metalhelme. The body is
blackened steel with German silver fittings except for the curved M1894 pattern
chinscales which are Tombak. The Kokarden are the standard 63 mm Krassier pattern
for Mannschaften (Other Ranks). Externally, the Metalhelme is identical to an issued
example, except that it is extremely light.
273
The liner of issued M1905 Jger zu Pferde Metalhelme was of heavy leather with
rounded "tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit.
274
Eigentums-helm Metalhelme like this example, however, utilized the "squared finger"
liners or the officer pattern internal sweatband and skull-cap. This Jger zu Pferde
example also utilizes screw-posts for the back of the Eagle Wappen, compared to
loops on issued examples.
275
A rear view showing the point on the neck-guard and the unique spike base.
276
A period photograph showing a Jger wearing the

M1905 Jger zu Pferde Metalhelme.
Model 1862 Preuen Krassier Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Metalhelme. The

helmet is made from polished steel with brass fittings and carries the 1853 pattern
threaded screw posts, curved brass chinscales, and the distinctive raw metal edge
between the front and rear visors. This helmet was worn by the following Krassier
Regiments:
Leib-Krassier-Regt. Groer Kurfrst Nr.1 (until 1902)
Krassier-Regt. Graf Wrangel Nr.3
Krassier-Regt. von Driesen Nr.4
277
Krassier-Regt. Herzog Friedrich Eugen von Wrttemberg Nr.5
Krassier-Regt. von Seydlitz Nr.7
Krassier-Regt. Graf Geler Nr.8
Between 1853 and 1894 threaded screw-posts were utilized for the chinscales.
Krassier chinscales are also considerably wider than other units, measuring 36mm at
278
their widest point. Introduced in 1857, the Preuen (Prussian) stamped metal Kokarde
worn on the right side of the helmet measures an impressive 73 mm. Note the size
stamp of "55" partially visible on the shell.
This photo shows the raised ridge reinforcement carried on all issued Metalhelme until
1889 to strengthen the shell.
279
The spike top on Preuen Krassier Metalhelme matched the color of the helmet shell,
while the spike neck and base matched the fittings. This photo also shows the raised
280
ridge reinforcement carried on the back of the skull on all Metalhelme until 1889.
After this date, only officer Metalhelme retained the ridge to strengthen the shell.
Like the M1843 Metalhelme, the liner of the issued M1862 Metalhelme was of heavy
leather with rounded "tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the
fit. Contrary to some publications, this liner was in use for issue helmets for the entire
life of the Metalhelme from 1843 to 1915. The liner was secured at the sides with the
posts of the chinscales, and at the front and rear by spilt brads which passed through
281
the liner and the helmet shell.
282
The Krassier wore uniforms made from yellow-white (cream

color) boiled wool known as kirsey with Swedish cuffs. The collar
and cuffs were in Regimental facing colors and it was closed on the
front with sixteen alternating hook and eyes the entire length of the
front. The high collar with its distinctive curve, the cuffs, seams,
and piping on the front opening and rear skirt of the Koller were
piped in the regimental facing color. Shoulder straps were white and
also piped in the Regimental color, while the Koller border
(Kollerborte) was white fabric edged in regimental facing colors,
and ran the entire length of the front, collar, and cuffs.
Model 1894 Preuen Krassier Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Metalhelme to parade

for
Garde
Krassier
Regt.,
Berlin
Garde
Korps.
The helmet is manufactured from Tombak (an alloy made from a combination of
copper
and
zinc)
with
German
silver
fittings.
It is worth noting that the removable M91 chinscales are also manufactured from
Tombak not brass.
283
This photo shows the riveted rear plates of the so-called: 'lobster tail" neck guard and
284
the lack of a raised ridge reinforcement which was removed on the Model 1894
Metalhelme.
285
The helmet is dated 1915 and unit marked GKR on the left side under the chinscale
post.
The liner on the Model 1894 Preuen Krassier Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
Metalhelme remained unchanged from the M1842 Metalhelme.
286
287
The name of the manufacturer, "Damaschke" is stamped into the front visor trim.
The base for the removable parade eagle is also unit marked "GKR E3" for Garde
Krassier Regt 3 Eskadron. The parade eagle is mounted to the skull of the helmet
with a large bolt which is soldered to the eagle base
288
On the inside of the helmet a large wing-nut and washer secure the eagle to the
helmet. When not in use, the eagle was replaced by a spike and base. Two of the four
holes for mounting the spike are visible to the left of the brass nut. Note the size "57"
between the two holes. The washer under the brass nut is covering the two holes on
289
the right.
The Ulanen Tschapka liner was unique, in having squared fingers which met in the
center to form almost a closed circle. The liner of the issued Ulanen Tschapka
remained essentially the same the entire life of the helmet, from 1842 to 1915.
290
291
There is an owners paper label

inside the neck marked 2.16 (2
Esk UR16) for "2nd Squadron
Ulanen Regt. Nr. 16.
The top on a Model

1867 measured on
average an amazing
26 cm diagonally.
Preuen
Ulanen
Officer's
292
Tschapka.
Silver fittings were used by Ulanen Regiments 5, 6, 8, 15 and 16.
The helmet liner is the post-1880 officer pattern with a leather sweatband coupled by a
silk skull cap. The silk skull cap, unfortunately, have some seperations due to age.
293
A close-up of the threaded bolt and brass chinscales secured high on the side.
294
A view of the Unteroffizier Fangschnur (cords) which were worn by the rank of
Sergeant and up.
295
The Ulanen Tschapka liner was unique, in having squared fingers which met in the
center to form almost a closed circle. The liner of the issued Ulanen Tschapka
remained essentially the same the entire life of the helmet, from 1842 to 1915.
296
297
The inside on the skull is

impressed with "WUR1" for
"Westpreuisches
Ulanen
Regt. Nr. 1.
298
Hannover
Husaren Regt 15 Pelzmtze (Busby)
299
Hannover Husaren Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pelzmtze (Busby)

for Husaren-Regt. Knigin Wilhelmena der Niederlande
(Hannoversches) Nr.15 (Wandsbek) VIII Armee Korps. The
Pelzmtze is made from seal hair stretched over a bamboo frame.
According to period catalogues, Fhnriche and Fahnenjunker (two
forms of officers cadet) were allowed to purchase fur
Eigentumsstck (Private purchase) Pelzmtze. This seems to have
also been tolerated for privately-purchased Pelzmtze for lower
ranks as they range in color from black to a very dark brown (almost
black). Eigentumsstck (Private purchase) Pelzmtze do not exhibit
the smooth-tight hair of a seal-hair issued Pelzmtze as evidenced
by period photographs identical to this example. The Pelzmtze
shown here is made from seal hair, but it is the natural dark-brown
color and has not been dyed black.
300
A view of the silver Husaren Bandeau with the battle honours. This
Bandeau was only used by Husaren Regt. Nr. 15. In 1899, Kaiser
Wilhelm awarded commemorative Bandeau upon several
regiments of the provinces of Hannover and Hesse-Nassau. The
Bandeaus carry the names of battles fought by the Regiments of
Hannover and duchies of Nassau when they fought against France
as part of the British King's German Legion. The Bandeau were for
battles fought in Spain or Waterloo. The Husaren Regt 15 Bandeau
carried the battle honours of: "PENINSULA-WATERLOO-EL BODONBAROSSA". At one time, the letters for the battle honours would
have been painted black, but only a small amount of paint remains.
Like issued Pelzmtze, this example also has the distinctive
waffled canvas interior over a bamboo frame. Note the split
prongs and washers that hold the Bandeau onto the body.
301
The squared leather tongue liner commonly encountered on

Eigentums-helm is often referred to as the "Extra" pattern. The
302
leather is a higher quality and it was felt that this style of liner
afforded more comfort. This pattern of liner was also worn by
officers until 1880.
A side view of the Pelzmtze. Note that although the rosettes for
securing the gilt chinscales to the body are private purchase
pattern, the Kokarden are correct metal Mannschaften (Other
Ranks).
303
The matching Pelzmtze, Attila, and Schirmmtze for Husaren Regt

Nr. 15.To see the Attila click Here. To see the Schirmmtze click
Here.
Model 1867 Sachsen (Saxon) Reiter

Raupenhelm
304
Model 1867 Sachsen (Saxon) Reiter Raupenhelm from Kgl. Schs.Reiter

Regt Nr. 1, Dresden, XII Armee Korps.
Raupenhelm in German translates literally as a 'caterpillar helmet', as the
shape of the large wool 'Raupe' on the top resembled a caterpillar. The
M67 Reiter Raupenhelm was worn by four regiments: the Kgl.Schs.
Garde-Reiter-Regiment, and Sachsen Reiter regiments 1 to 3.
In 1876 the four Reiter regiments were reorganized and the M1867 Reiter
305
Raupenhelme was replaced. Two Regiments were equipped with Tombak

Metallhelme: Kgl.Schs. Garde-Reiter-Regiment (which retained its
name), and Sachsen Reiter Regt N. 3 which was named Kgl.Schs.
Karabiner-Regiment. Sachsen Reiter Regts 1 & 2 became Kgl. Schs.
Husaren-Regts Nr.18 & 19 and were equipped with Pelzmtzen
(Busbies).
The superb illustration to the left by Darko Pavlovic shows a
mounted Reiter of the Sachsen Reiter Regt Nr. 1.
From: Solka, M. (2005) German Armies 1870-71 (2) Prussia's
Allies (Men at Arms 422).Osprey Publishing, Midland House
Oxford.
The collar and cuffs on the pale-blue Koller were in regimental
colors:
Garde Reiter Regt - white

Reiter Regt Nr. 1 - red
Reiter Regt Nr. 2 - burgundy
Reiter Regt Nr. 3 black
306
307
A view of the Sachsen (Saxon) Wappen (front plate). This Wappen is

essentially identical to the Wappen used by Sachsen foot troops.
A view of the Sachsen (Saxon) Model 1867 Reiter Raupenhelm
profile.
The height of the helmet is nicely shown in this photograph. Sitting on

a flat surface, the helmet is 28.5 cm (over 11 inches) tall. The brass
chinscales with their unique triple-leaf pattern measure 35mm at their
widest point and are secured by threaded screw-posts. Note that both
the front and rear visors carry brass trim.
A close-up of the unique brass framework on the side of the helmet
body and the leather support for the wool Raupe. The brass
framework is secured to the leather body with split brads, while the
Raupe is secured with domed screw posts.
308
A view of the rear of the Raupenhelm
309
Unlike Preuen chinscales, the brass chinscales on Sachsen (Saxon)

Raupenhelme are sewn to thick leather with the stitching exposed at
the rear.
This pattern of backing can also be found on the M1845/48 Bayern
(Bavaria) Raupenhelme chinscales.
310
The Sachsen stamped metal Kokarde was worn on the right side of
the helmet and measures an impressive 67mm. Unlike foot troops
who used a smooth round Kokarde, the Sachsen cavalry wore a
Kokarde with serrated edges.
311
The liner of the issued M1867 Raupenhelm was of heavy leather

with rounded "tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to
adjust the fit. Typically, this helmet has 'twisted' somewhat from
age.
However, I would be twisted too if I was 139 years old!
312
A soldered loop on the back of the Wappen passes through

corresponding slits on the front of the helmet and is held in place
with leather wedges. This system was also used by Bayern (Bavaria)
as far back as 1845, and eventually adopted for all issued
Pickelhauben in 1895.
313
The loop system was also used to retain other parts of the helmet
together, such as the wool Raupe as shown here on the bottom of the
rear visor.
The name of the manufacturer "G.H. Osang" (Dresden) is stamped
into both front and rear visor trim.
314
Model 1915 Wrttemberg

Friedens-Uniform Tschapka
Model 1915 Wrttemberg Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Tschapka for the FriedensUniform (Future Peacetime Uniform).
The Tschapka has German silver fittings and the 1915 removable top which retains
the original black paint in near perfect condition.
The leather M-91 pattern leather chinstrap and 1916 date identifies this Tschapka as
being made for the Friedens-Uniform.
315
316
A view of the Wrttemberg Ulanen issued Wappen (front plate). Like its Preuen
counterpart, the small Wrttemberg Ulanen Wappen measures only 95mm from the
top of the crown to the bottom of the center, compared to the larger Infantry Line
Wappen at 125mm
Issued Tschapka carried the same unique liner for the entire life of the Tschapka,
from 1843 to 1915. The helmet is dated inside top skull 1916.
317
318
A side view of the Model 1915 Friedens-Helme Tschapka. Note how the back of the
helmet is designed so that it curves down around the wearer's skull.
A view of the removable tin top. Note how the bayonet-style lug for the top is
identical to the grey chemically oxidized steel top utilized to secure the M1915
Tschapka.
However, as this Tschapka is for the Friedens-Uniform, the top is painted black, not
grey.
319
Model 1867/1873 Sachsen (Saxon)

Train Tschako
A rare Model 1867/1873 Sachsen (Saxon) Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Train Tschako. Train in the German Army were horse-drawn
supply troops.
This example is marked to both Kgl. Schs. 1. Train-Bataillon Nr.12
(Dresden/Bischofswerda) XII Armee Korps and Kgl. Schs. 2. TrainBataillon Nr.19 (Leipzig) XIX Armee Korps.
320
The Sachsen (Saxony) pattern Tschako for Train

was more cap than helmet. It was made of pressed
felt covered in black cloth with a flat visor which
closely resembled the French or American CivilWar Kepi worn in the 1800s. The 1867 Sachsen
Train Tschako Wappen was similar to infantry with
a gilt star w/ silver Sachsen Wappen overlay but
was only 2/3 the size. A rather volumous dark blue
wool Pompon with a black center with a
superimposed gilt Sachsen crown, was worn until
1873 when it was replaced with a Feldzeichen in the
same colors.
Unlike the other Train Battalions of the German
empire who wore a Dunkelblau (dark blue)
Waffenrock with light blue collar and Swedish
cuffs, the Sachsen Train Battalions wore a light blue
Waffenrock with black collar and cuffs piped in red.
Illustration: Das kleine Buch vom Deutschen Heere.
(1900) Lipius & Tischer
Along with Baden, Preuen, and, Wrttemberg, Sachsen Train troops
321
retired the Tschako in 1903 and adopted a Pickelhaube with curved

mounted pattern chinscales.
A view of the Sachsen (Saxon) Train Tschako Wappen (front plate)

and the very rare 1873 Feldzeichen.
Like the wool Pompon worn from 1867 to 1973, the 1873 Feldzeichen
was blue with a black center onto which a gilt Sachsen crown was
sewn.
322
Some references claim that when Kgl. Schs. 2. Train-Bataillon Nr.19

was raised in 1899, they adopted the Sachsen green/white Feldzeichen as
worn by the Sachsen Ulanen and Husaren. Unfortunately, there is little
evidence to support this hypothesis and surviving examples with
323
green/white Feldzeichen could be replacements for the missing correct

blue Feldzeichen. Or conversely, at some point, the blue Feldzeichen
could have been replaced by the green/white Feldzeichen for one, or both
Train Battalions. Unfortunately, neither will never be proven due to the
Allied bombing of Dresden in W.W.II when all Saxon military records,
(along with 100,000 civilians) were destroyed in the fire storms.
A comparison of the M1867 Sachsen Train Tschako Wappen at 82 mm

with the standard Sachsen Infantry Pickelhaube Wappen at 104 mm.
These measurements are average, as the Wappen are curved and the size
depends on the shape of the helmet.
The shell of the Tschako is not made from leather, but pressed
wool/felt. The top of the Tschako is leather, as are the bottom edges
and front visor. The liner on issued Sachsen (Saxon) Tschako are
unique, having scalloped edges tied with thick colored cord. This is
common for all issued Sachsen Tschako of this pattern.
324
325
A view of the Sachsen (Saxon) Train Tschako profile. Train Tschako tend
to be higher than the Jger and Schtzen Tschako. Note that unlike
Infantry Tschako which carried holes on the right side for the permanently
mounted black horse-hair plume, Train Tschako normally do not have
these holes as the plume was worn only for parades. Like all issued
Sachsen Tschako, it carries a single black-painted brass vent on the sides.
326
The top is clearly

stamped 12.TB and
dated 1874. The
Tschako was then
issued to TB19 and the
earlier stamps were
crossed out.
When Kgl. Schs. 2.
Train-Bataillon Nr.19
was raised in 1899, the
bulk of the new unit
came from TrainBataillon Nr.12. For
this reason, most
surviving TB19
Tschako are marked
both TB12 and TB19.
Model 1871 Wrttemberg Train Bataillon

Nr. 13 Tschako
A rare Model 1871 Wrttemberg Train Bataillon Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
issued Tschako. Train in the German Army were horse-drawn supply troops.
This example is marked to Knigs Train-Bataillon Nr.13 (Ludwigsburg) XIII
Armee Korps. The Wrttembergisches Train-Bataillon was established in 1871
and wore the Preuen M1860 pattern Tschako until the Bataillon adopted the
Pickelhaube in 1903. Only Mannschaften (Other Ranks) wore the Tschako;
officers wore a Pickelhaube from 1871 to 1918.
327
328
A view of the Model 1871 Wrttemberg Wappen. Like its Preuen counterpart, it
measures only 95mm from the top of the crown to the bottom of the center,
compared to the larger Infantry Line Wappen at 125mm. This little Wappen in
brass was worn only by Wrttembergisches Train-Bataillon Nr.13 between 1871
and 1903. This is a particularly beautiful and highly detailed little Wappen.
A view of the rear profile of this example.
329
The liner of issued M1871 Wrttemberg Tschako were of heavy leather with
rounded "tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit.
330
The Tschako is clearly marked "KTB.N-13" for Knigs Train-Bataillon Nr.13

and dated 1873.
331
Note the internal vent behind the Feldzeichen which could be opened or closed
to ventilate the helmet.
A view of the M1871 Wrttemberg Mannschaften Tschako side profile. Note that
there are no side air vents on M1860 Tschakos.
Die Dunkelblaue Zeit (The dark blue time)

332
1808
In 1808 Preuen (Prussia) introduced a round field cap without a visor to be
worn by Mannschaften (Other Ranks) when the tall Tschako was not required.
The new cap was called the Feldmtze (field cap) and had a fold down flap to
protect the neck and face in inclement weather (of interest, this fold-down flap
was eventually brought back on the German Model 1942 Overseas cap). The
Feldmtze was very tall, dark grey in color for line troops, blue for the Garde,
and carried no insignia.
1814 Feldmtze
The 1808 was quickly replaced by AKO 21 April 1814 which introduced a
new model Feldmtze which no longer had the fold-down flap and the
overall height of the Mtze was lowered. An AKO = AllerhchsteKabinetts-Ordre (All Highest Cabinet Order) was a directive issued by the
King of Preuen (Prussia) to proclaim an approved article of clothing or
equipment for general issue.
Prototype Model 1814 Feldmtze
The lower band remained the same width, but now matched the color of the
uniform collar (generally red). The top color remained the same as in the
Model 1808: dark grey wool for line troops and blue for the Garde. On 31
May 1814 a line of colored piping was introduced along the top edge of the
Mtze to match the band , and AKO 21 Jan. 1822 introduced a Dunkelblau
(dark blue) color for the top of the Feldmtze for all line troops.
Officers
Prior to May 1848, officer's in dress and walking-out uniform were
required to wear the felt fore-and aft hat typically associated now with the
navy. For other duties, a Feldmtze was made available for officers. The
Officers Feldmtze was similar to the Mannschaften version, except that it
carried a small black fiber or leather visor on the front and was privately
333
purchased, which resulted in a higher quality and materials such as doeskin

wool exteriors with silk lining.
Model 1814 officer's Feldmtze
1842
AKO 4 November 1842 introduced a Preuen Kokarde in the national
colors of black/white/black which was worn on the center of the Feldmtze
band.
The Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Kokarde was stamped one-piece metal

painted in the national colors with two holes on the front to allow it to be sewn
to the Feldmtze. Officers and Portepee-Unteroffiiziere (NCOs entitled to
wear the Officer's sword knot) were entitled to wear the so-called "officer"
pattern Kokarde with separate silver metal ring attached to a flat fiber backing
that was secured to the Feldmtze with split prongs. The Kokarde only worn
by Officers and Portepee-Unteroffiiziere had a single distinctive diagonal
ribbing ring prior to 1867. The post-1867 officer Kokarde has a "double ring".
334
Model 1867
AKO 16 March 1867 introduced the Krtzchen (field cap) and
Schirmmtze (visor cap) which was considerably lower than the Model
1814 Feldmtze. For the Krtzchen, the band was 1/3 the overall height
with barely enough room for the Kokarde. The top was now less-rounded
with relatively wide piping. The example to the right is a typical example
of an issued Preuen M1867 Krtzchen.
Click to Enlarge
Except for changes in colors and the addition of the Reich's Kokarde in 1897,
the shape of the issued Krtzchen would remain the same until the end of the
Kaiser-era in 1918.
On the Model1867 Schirmmtze, the band was half the overall height. This
photograph of an Ulan (Lancer) Sergeant wearing the Model 1867
Schirmmtze. AKO 28 June 1873 stated that the issued Krtzchen was
unsuitable for NCOs, and that unit funds were to be used to purchase a
Schirmmtze for the NCOs. Please see the page on E or Eigentum
(property) Stamps from the Kaiser's Bunker Guide to Imperial German
Cloth Headgear main index page for more details.
335
An example of a Model 1867 Schirmmtze for a Reserve officer with the

typical tiny fiber brim. Unlike the issued Krtzchen, Schirmmtze were
Eigetumsstck (privately purchased) and have much wider bands, wire
stiffeners in the top, with silk linings with a leather sweatband.
Schirmmtzen are occasionally encountered with a soft leather visor; this is
believed to have been in fashion with officers for some time before the
Bekleidungs-Vorschriften (clothing directions) of the 1890s which allowed
this on Schirmmtze for field use only.
Click to Enlarge
Over the years, the Model 67 Schirmmtzen began to take on a more

vertical "tube" shape as show in this photograph of a Preuen officer. This
336
eventually resulted in Bekleidungs-Vorschriften (clothing directions) of 28

May 1896 which directed that the top had to project over the lower band,
by a minimum of 5 cm.
Eigetumsstck Headgear
Eigetumsstck headgear were privately purchased by an individual;
"Eigentum" translates as "Property", indicating that the item was private
property. Eigetumsstck headgear could be purchased by any soldier
dependant upon the wealth of the individual, but they were always purchased
for wear by officers, and "normally" by Einjhrig-Freiwilliger (One Year
Volunteer) and Fhnrich. As a result, Eigetumsstck are of a much higher
quality than issued headgear and in the case of Schirmmtzen, they are often
misidentified as officer, NCO, or One Year Volunteer Schirmmtze when in
fact, the original owner could have been a Private.
Although the soldiers could purchase soft issue quality Krtzchen, many
opted to purchase Tellermtzen (plate hats) which have stiff sides and top
with a classic flat Teller (plate) shape. The Krassier in this photograph
wears an Eigetumsstck Tellermtze which unlike an issued Krtzchen,
has a considerably wider band and top overhang with a wire stiffener in the
top.
337
This Bayern (Bavarian) Chevaulager Regiment 1 private purchase

Tellermtze is of exceptionally high quality.
Click to Enlarge
Evolution of the Schirmmtze

Few references will agree when or if there was an official clothing order
that changed the shape of the Schirmmtze prior to the Feldgrau Model
1907/10 clothing, but it appears that fashion resulted in the top getting
taller and wider, the band getting higher, and the visor getting considerably
larger. This photograph of a Sergeant in the 2. Garde-Dragoner-Regt.
Kaiserin Alexandra von Ruland (Berlin) Garde-Korps shows the flat
Teller shape and the large front visor.
338
This Preuen Jger Eigetumsstck (privately purchased) Schirmmtze is

typical for the period leading up to 1911. The top retains the classic
"Teller" (plate) form on the top, and the visor has grown in size from the
tiny 1867 pattern to a large modern appearance.
Click to Enlarge
1911
AKO 12 December 1911 officially sanctioned the "saddle" for the
Schirmmtze, which had been appearing for some years previously. The
339
visor was considerably larger than previous models, and the front of the top
was higher in profile than the back.
This order was meant for Schirmmtze only, however, as this photograph
shows, some soldiers could not resist applying the saddle shape to their
privately purchased Tellermtzen.
This example of a Baden Reserve Officer's Model 1911 Schirmmtze for

1. Badisches Leib- Dragoner - Regt. Nr. 20 Karlsruhe XIV. Armee Korps
demonstrates superb craftsmanship, and is manufactured from the highest
quality doeskin wool.
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Click to Enlarge
Die Feldgraue Zeit (The field grey time)

1907/1910
AKO 28 February 1910 announced the release of the new German Feldgrau
(field gray) uniform, known as the Model 1907/10 Feldrock. The Feldrock
and matching Schirmmtze and Krtzchen were made of a heavy wool
Feldgrau (green grey) material and were intended for field use only, while the
old Dunkelblau uniforms were maintained for all other occasions such as
walking out and parades. The tops on all Jger and Schtzen (Light Infantry)
Battalions, MG-Abt. (Machine Gun Detachments) and the Jger zu Pferde
Regiments were Graugrn (grey green) not Feldgrau.
The new Model 1907/10 headgear continued to be piped in regiment or
branch of service colors, however, often some changes occurred in both
branch colors, or the band/piping color itself.
In this studio portrait a young soldier wears an issue Model 1910 Feldgrau
Krtzchen with a sewn camouflage band.
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Model 1910 Bayern (Bavaria) Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks)

Krtzchen. The cap is made from a thick early war Feldgrau wool, with
standard issued Kokarden.
Click to Enlarge
Officers
The Officers Schirmmtze continued to be privately purchased and of a
higher quality in construction and materials, and are typically made from a
good quality Feldgrau wool, twill, or doeskin. In this period photograph an
officer is wearing a high-quality Model 1910 Schirmmtze with his
Feldgrau Litewka.
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The Model 1907/10 regulations for Schirmmtzen called for a black leather
(or imitation leather) chinstrap with a single buckle to be fixed to the
Schirmmtze above the visor by two black buttons. By 1915, the chinstrap
began to be fazed out, and surviving examples of Schirmmtzen rarely
have the chinstraps in place.
Model 1910 Sachsen (Saxon) Officer's Schirmmtze for Artillerie, Pioniere

and Verkehrstruppen (Transportation Troops). These included all
Eisenbahn (Railway), Telegraphen (Telegraph), Flieger (Flying),
Luftschiffer (Balloon and Zeppelin).
This superb Schirmmtze is made from a high quality Feldgrau wool with
a black velvet band and officer's Kokarden.
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Click to Enlarge
Eigetumsstck
As with Dunkelblau, Mannschaften (Other Ranks) continued to purchase
Eigetumsstck Schirmmtzen in Feldgrau. This private from Knigin
Elisabeth Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.3 (Charlottenburg) Garde-Korps
wears a Feldgrau Eigetumsstck Schirmmtze.
A rare example of a Model 1910 Preuen Dragoner Regiment 2

Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Schirmmtze. Although this example is
privately purchased, the quality reflects the wartime conditions, with a
rough quality wool and an Ersatz paper sweatband.
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Click to Enlarge
NCO
Since 1873 Schirmmtze had been purchased by the unit to be issued to the
NCOs. With the model Model 1907/1910 headgear, for the first time NCO
Schirmmtze were manufactured and issued. They are of issue quality in
rough wool, and carry issue stamping on the cloth lining.
In this photograph a Sergeant in in Braunschweigisches Husaren-Regt.
Nr.17 (Braunschweig) X Armee Korps wears what appears to be the NCO
issued Schirmmtze with Totenkopf. His Schirmmtze would have had a
black band with yellow piping.
345
It is not clear if the NCO Schirmmtze was issued only to cavalry units, or
was only issued for a short period, as surviving examples are rare. What
differentiates them from private purchase examples, is that they are made
from rough issued quality wool, with issue quality liners, and carry
standard unit issue stamps.
This rare example of a Model 1910 Preuen Dragoner Regiment 8 NCO
Schirmmtze has the standard issue stam
ps.
Click to Enlarge
346
Model 1908 Dienstmtze mit Schirm

In 1908 a Dienstmtze mit Schirm (service cap with visor) was introduced
for issue to the Mannschaften of the Train (supply), Sanitts-Unteroffiziere
(Medical NCOs), Krankentrger (stretcher bearers) and Krankenwrter
(Medical Attendants).
As this photos shows, it was essentially a soft Krtzchen with an attached

wide leather chinstrap and visor.
Husaren Extra Piping
The Model 1907/1910 Mtzen posed a challenge for the German clothing
authority, as many Husaren Mtzen had three Regimental facing colors. To
represent all three, the color of the piping on the Feldgrau Mtzen was the
same as the Dunkelblau version. The band on the Feldgrau Mtze was the
same as the color of the top of the Dunkelblau Mtze, and the color of the
Pelzmtze (Busby ) Kolpak (the cloth bag which hangs on the left side of
the Pelzmtze) was represented by an additional single row of extra piping
above the band piping. 13 out of 20 Husaren Regiments carried this extra
row of piping.
347
The example here is from Husaren-Regt. Kaiser Nikolaus II von Ruland

(1.Westflisches ) Nr.8 (Neuhaus; II & V Paderborn) VII Armee Korps.
Model
1915
AKO 21 September 1915 announced the release of a completely new pattern

of uniforms called the Model 1915 for field use. Bayern (Bavaria) did not
adopt until 31 March 1916, so for Bayern, they are known as Model 1916.
Also in 1915 (1916 for Bayern) the Kriegs und Friedens-Uniformen (War and
Peacetime uniforms) were introduced for parades and walking out. In the
field, however, the M1907/10 headgear remained unchanged. With the
introduction of this new Feldgrau formal uniform, the old Dunkelblau
uniforms were finally retired. The Model 1915 Friedens-Uniformen
Schirmmtzen had two significant differences from the earlier models: the
Model 1915 Friedens-Uniformen Schirmmtzen had an olive green visor, and
it did not come with the leather chinstrap.
For primary arms (infantry, artillery etc) the Model 1915 Schirmmtze to
be worn with the Friedens-Uniformen (Peacetime uniforms) was to be
Feldgrau; for the primary arms, the old Dunkelblau colors for headgear
were gone forever. This was not the case with the cavalry, however, as the
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Krassier, Ulanen, Dragoner, and Husaren regiments were entitled to wear

a Model 1915 Schirmmtze with the grey visor in the Dunkelblau colors.
This does not seem to have been popular, as most opted for a Feldgrau top.
This scarce photo shows a young Dragon from 1. Brandenburgisches
Dragoner-Regt. Nr.2 wearing a Model 1915 Schirmmtze and FriedensUniform with light blue top and grey visor, carrying the Dragoner Regt.
Nr. 2 tradition badge.
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Click to Enlarge
This Model 1915 Wrttemberg Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks)

Schirmmtze is made from a light grey wool, with standard issue
Mannschaften Schirmmtze Kokarden. To reflect the wartime conditions
the lining is Ersatz paper-cloth with an Ersatz imitation leather (paper)
sweat band.
Regulations of AKO 21 September 1915 (AKO 31 March 1916 for Bayern)
called for some significant changes to branch colors, or the colors of the band
and piping on headgear for the following units/arms:
All cavalry Zitrongelb (lemon yellow) and Hellgelb (light yellow) were
changed to Dunkelgelb (dark yellow) for all units.
Train (Supply) Battalions changed from Hellblau (light blue) to
Kaliblau (potash-blue)
Kgl. Bayer. 1. Chevaulegers-Regt. Kaiser Nikolaus von Ruland
(Nrnberg) and Kgl. Bayer. 2. Chevaulegers-Regt. Taxis (Regensburg)
changed from Weinrotes (wine red) to Orangerot (orange-red)
Kgl. Schs.2. Ulanen-Regt. Nr.18 changed from Ponceaurot (poppy
red) to Dunkelpurpur (dark purple)
Krankentrger (Medical Carriers) changed from Ponceaurot (poppy
red) to Karmesinrot (crimson red)
Wartime Oddities
As with any nation at war, some forms of headdress will appear that seem
to be on the fringe of regulations. Some officer's chose to wear
Schirmmtzen with silk tops; these are often wrongly described as "special
pilots caps" when in fact, they are riding silks, with the cap being called a
Reitmtze. Officers who competed in equestrian events had the option of
wearing ultra light-weight uniforms and Reitmtze made from silk.
This period Sanke postcard shows a painting of German fighter pilot
Leutnant Kurt Wsthoff wearing a riding silk Reitmtze. Leutnant
Wsthoff was credited with twenty seven aerial victories and was awarded
the Pour le Merite.
Crushers
Schirmmtzen with soft leather visors for field use were officially recognized
in the Bekleidungs-Vorschriften (clothing directions) of the 1890s, however,
these Schirmmtzen retained the coated cardboard backing under the band to
give them a stiff shape.
350
Click to Enlarge
During the Great War the first true "Crusher" Schirmmtzen appeared with
soft leather visors and no cardboard backing of wire stiffeners in the tops.
These field duty Schirmmtzen can literally be rolled into a ball without
damage. The example shown here is for a Wrttemberg Reserve medical
officer. This cap was worn by a doctor that would have acted as an army
physician or surgeon and was manufactured with a leather visor and
without the band cardboard stiffener or cap wire in the top, giving it a
distinctive "floppy" look.
Model
1917
Einheits
351
Mtze
on 20 July 1917 an Einheits (universal) Schirmmtze and Krtzchen was

introduced to replace all the various colored caps in use prior to that time. The
colored Model 07/10 Mtzen were now only to be worn in garrison and no
longer would the bright colors of the Imperial Army be seen on the battlefield.
The Einheits-Mtze were made with dark green bands and piping that
matched the collars on the Model 1915 Bluse and intended to be worn by all
arms. The official name of the material used on the 1917 Einheitsmtze is
"Abzeichentuch" also called "Resedagrn". It was a grayed down version of
pea green. Bayern (Bavaria) did not wear green collars on their Bluse, so
Bayern Einheits Schirmmtze and Krtzchen are made completely out of
Feldgrau material, without a different color cloth for the band and top piping.
Model 1917 Bayern (Bavarian) Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Einheits
(universal) Schirmmtze. The Einheits - Mtze was introduced in 1917 to
replace all the various colored caps in use prior to that time. The cap is
made from a rough Feldgrau wool, with a dark green band and piping. By
regulation the Bayern (Bavarian) 1917 an Einheits Schirmmtze should be
made completely out of Feldgrau material, without a dark green band and
piping like the other contingents, but it was ugly, so officers and NCOs
tended to purchase caps with their contrasting colours. As a result, this
Bayern 1917 Einheits Schirmmtze is made like the Preuen model.
Click to Enlarge
Kaiser's Bunker Imperial German

Cloth Headgear Charts
How to use the color charts
Welcome to Kaiser's Bunker Imperial German Cloth Headgear
Charts. In these reference pages, I have made full colored large
scale drawings of Imperial German cloth headgear for all arms.
352
Collectively, all cloth headgear are referred to as a Mtze

(singular) or Mtzen (plural).
In German, "Dunkelblau" not only refers to the color "dark blue"
but also to all uniforms of any color worn prior to the introduction
of the Feldgrau (Field grey) uniforms. This tradition stemmed from
the necessity of dressing particular regiments and troops in colors,
which would allow commanders to recognize their troops on the
battlefield from a distance. So even a Mtze with a green or red
top, is still considered "Dunkelblau" as in this context, it refers to
the era, not the color.
To make this reference easy to use, you can view the cap colors in
seven different layouts. Click the links below to view in the
following layouts:
How to use the color charts

Primary Arms
Krassier, Heavy Cavalry, and Jger zu Pferde
Ulanen (Lancers)
Dragoner and Chevaulegers (Mounted Rifles)
Husaren
Support Elements
View all
Acknowledgements
I would like to publicly acknowledge two good friends of mine, Roger
Roy and Sonia Boulet, who patiently talked me through Corel Draw
as I struggled to learn the program. I also want to thank Dave Mosher
for reviewing the charts for accuracy. While drawing and photoediting 360+ drawings, mistakes were bound to slip past me; Dave's
sharp eye combined with his exceptional knowledge on Imperial
German headgear, spotted my errors so I could make the correction.
The Drawings
When clicked, the photo of each Mtze in the links above, will open
in a new window to show a large size Krtzchen (round visorless field
cap) worn by Mannschaften (Other Ranks) and Schirmmtze (visor
caps) which were worn by officers and Senior NCOs, but were also
privately purchased by the Mannschaften (Other Ranks).
353
Each window will show:
a pre-1910 Dunkelblau Krtzchen;

a pre-1910 Dunkelblau Schirmmtze;
a 1907/1910 Feldgrau (field grey) Krtzchen; and
a 1907/1910 Feldgrau (field grey) Schirmmtze.
In some cases there was no Krtzchen (i.e.: medical officers) so

only the Schirmmtze is illustrated.
Click Once To Enlarge
Unless a Mtze was specific to a contingent (such as Bavarian Jger

etc) I have placed a Preuen Kokarde on the drawings, however, the
lower Kokarde is dependant upon the contingent and the unit. For all
drawings I have taken the liberty of placing the Reich's Kokarde on
the top of each Mtze as this was worn after 1897. All Mtzen carried
only the lower contingent Kokarde centered on the lower band up to
1897.
A word on colors
Cloth color will vary greatly based up the dye, the time it was
made, and whether or not it was issued or privately purchased.
Issued Mtzen are almost always considerably darker than private
purchased Mtzen which usually will be much lighter in color. On
the left are three different samples of Dunkelblau (dark blue). They
range from very dark, to very light, but in the regulations, all three
units wore Dunkelblau (dark blue).
Some Mtzen colors do not seem to match the regulations, even for
354
issued examples. For example, Dragoner (Mounted Rifles) Mtzen

that according to regulation should be Kornblumenblau (cornflower
blue) on top, are almost always Hellblau (light blue) on surviving
examples. To address these variations, I attempted to ensure that the
colors reflect these realities, while attempting to keep the colors as
accurate as possible.
In the end, however, how the drawings appear is dependant upon your
monitor settings, primarily the brightness and the contrast.
Tradition Badges
1842 - 1918
Selected units within the Imperial German Army were
authorized to wear tradition badges on the Krtzchen
(round visorless field cap) worn by Mannschaften
(Other Ranks) or on the Schirmmtze (visor caps)
worn by all ranks.
The Leib Husaren Totenkopf
The famous Totenkopf "death head" insignia first
appeared in the Preuen (Prussian) army with
Husaren-Regiment Nr.5 (von Ruesch) during the reign
of Frederick the Great. Husaren-Regiment Nr.5 were
fitted with black Kollet (a waist length jacket with
tails) with rows of ornamental braiding on the chest
and a tall, cylindrical "Tschako" which carried a large
Totenkopf. In 1808, when the regiment was reformed
into Leib-Husaren Regiments Nr.1 and Nr.2, the
355
Totenkopf remained a part of the uniform.

The first documented wearing of a Totenkopf on a
cap was with the Ltzowsches Freikorps who wore
a silver Totenkopf on a black beret. It is not clear
when Leib-Husaren Regiments Nr.1 and Nr.2 were
granted permission to wear the Leib Husaren
pattern Totenkopf on the cloth headgear, but
photographs from the 1860s show it being worn. It
may have been authorized as early as 1815. For all
ranks, it was worn centered between the upper band
piping and the piping along the crown of the black
cap.
The silver Leib Husaren pattern Totenkopf was
identical for all ranks, from Husar (Private) to
Field-Marshall and royalty.
After 1897 when the

Reich's Kokarde was
introduced, it was worn
centered between the
356
upper and lower

Kokarden, directly over
the band piping as show
here being worn by a
Husar from one of the
two Leib Husaren
Regiments.
The identical silver Totenkopf is worn here by
357
Friedrich Wilhelm Victor August Ernst (6 May

1882 20 July 1951) of the House of Hohenzollern.
Wilhelm was the last Crown Prince of the Kingdom
of Prussia and the German Empire.
The
Braunschweig
Totenkopf
On 17 September 1883, the Braunschweig pattern

Totenkopf was authorized to be worn by
Braunschweigisches Husaren-Regt. Nr.17. In 1912,
this honor was also authorized for Braunschweigisches
Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92. Unlike the Preuen LeibHusaren pattern Totenkopf which was identical for all
ranks, the Braunschweig pattern Totenkopf came in
two distinct patterns: a flat issued pattern and a three
dimensional private purchase pattern.
The
Braunschweig
Issued
Totenkopf
The Braunschweig pattern issued Totenkopf was

flat with very little profile. It was worn on all issued
Krtzchen (round visorless field cap) or on the
Schirmmtze (visor caps) worn by Mannschaften
358
(Other
Ranks).
The Braunschweig Private Purchase Totenkopf
359
The Braunschweig pattern private purchase

Totenkopf was three dimensional and considerably
different in appearance from the issued pattern
above. It was worn by officers and Mannschaften
(Other Ranks) on private-purchase Schirmmtze
(visor caps). In this photo it is being worn by a
Unteroffizier (junior NCO) in Braunschweigisches
Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92 (Braunschweig) X Armee
Korps.
A Braunschweig pattern private purchase
360
Totenkopf is worn in this photo by a Husar

(Private) in Braunschweigisches Husaren-Regt.
Nr.17 (Braunschweig) X Armee Korps. His
Schirmmtze would have been black with red band
and yellow piping.
The photos below are particularly interesting, as the

only infantry Regiment authorized to wear the
Totenkopf was Braunschweigisches Infantry-Regt.
Nr.92, however, the two men below are not from
Infantry-Regt. Nr.92. The Unteroffizier (Corporal) on
the left with Infanterie-Regt. Hessen-Homburg Nr.166
(Bitsch) XXI Armee Korps is wearing an issued
pattern Totenkopf, and the Gefreiter (Senior Private)
on
the
right
with
1.
Groherzoglich
Mecklenburgisches Fsilier-Regt. Kaiser Wilhelm
Nr.90 (Rostock; II Bn Wismar) VIII Armee Korps is
wearing a private purchase Totenkopf. Neither of these
two regiments were authorized to wear the Totenkopf,
so it can only be assumed that both of these soldiers
were transferred in from Infantry-Regt. Nr.92 and
retained their Totenkopfs.
361
Garde-Reserve Pionier-Bataillon (Flammenwerfer) or

Minenwerfer
(Trench
Mortar)
Forgeries
362
The only units ever entitled to wear a Totenkopf on

their headgear, were the two Preuen Leib Husaren
Regiments, and Braunschweigisches Husaren-Regt.
Nr.17 and Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92 as discussed above.
However, occasionally a Pickelhaube or Schirmmtze
will appear on the market that is being sold as an "ultra
rare
Garde-Reserve
Pionier-Bataillon
(Flammenwerfer)" or Minenwerfer (Trench Mortar)
and naturally, it will carry a Totenkopf, often with a
convenient paper or cloth label "proving" it to be
Garde-Reserve Pionier-Bataillon or Minenwerfer .
Historically, only one new unit in the Great War was
awarded the honor of wearing a Totenkopf, and that
was in fact the flame thrower unit of the GardeReserve Pionier-Bataillon (Flammenwerfer). It was
awarded the honor of wearing the Death's Head
(Totenkopf) on their lower left jacket sleeve by decree
of the Kaiser in 1916, however, permission was not
granted to wear the Totenkopf on headgear of any sort.
The
Garde-Reserve
Pionier-Bataillon
(Flammenwerfer) wore the standard Pionier Mtzen
with Kokadren only. No Minenwerfer (Trench Mortar)
unit was ever authorized to wear a Totenkopf.
Typically the Schirmmtze that appear on the market
being sold as one of these units are original Pionier (or
Artillery etc) Schirmmtzen with some sort of
Totenkopf stuck on the front. Usually the Totenkopfs
are Third Reich 17 Inf regt or 41st Cavalry regt
pattern, or outright fakes.
The
Dragoner
Adler
A unique Dragoner pattern eagle tradition badge was

worn only by 1. Brandenburgisches Dragoner-Regt.
Nr.2 (Schwedt a.O.) III Armee Korps. According to
Ulrich, Herr, U. & Nguyen, J (2006) The German
Cavalry from 1871 to 1914 Verlag Militaria, Vienna
Austria, the tradition badge was given to the Regiment
after an incident during the 1812 war of liberation
against France, when a group of Dragoons from this
regiment were riding their horses bareback to water,
but still managed to repel a French cavalry attack.
363
A photo of a Feldwebel (Warrant-Officer) from 1.

Brandenburgisches Dragoner-Regt. Nr.2. He is
wearing a light blue Schirmmtze with black visor
and piping.
A scarce photo of a young Dragon from 1. Brandenburgisches DragonerRegt. Nr.2 wearing a Model 1915 pattern Schirmmtze with a grey visor.
The Edelweiabzeichen
After the entrance of Italy into the war, in May 1915 in
order to support Austria-Hungary an Alpenkorps
(alpine corps) was stood-up, which was actually a
Jger-Divison. Immediately the k.u.k.
Landesverteidigungs-Kommando (Austrian national
defense command) Tirol sent the new Alpenkorps
20.000 Edelweiabzeichen (Edelwei insignia) which
were already being worn by k.u.k. Troops. The
Alpenkorps instruction of 20 June 1915 allowed the
distribution of the Edelweiabzeichen immediately to
the troops. Only later was permission requested with
the Preuen War Ministry.
364
The Kaiser decided not to reject this gift from the

Erzherzog Eugen von sterreich (commander of the
front) and announced approval on 5 September
1915. The king of Bayern gave his approval on 11
September 1915 and the king of Wrttemberg on 20
September 1915. The Alpenkorps wished to present
the Edelweiabzeichen to replacement troops
allocated to the Korps, but the Preuen war ministry
insisted on a restriction to the original units.
An Edelwie in my garden in
New Brunswick Canada.
In accordance with Bavarian. instruction of 21 March

1916 only those troops which had fought from July to
October 1915 in the theater of war in Tirol and had
received the badge there, were authorized to wear it.
Other Gebirgstruppen (mountain units) not in the
Alpenkorps were not authorized to wear the Edelwei.
365

Rick Lundstrm
The most commonly seen pattern of Edelwie in

photos, is the pattern with just the head of the
flower. In this photo it is being worn by Leutnant
der Reserve Erich Kohler, stellv. Kompagniefhrer
11./ k.b. Reserve Infanterie Regiment 12, killed in
action 7 June 1918 in the Logeastwalde near
Bucquoy.
The Edelwie was worn on the left side of the
366
Krtzchen or Schirmmtze. In this photo, a Bayern

soldier wears an Edelwei on his Krtzchen where
the Reich's Kokarde was, which indicates that he
was almost certainly in a Freikorps unit and the
photo was taken after 1918.
This photo of an NCO in the Infanterie-Leib-Regt.

(Mnchen) I Bayer. Armee-Korps shows another
pattern of Edelwei occasionally seen in photos.
This pattern has an entire flower.
367
The Karpathenabzeichen
For the battles in Karpathen under extreme winter
conditions in mountainous terrain, on 17 December
1916 the Austrian Kaiser Karl von sterreich
approved a special insignia for the k.u.k. (Austrian)
368
7. Armee. On 01 February 1917 a commemorative

insignia called the Karpathenabzeichen was
approved by Bayern (Bavarian) Knig Ludwig III
for the Bayern 1. and 200. Inf Divisions who were
under the command of the k.u.k. (Austrian)7.
Armee. For the design of the insignia, a competition
was run in the Korps, and the Kaiser approved the
draft. The official Karpathenabzeichen was
introduced on 11 July 1917 and consisted of stag's
antlers surrounded by oak leaves, with a Bandeau
"KARPATHENKORPS" in the center with a sword
behind it. The Karpathenabzeichen was worn
centered between the Reich's Kokarde and the
contingent Kokarde on all cloth headgear.
Feldgeistliche (Field clergyman)

Prior to AKO 3 July 1913, Feldgeistliche wore a
traditional German black felt clergy hat. A
Schirmmtze was not authorized until the AKO of
1913. A white enameled cross was worn by
Catholic and Lutheran clergymen. Jewish Rabies
369
wore the same cap without the cross. This photo

shows the large version of the cross.

Chris Liontas

Chris Liontas
This Catholic Feldgeistliche wears the smaller

version of the white enameled cross.
370
This Bayern (Bavarian) Catholic Feldgeistliche

wears the cross above the Kokarden, which is not in
accordance with regulations.
371

Chris Liontas
Beamte
Militrebeamte (Military employed officials) wore
small silver or gilt contingent Wappens (see image
below) on the cap.
372
Kaiserliche Deutsche Feldpost (Post Office)

The Kaiserliche Deutsche Feldpost (Post Office) in
wartime was mobilized to support the Army. The
insignia worn on the Kaiserliche Deutsche Feldpost
was a small gilt Imperial eagle clutching the
traditional postal signal horn in its talons.
Kokarden
1842
AKO 4 November 1842 introduced a Preuen Kokarde in
the national colors of black/white/black which was worn on
the center of the Feldmtze band.
373
An AKO = Allerhchste-Kabinetts-Ordre (All Highest

Cabinet Order) was a directive issued by the King of
Preuen (Prussia) to proclaim an approved article of
clothing or equipment for general issue.
This Unteroffiizier (NCO) in one of the Garde Regt. zu Fu
Regiments is wearing a Model 1867 Sch
374
irmmtze.
The Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Kokarde was stamped

one-piece metal painted in the national colors with two
holes on the front to allow it to be sewn to the Feldmtze,
and with two prongs on the back for the Schirmmtze. It
was worn by Private to Sergeant.
Officers and Portepee-Unteroffiiziere (NCOs entitled to
wear the Officer's sword knot) were entitled to wear the socalled "officer" pattern Kokarde with separate silver metal
ring attached to a flat fiber backing that was secured to the
Schirmmtze with split prongs.
375
The Kokarde only worn by Officers and PortepeeUnteroffiiziere had a single distinctive diagonal ribbing ring
prior to 1867. The post-1867 officer Kokarde has a "double
ring".
Contingent Kokarden of the Kingdoms, Grand Duchies,

Principalities,
and Free Hanseatic cities of the Empire.
1897 Reich's Kokarde
376
In 1897 a new Reich's Kokarde in Red/White/Black was

introduced for all ranks to commemorate the 100th
anniversary of the birth of Kaiser Wilhelm 1st. The Reich's
Kokarde was to be worn on the right side of the
Pickelhaube, and worn centered between the band and the
top row of piping on Krtzchen and Schirmmtze, as shown
on this Mannschaften (Other Ranks) private purchase
Sachsen (Saxon) Husaren-Regt. Nr.19 Krtzchen.
Mannschaften issue pattern

A close up of the issue pattern sewn-on Mannschaften
Kokarden on an issued Preuen Garde Krassier Regt
Garde-Korps issue Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Krtzchen
377
.
The standard issued Kokarden was identical for both
Dunkelblau and Feldgrau Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
Krtzchen as shown on this Model 1910 (in the 1916 color)
Bayern (Bavaria) Train (supply) example.
378
Mannschaften private purchase

The Mannschaften (Other Ranks) private purchase
Kokadren held on with split prongs was identical for both
Dunkelblau and Feldgrau Mannschaften Schirmmtze as
shown on this Model 1910 Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
Dragoner Regt. Knig Friedrich III (2.Schlesisches) Nr. 8
example.
379
Officers and Portepee-Unteroffiiziere

A close up of the standard Officer's and PortepeeUnteroffiiziere two-piece Schirmmtze Kokarden.
380
Bayern (Bavaria) Officers

Bayern officer's wore a Kokarden with a felt center and
mock bullion outer ring as seen with this example. There
was a Reich's Kokarde version of this mock bullion outer
ring pattern, but it seems the Reich's version was unpopular
and it is almost never encountered on surviving examples
381
.
The Bayern (Bavaria) Mannschaften (Other Ranks) private
purchase Kokarden was considerably different from the
other contingents, and also had a mock bullion outer ring
with a painted inner ring, as seen on this example on a
Chevaulager Regt 1 Private Purchase Krtzchen.
Reserve and Landwehr

Reserve and Landwehr Mtzen carry a tiny cross officially
called "the Landwehr cross" on the Kokarden, so there is no
difference between Reserve and Landwehr Krtzchen and
Schirmmtzen. The Reserve wore cloth Mtzen like the
regular army from 1808 on, as did the the Landwehr beginning
in 1813. The Landwehr cloth Mtze, however, carried a large
382
Landwehr cross, which was worn wore until the Landwehr

adopted a Wachstuche (oilcloth) Schirmmtze in 1817. The
Landwehr wore a Wachstuche (oilcloth) Schirmmtze until
they adopted the Pickelhaube in 1842, and from that year on,
also wore cloth Mtzen like the regular army and the Reserve.
Prior to 1914, the Landsturm only wore the Wachstuchmtze
(oil-cloth cap) with a gilt or white metal Landwehr cross on
the top. In 1914 in order to meet the needs of mobilization, the
Landsturm were issued cloth Mtzen like the rest of the Army.
This was made formal in 1916 when the Landsturm finally
adopted the Pickelhaube. For the Landsturm, the cross on the
Kokarde is gilt. Below are four different patterns of Reserve
and Landwehr officer and Portepee-Unteroffiiziere Kokarden.
For the Reserve and Landwehr, the cross on the Kokarde is
silver. Often the Landwehr cross will be identical to the larger
version on the Pickelhaube, and will carry a tiny motto.
Preuen units carried a motto "Fr Koenig und Vaterland" on
the Landwehr cross, Baden carried "Fr Frst and Vaterland",
Hessen carried "Gott Ehre Vaterland", Hansiatic states carried
"mitt Gott Furs Vaterland" while Bavaria and Wurttemberg
had no motto and the cross was blank.
Pre-1867 Preuen with a large

cross and single "ring"
One-piece Baden with small

inner cross
383
Two-piece Mecklenburg with

small inner cross
Two-piece Preuen with tiny

seperate cross
The Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Reserve and Landwehr

Kokadren tended to be of the pattern shown here, with the
cross inset into the center, and sewn on with double holes
on the outside edge as shown on this Wrttemberg
example.
Reich's Assets
The Seebataillons (Marines) were a Reich's asset, and as
such only wore a single Reich's Kokarde on the lower band,
as shown by this young Marine wearing a Model 1907/10
Feldgrau Schirmmtze.
384
This Wrttemberg Landjgerkorps issued Schirmmtze

shows that on Mtzen worn after 1897, if they were only
contingent specific, they only wore the contingent Kokarde
and did not wear the Reich's Kokarde.
385
Imperial German Dunkleblau

Headgear 1860 to 1910.
Cloth
Infantry

Bayern (Bavaria)
Infantry Mannschaften
Schirmmtze
Preuen
Infantry Mannschaften
Schirmmtze
386
Preuen
Infantry Regt 137
Mannschaften
(Other Ranks) Issue
Krtzchen
Preuen
Infantry
Private Purchase Mannschaften
(Other Ranks) Krtzchen
Wrttembergisches (Wrttemberg)
Infantry Regt 119
Mannschaften
(Other Ranks) Schirmmtze
Jger and Schtzen
Preuen
Garde-Schtzen-Batl.
issued Krtzchen
Preuen (Hannover)
Jger Battalion 10
1 Year Volunteer Schirmmtze
Sachsen (Saxon)
Schutzen Regt 108
Private Purchase Tellermtze
Sachsen (Saxon)
Schtzen Regiment Nr.108
NCO Schirmmtze
Cavalry
387
Bayern (Bavaria)
Chevaulager Regt 1
Baden
Reserve Dragoner Regt 20
Officer's Schirmmtze
Preuen
Preuen
Regt. der Gardes du
Preuen
Garde Krassier Regt
Corps
Dragoner Regt Nr. 8
Issued Mannschaften
(Other
Ranks)
Krtzchen
(Other Ranks) Krtzchen

Preuen
Ulanen Regt
Preuen
Husaren Regt 4
Preuen
Mannschaften
Husaren Regt 3
Officer's Schirmmtze (Other Ranks) Krtzchen
Sachsen (Saxon)
Husaren Regt 19
Mannschaften
(Other Ranks) Tellermtze
Preuen
Husaren Regt 15
388
Schirmmtze
Artillerie, Pioniere and Verkehrstruppen

Wrttembergisches (Wrttemberg)
Feld-Artillerie
Eigentumsstck (private purchase)
Tellermtze
Preuen
Issued Feld-Artillerie
Mannschaften Krtzchen
Preuen
Preuen
Artillerie, Pioniere And Artillerie, Pioniere And
Verkehrstruppen
Verkehrstruppen
Officer's
Schirmmtze
NCO's Schirmmtze
Sachsen (Saxon)
Feld-Artillerie
NCO's Schirmmtze
Miscellaneous Units
Wrttemberg
Landjgerkorps
Schirmmtze
Preuen
M1867 Eisenbahn-Regt.
Schirmmtze
Bayern (Bavaria) Infantry Mannschaften

Schirmmtze
389
Bayern (Bavaria) Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Eigentumsstck (private

purchase) Schirmmtze (visor cap). Typically, all Imperial German privatelypurchased headgear and uniforms were made from a fine doe-skin wool. Only
the Bavarians seem to have used a ribbed twill on private purchase
Waffenrocks and headgear, as seen on this example.
A very interesting feature of this Schirmmtze, is that the Bayern
Mannschaften issue pattern Kokarden is the sew-on pattern from an issued
Krtzchen.
The upper Reich's Kokarde is also very interesting, in that it is not stamped
metal as is typically found, rather, it is manufactured from a composite
material.
390
391
A close up of the Bayern

Mannschaften issue Krtzchen
pattern Kokarden.
Close examination reveals that two
brass prongs have been soldered on
the reverse of the Kokarde, allowing
it to be worn on a Schirmmtze.
Impossible you say? This period photo of a Bayern soldier shows that he is
clearly wearing a Bayern Mannschaften sew-on issue pattern Kokarden
from a Krtzchen on his Schirmmtze!
A sincere thank you goes out to Robert Hinesley for giving me this photo
to use.
392
The side profile showing the interesting shape of this example; flat, with very
wide Teller (plate) shape which protrudes well past the cap band.
The inside of the Schirmmtze reveals a lime-green cloth lining, with a
393
leather sweatband.
There is no manufacturer's mark visible.
Preuen Infantry Mannschaften

394
Preuen Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Schirmmtze. The cap is a

high quality example with Mannschaften Kokarden that are held on with split
prongs, rather than sewn on.
395
A close up of the standard Mannschaften Schirmmtze Kokarden.
396
The inside of the cap. Unfortunately, the manufacturer's mark has faded away
from time.
397
A rare grouping; the matching Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen Fibreboard

Pickelhaube, Model 1895 XXI Armee-Korps Waffenrock, and Schirmmtze.
To see the Ersatz Fibreboard Pickelhaube click Here. To see the Waffenrock
click Here.
Preuen Infantry Regiment 137

Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
issue Krtzchen
398
Preuen Infantry 137 Mannschaften (Other Ranks) issue

Krtzchen for 2. Unter - Elsssisches. Inf. - Regt. Nr. 137,
Hagenau XXI. Armee Korps. The cap is made from a very
dark blue issue wool, with standard issue Mannschaften
Kokarden (sewn on).
A close up of the standard Mannschaften Schirmmtze
Kokarden
.
The inside of the cap is well marked "JR 137" and "BA"
on the tan cloth lining. Various other issue markings are
also visible.
399
Preuen Private Purchase

Krtzchen (cap)
400
Preuen private purchase Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Krtzchen

(cap). Contrary to issued Krtzchen, the private purchase example
has a black silk lining and Kokarden that are held on with split
prongs, rather than sewn on.
A close up of the private purchase Mannschaften Schirmmtze
Kokarden.
401
The inside of the cap lacks any visible markings.
The Krtzchen with a matching Waffenrock and Pickelhaube. The

piping and band on the Krtzchen are in the infantry facing color
402
of red, while the fittings on the Pickelhaube match the color of the
buttons on the Waffenrock.
Wrttemberg
Infantry Regt 119
Mannschaften
(Other Ranks)
Schirmmtze
A close up of the standard

Mannschaften Schirmmtze
Kokarden.
403
The inside of the cap is maker

marked "B. Gehr UniformenMtzen-Fabrik" with the street
address, as well as unit marked
"1.Ers.- Komp. Ers.- Btl. Res.-119".
.
A close up of the standard Preuen

Mannschaften issue pattern
Kokarden
404
The inside of the Krtzchen reveals

the standard issue pattern cloth
lining.
The cloth liner carries

several issue stamps:
"B.A.G 1905" (Clothing
depot of the Garde-Korps),
"G.S.B" (Garde-SchtzenBatl.), "1906", "C"
(unknown) and stamps to a
costume house.
On the lining is also a cloth
tag marking the cap as
405
being worn by "Einj.

Freiwilliger Schmidt 3
Comp G.S.B. (one year
volunteer Schmidt 3rd
Company Garde-SchtzenBatl.).
Preuen Jger Eigetumsstck Schirmmtze.

Eigetumsstck were clothing items that were
privately purchased by an individual. An
Eigetumsstck could be purchased by any soldier
dependant upon the wealth of the individual, but they
were always purchased for wear by EinjhrigFreiwilliger (One year volunteer) and Fhnrich. This
quality cap is marked to a Einjhrig-Freiwilliger (One
year volunteer) and manufactured from a very high
quality green doeskin wool.
406
The inside is owner

marked "Einj Freiwilliger Schmiele 1.
Komp. Jger Bn. No.
10" on the underside of
the sweatband, for for
Hannoversches Jger Batl. Nr. 10, Goslar, X
Armee Korps. The
lining is silk.
407
A young Jger of Jger

- Batl. Nr. 10 wearing a
very similar
Schirmmtze.
Saxon Schutzen Regiment

108 Private Purchase
Mannschaften (Other
408
Ranks) Tellermtze (cap)
Saxon Schutzen Regiment 108 Private Purchase

Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Tellermtze (cap)
for Knigl. Schs. Schtzen - Fsilier) Regt. Prinz
Georg Nr. 108 Dresden XII. Armee Korps. Unlike
issue Mtzen, the private purchase example is
made from a high quality doeskin wool with a silk
lining. The enlisted Kokarden are held on with
split prongs, rather than sewn on.
A close up of the Mannschaften Kokarden.
409
Sachsen Schtzen
Regiment Nr.108 NCO
Schirmmtze
Sachsen (Saxon) NCO Schirmmtze from Kgl.

Schs. Schtzen (Fsilier)-Regiment Prinz
Georg Nr.108, Dresden, XII Armee Korps. This
very nice quality Schirmmtze is made from a
high quality Dunkelgrn (dark green) doeskin
wool with Ponceaurot (poppy red) piping. The
Sachsen Dunkelgrn was darker than Preuen
Jger, looking almost green/black.
A close up of the standard Sachsen
Mannschaften private purchase pattern
Kokarden with split pins to retain them onto
the cap.
6
410
A side view of this example.

The inside of the Schirmmtze reveals a
orange/brown cloth lining with a leather
sweatband.
The cap was manufactured by Julius Khn of
Dresden, and was stamped "E" for Eigentum
411
(property) as being purchased by Schtzen

Regt. Nr.108 for issue to an NCO.
A matching Waffenrock, Tschako, and

Schirmmtze for a Sergeant in the Kgl. Schs.
Schtzen (Fsilier)-Regiment Prinz Georg
Nr.108, Dresden, XII Armee Korps.
Officer's Reserve
412
Baden
Dragoon Regt 20
Schirmmtze
Officer's Reserve Baden

Schirmmtze for 1. Badisches
Leib- Dragoner - Regt. Nr. 20
Karlsruhe XIV. Armee Korps.
This cap demonstrates superb
craftsmanship, and is
manufactured from the highest
quality doeskin wool.
Kokarden.
413
The inside of the cap is owner

marked with a gilt embossed
"v.S" on the inside silk lining.
The superb quality of the
"water pattern" silk is clearly
evident in this photo.
414
Bayern Chevaulager
Regiment 1
Private Purchase
Tellermtze
415
Bayern Chevaulager private purchase

Tellermtze for 1 Chevaulagers - Regt.
Kaiser Nikolaus von Ruland, Nrnberg
III. Armee Korps. This cap is superbly
made and manufactured from the highest
quality doeskin wool. This is by far, the
highest quality Mannschaften cap I have
ever seen.
A close up of the standard Mannschaften
Schirmmtze Kokarden
.
The inside of the cap is maker marked
"Militr - Effekten Otto Becker
Nrnberg" with a wonderful crowed
eagle cypher on the lining.
416
A close view of the silver embossed

Nrnberg maker's mark.
417
A Chevauleger
proudly poses with
his mother.
The Tellermtze with matching

Waffenrock and Pickelhaube. The piping
and band on the Krtchen are in the
regimental facing color, while the fittings
on the Pickelhaube match the color of the
buttons on the Waffenrock.
Bayern Chevaulager Regiment 1

418
Bayern Chevaulager private purchase Tellermtze for 1 Chevaulagers Regt. Kaiser Nikolaus von Ruland, Nrnberg III. Armee Korps. This cap
is superbly made and manufactured from the highest quality doeskin wool.
This is by far, the highest quality Mannschaften cap I have ever seen.
A close up of the standard Mannschaften Schirmmtze Kokarden.
419
The inside of the cap is maker marked "Militr - Effekten Otto Becker
Nrnberg" with a wonderful crowed eagle cypher on the lining.
420
A close view of the silver embossed Nrnberg maker's mark.
421
A Chevauleger proudly poses with

his mother.
422
The Tellermtze with matching Waffenrock and Pickelhaube. The piping

and band on the Krtchen are in the regimental facing color, while the
fittings on the Pickelhaube match the color of the buttons on the
Waffenrock.
Officer's Preuen Dragoner Regt 8 or 16

Schirmmtze
423
Officer's Schirmmtze for one of two Regiments: Dragoner-Regt. Knig

Friedrich III (2.Schlesisches) Nr.8 (Kreuzburg/Bernstadt/Namslau) VI Armee
Korps, or 2. Hannoversches Dragoner-Regt. Nr.16 (Lneburg) X Armee
Korps. This cap demonstrates superb craftsmanship, and is manufactured from
the highest quality doeskin wool.
424

Kokarden.
425
The interior reveals a silk

cloth lining with a leather
sweat band. Two post-war
costumer's ink stamps are on
the inside crown.
426
A matching officer's private purchase berrock, Pickelhaube, and

Schirmmtze from Dragoner Regt. Knig Friedrich III (2.Schlesisches) Nr. 8
VI Armee - Korps Kreuzburg/Berstadt/Namslau.
Officer's Preuen Dragoner Regt 8 or 16 Schirmmtze
427
Officer's Schirmmtze for one of two Regiments: Dragoner-Regt. Knig

Friedrich III (2.Schlesisches) Nr.8 (Kreuzburg/Bernstadt/Namslau) VI Armee
Korps, or 2. Hannoversches Dragoner-Regt. Nr.16 (Lneburg) X Armee
Korps. This cap demonstrates superb craftsmanship, and is manufactured from
the highest quality doeskin wool.

Kokarden.
428
The interior reveals a silk

cloth lining with a leather
sweat band. Two post-war
costumer's ink stamps are on
the inside crown.
429
A matching officer's private purchase berrock, Pickelhaube, and

Schirmmtze from Dragoner Regt. Knig Friedrich III (2.Schlesisches) Nr. 8
VI Armee - Korps Kreuzburg/Berstadt/Namslau.
Preuen Garde Krassier Regt
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Krtzchen (cap)
430
Preuen Garde Krassier Regt Garde-Korps issue Mannschaften (Other

Ranks) Krtzchen (cap). The cap is made of yellow-white (cream) kirsey, with
a cornflower blue band and piping.
A close up of the Mannschaften Kokarden.
The cap is clearly marked BAG (Clothing Depot of the Garde) 1908 and
G.K.R. on the cloth lining..
431
Officer's Preuen Ulanen Schirmmtze
432
433
Officer's Preuen Ulanen Schirmmtze. This is a good quality example

manufactured from doeskin wool. Only Ulanen Officers utilized this very dark
blue color. Infantry Officers utilized a much lighter shade of blue.

Kokarden.
434
The inside silk lining is

unmarked. This example has
a
nice
cream-colored
underside to the visor.
Officer's Preuen Husaren Regt 3

Schirmmtze
435
Officer's Preuen Husaren Schirmmtze for Husaren - Regt. Von Zieten

(Brandenburgisches) Nr. 3 Ratenow III. Armee Korps. This cap is superbly
manufactured and made from a very high quality doeskin wool. This is as
good as it gets for an Imperial German Schirmmtze.
A close up of the standard Officer's Schirmmtze Kokarden
436
.
The inside is owner marked with a crown and the initial "L" cypher
indicating the owner was a member of a Royal Family. Maker marked with
the cypher of "C.W. Bochert Berlin W." the uniform and cap maker to
HRH Kaiser Wilehem II. on the silk lining.
437
Preuen Husaren-Regt. Nr.4

Mannschaften Krtzchen
438
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) issued Krtzchen (cap) from Preuen HusarenRegt. von Schill (1.Schlesisches) Nr.4 (Ohlau) VI Armee Korps. HusarenRegt. Nr.4 was only unit in the Imperial Army to have Dunkelbraun (dark
brown) clothing and cloth headgear. Consequently, the Regiment was known
as "Die Braunen Husaren" (The brown Hussars). This example is in
remarkable condition for being issued in 1912; there is no moth tracking or
damage of any kind, a testament to the durability of the high quality wool
used on issued clothing.
A close up of the standard Preuen Mannschaften issue pattern Kokarden
439
.
The inside of the Krtzchen reveals the standard issue pattern cloth lining
.
440
The cloth liner carries several issue stamps:

"B.A.VI" (VI Armee Korps)
"H.R.4" (Husaren-Regt. Nr.4)
"1912" and
"E.5" (5th Squadron).
441
Hannover Husaren Regt Nr. 15

Mannschaften
442
Hannover Husaren Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Schirmmtze for HusarenRegt. Knigin Wilhelmena der Niederlande (Hannoversches) Nr.15
(Wandsbek) VIII Armee Korps. Although not a high-quality cap, it is
manufactured from a very good quality dark blue doeskin wool.
The inside is not maker marked, typical for a low-quality cap.
443
A close-up of the Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Kokarden.
444
445
The matching Pelzmtze, Attila, and Schirmmtze for Husaren Regt Nr. 15.
To see the Attila click Here. To see the Pelzmtze click
Sachsen (Saxon) Husaren-Regt. Nr.19
Mannschaften Tellermtze
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Eigentumsstck (private purchase) Tellermtze

(cap) from Kgl. Schs. 2. Husaren-Regt. Nr.19 (Grimma) XIX Armee Korps.
446
This is a very nice quality private purchase example with a leather sweatband.
A close up of the standard Sachsen Mannschaften private purchase
Kokarden that are held on with split prongs, rather than sewn on.
The Krtchen was manufactured by "Militr Effekten Uniform & Schler

Mtzen, Hut & Pelzwaren Lger, Ludw. (Ludwig) Vlherr"
447
A rare set: the matching Pelzmtze, Attila, and Tellermtze for Kgl. Schs. 2.
Husaren-Regt. Nr.19. To see the Pelzmtze click Here.To see the Attila click
Here.
Preuen Feld-Artillerie Mannschaften

448
Krtzchen
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) issued Krtzchen (cap) from Preuen Triersches

Feld-Artillerie-Regt. Nr.44 (Trier) IX Armee Korps. This example is imade
from the very thick and durable wool used on issued clothing.
A close up of the standard Preuen Mannschaften issue pattern Kokarden
449
.
The inside of the Krtzchen reveals the standard issue pattern cloth lining.
At first this looks like just a nice little Feldartillerie (Field Artillery)
Dunkelblau Krtzchen, but its the interior that makes this a very interesting
little cap.
450
451
The "common understanding" is that all Einjhrig-Freiwilliger (One year

volunteer) were required to buy their own uniforms etc. However, in truth,
issue items such as Waffenrock, Pickelhaube, and Mtze etc were made
available to Einjhrig-Freiwilliger for use for an annual fee. This example
shows that in some cases, clothing items were marked as being specifically for
issue to Einjhrig-Freiwilliger. In addition to a cloth owner's label named to a
Einjhrig-Freiwilliger Stampfer, the cloth liner carries several issue stamps:
"Feldart.R.44" (Feld-Artillerie-Regt. Nr.44)
Issue dates of: "1905" and "1908"
"IIA" and 'II" (2nd Garnitur condition stamp = walking out dress)
"4B" (4th Gun Battery)
"F.A.R.44 E.Fr." (Feld-Artillerie-Regt. Nr.44 Einjhrig-Freiwilliger)
Wrttembergisches Feld-Artillerie Mannschaften Krtzchen
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Eigentumsstck (private purchase) Krtzchen

(cap) from Wrttembergisches Feld-Artillerie. This example is in superb
condition with no moth tracking or damage of any kind.
The inside of the Krtzchen reveals a nice quality liner with leather
sweatband.
452
A detail of the manufacturer's mark "Uniformmtzen Militaireffectin Foh.

Hiller Cannstatt b.d. Kaserne" (Uniform and hat military effects, Foh.
Hiller Cannstatt by the Kaserne).
Cannstatt is town in the kingdom of Wrttemberg, situated in a fertile
valley on both banks of the Neckar close to Stuttgart. Near the town is the
mountain of Rotenberg where formerly stood the ancestral castle of the
house of Wrttemberg, is the mausoleum of King William of and his wife
453
A matching Wrttembergisches Feldartillerie private purchase Waffenrock,

Pickelhaube, and Krtzchen. To see the Pickelhaube click Here. To see the
454
Preuen Senior NCO's Schirmmtze for Artillerie, Pioniere and

Verkehrstruppen
Preuen Senior NCO's Schirmmtze for Artillerie, Pioniere and

Verkehrstruppen. (see the German glossary for more explanation). for an
Unteroffizier mit Portepee (The two highest rank of NCO, who were entitled
to wear the Officer's sword knot). This is a medium quality cap, made from a
good quality doeskin wool.
A close up of the standard Officer's Schirmmtze Kokarden worn by
Unteroffizier mit Portepee.
This Schirmmtze can only be for Unteroffizier mit Portepee as the band is
black wool. An officer's Schirmmtze would have a black velvet band.
455
Officer's Preuen Reserve Schirmmtze

for Artillerie, Pioniere and
Verkehrstruppen
456
Officer's Preuen Reserve Schirmmtze for Artillerie, Pioniere and

Verkehrstruppen. (see the German glossary for more explanation). This high
quality cap is made from a doeskin wool with a black velvet band.
457
A close up of
the standard
Officer's
Schirmmtze
Kokarden.
458
The
inside silk
liner is
unmarked
.
Sachsen (Saxon) Feld-Artillerie

Mannschaften Schirmmtze
459
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Eigentumsstck (private purchase) Schirmmtze

(visor cap) from Sachsen (Saxon) Feld-Artillerie with actual leather visor.
This example is in nice condition with no moth tracking and the type of age
and wear that a collector likes to see on the leather (not Vulcanfibre) visor.
This Schirmmtze in these colours was also wore by Sachsen Pionier
(Engineers).
The inside of the Schirmmtze reveals a nice unmarked silk liner with
leather sweatband.
460
A close up of the standard Sachsen Mannschaften private purchase pattern

Kokarden with split pins to retain them onto the cap.
461
462
A matching Sachsen Feldartillerie private purchase Waffenrock, Pickelhaube,

and Schirmmtze. To see the Pickelhaube click Here. To see the Waffenrock
click Here.
Wrttemberg Landjgerkorps
Schirmmtze
463
Wrttemberg Landjgerkorps issued Schirmmtze. The Landjgerkorps were

military police similar to the Preuen Gendarmerie. The Schirmmtze is a
very dark dunkelgrnem (dark green) issue-quality doe-skin wool with
kornblumenblaues (corn flower blue) band and red piping. Note that the only
Kokarden worn on the cap is the issue pattern Wrttemberg Kokarde. No
Reich's Kokarde was worn by this unit as it was specific to Wrttemberg.
The interior of the Schirmmtze is completely lined in a heavy grey linen.
The interior is stamped "LK" for Landjgerkorps
A close-up of the issued pattern Wrttemberg Kokarden. This pattern of

Kokarden was worn by Landjger Mannschaften (Other Ranks).
464
465
A Wrttemberg Landjger wearing

the Schirmmtze. The man in the
photo wears a Sergeant's Waffenrock,
but the officer's sword knot identifies
him as a Vize-Feldwebel, the next
senior rank. Note that the only
Kokarden worn on the cap is the
Wrttemberg Kokarde.
Photo used with the kind permission
of Thomas Brackmann of
Imperial German Photographs.
466
An exceptionally rare grouping; the matching Landjgerkorps Pickelhaube,

Waffenrock, and Schirmmtze. To see the Pickelhaube click Here. To see the
Model 1867 Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Schirmmtze.The flat Teller (plate)

shape and the small visor is typical of pre-1900 Schirmmtze, however, this
Schirmmtze was probably manufactured in the 1870s as it has the fat piping
and high top typical of that period. This is a decent quality cap manufactured
from a good quality dark blue doeskin wool.
The Preuen Eisenbahn Regt was formed in 1875 as part of the
Verkehrstruppen (Transportation Troops) and were tasked with the operation
and repair of the rail lines for the Army.
There is no manufacturer's stamp in the Schirmmtze, but the owner's

name (Louvfans?) is written three times on the interior.
467
468
An exceptionally rare grouping; the matching Waffenrock, Pickelhaube, and

Schirmmtze for the Preuen Eisenbahn-Regt. To see the Pickelhaube click
Here. To see the Waffenrock click Here.
Infantry
Preuen
5. Garde-Regt. zu Fu
Issued
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Waffenrock
Preuen
Infantry Regt 17
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Waffenrock
Preuen (Hannover)
Fsilier Regt 73
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Waffenrock
469
Preuen (Hannover)
Infantry Regt 74
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Waffenrock
Sachsen (Saxon)
Infantry Regt 107
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Greatcoat
Wrttemberg
Grenadier Regt 119
Model 1871
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Waffenrock
Jger

Preuen GardeSchtzen-Batl..
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Waffenrock
Preuen
Jger Battalion 4
NCO Waffenrock
Hannoversches
Jger-Bataillon Nr.10
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Waffenrock
470
Sachsen (Saxon)
Jger-Bataillon Nr.12
Waffenrock
Sachsen (Saxon)
Schtzen-Regt 108
NCO Waffenrock
Cavalry
Bayern (Bavaria)
Kgl. Bayer. 1. Chevaulegers-Regt.
Waffenrock
Baden
1. Badisches Leib-Dragoner-Regt.
Nr.20.
Einjhrig-Freiwilliger Waffenrock
Preuen
Husaren Regt 10
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Attila
Preuen
Husaren Regt 15
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Attila
Preuen
Garde Krassier Regt
NCO Koller
471

Preuen
Dragoner Regt 8
Officer's berrock
Preuen
Ulanen Regt Nr. 14
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Ulanka
Preuen
Garde Ulanen Regt
Nr.2
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Ulanka
Click to Enlarge
Click to Enlarge
Sachsen (Saxon)
Ulanen Regt Nr.17
NCO Ulanka
Wrttemberg
Ulanen Regt 19
Unteroffizier's Ulanka
Artillery and Train
Preuen
4th Garde Artillery
Mannschaften (Other
Preuen (Hannover)
Field Artillery Regt 26
Mannschaften (Other
Sachsen (Saxon)
NCO Waffenrock
472
Ranks) Waffenrock
Ranks) Waffenrock
Wrttemberg
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Waffenrock
Preuen
Foot Artillery Regt 8
Officer's berrock
Baden
Train Battalion 14
NCO Waffenrock
Miscellaneous Units
Wrttemberg
Landjgerkorps
NCO Waffenrock
Preuen
M1867 Eisenbahn-Regt.
Waffenrock
Preuen 5. Garde-Regt. zu Fu
Issued Waffenrock
Issued Waffenrock for the 5. Garde-Regt. zu Fu (Spandau) Garde-Korps
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Waffenrock. The Waffenrock is a dunkelblau
473
(dark blue) issue-quality doe-skin wool with red cloth collar and
Brandenburg cuffs. All buttons are silver and the Waffenrock is piped in
red along the front opening as well as the rear skirts.
The collar and cuff carry altpreuen (Old Prussian) white Garde Litzen.
Only 3 Infantry regiments in the German forces wore altpreuen Garde
Litzen, but only the 5. Garde-Regt. zu Fu wore white altpreuen Garde
Litzen with red Spiegel (center).
The vented rear skirt introduced in 1895 and the large buttons (used prior
to 1895) identify this Waffenrock as being made shortly on or after 1895.
474
A view of the collar and shoulder straps. The shoulder straps are blank white,
as the 5. Garde-Regt. zu Fu was one of only two Infantry regts to wear blank
white straps.
Note how the white cloth altpreuen (Old Prussian) Garde Litzen with red
Spiegel (center) with taper to a point at the rear. At one time the tunic was
issued to a Gefreiter (Corporal) as there is evidence of a single rank button
on each side of the collar, which are now sewn shut. The button on the
shoulder strap designates the 9th company.
475
A close-up of the Brandenburg cuffs with altpreuen (Old Prussian) white

Garde Litzen.
476
A close-up of the issue

stamps on the white
lining. The liner is
clearly marked BAG
(Clothing Depot of the
Garde) 1913 and 5GR
1913 for 5. Garde-Regt.
zu Fu.
A close-up of the leather reinforced lower front buttons, a feature unique to

issue Waffenrock.
477
478
The back of the

Waffenrock
showing the rear
skirt piping.
479
A Private from the

Preuen 5. Garde-Regt. zu
Fu proudly poses for the
camera in Waffenrock
with an issued Pickelhaube
with white parade plume.
Eigentumsstck Waffenrock
Infanterie-Regt. Graf Barfu (4.Westflisches) Nr.17
Eigentumsstck (private purchase) Waffenrock from Infanterie-Regt. Graf

Barfu (4.Westflisches) Nr.17 (Mrchingen) XXI Armee Korps. The XXI
Amree-Korps was the last Amree-Korps raised and was not on the orderof-battle until 1912. The XXI Amree-Korps is also distinctive, as it was the
only AK to wear green shoulder straps; prior to 1912, IR17 was with the
VII Armee-Koprs and wore red shoulder straps.
The Waffenrock is a dark-blue doe-skin wool with red collar and Swedish
cuffs.
As is typical for infantry, the facing color was red and is reflected by the
red collar, cuffs, and piping down the front pane and rear skirt.
480
481
A view of the collar and shoulder straps. The single gilt Preuen button worn on each
side of the collar designates the rank of Gefreiter (Cpl).
The back of the Waffenrock showing the piping arrangement on the rear
skirt.
482
483
484
A view of
one of the
shoulder
straps.
485
A rare grouping; the matching Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen Fibreboard Pickelhaube,
Model 1895 XXI Armee-Korps Waffenrock, and Schirmmtze.
Preuen (Hannover) Fsilier Regt 73
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Waffenrock
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Waffenrock from Fsilier Regt General

Feldmarschall Prinz Albrecht von Preuen (Hannoversches) Nr. 73 X.AK.
The tunic is an early issued Dunkelblau wool with numerous issue
markings and dates for IR73.
The GIBRALTAR cuff title was bestowed on the Regt on 24.01.1901 by
HM Kaiser Wilhelm II for service by this Regt on Gibraltar from 1775 to
1783.
486
487
A view of the collar and shoulder straps. The two gilt Preuen buttons on each side of
the collar designates the rank of Gefreiter (Cpl).
The cuff title is yellow hand-embroidered on blue wool. The Brandenburg

cuff is piped in light blue, correct for the X Armee-Korps Hannover.
488
The sleeves and the top interior of the tunic are completely lined in an off-white heavy
linen. The lower half of the interior is lined in black linen. Note the two lower pockets
built into the rear skirt.
489
The tunic is profusely marked which

allows for chronological tracing of the
tunic through it's issues and history. The
numerous issue markings and dates all
deal with IR73. The earliest date on the
tunic is 1890. Throughout use the tunic
has been down-graded to the III
Garnituren (3rd quality level).
A Fsilier from Regt General

Feldmarschall Prinz Albrecht von Preuen
(Hannoversches) Nr. 73 proudly poses for
the camera. This is an almost identical
tunic. Note the cigar, indicating that the
fellow had good taste!
490
The Waffenrock with matching Krtzchen (cap) and Pickelhaube. The piping and band
on the Krtzchen are in the infantry facing color of red, while the fittings on the
Pickelhaube match the color of the buttons on the Waffenrock. To see the Pickelhaube
click Here. To see the Krtzchen click Here.
Sachsen (Saxon) Infantry Regiment 107
M1893 Mantel
M1894 Unteroffizier (Corporal) private purchase Mantel (Overcoat) from

Knigl Schs. 8. Inf.-Regt. Prinz Johann Georg Nr. 107 XIX AK. Leipzig.
The Mantel is a good quality light grey doe-skin wool with black lining.
491
492
The red collar patches indicate Infantry. Unique to Sachsen shoulder straps, the ends are
not pointed, but squared at the ends.
493
A close-up
of a red
collar patch.
The small
white lace
with
an
green center
line
symbolised
the rank of
Unteroffizie
r
or
Sergeant.
494
A close-up of a shoulder
strap for Knigl Schs. 8.
Inf.-Regt. Prinz Johann
Georg Nr. 107.
The back of this elegant overcoat.
495
496
Wrttemberg Grenadier-Regt. 119

Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Model
1871 Waffenrock
Model 1871 Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Waffenrock from Grenadier
Regt. Knigin Olga (1.Wrttembergisches) Nr. 119, Stuttgart, XIII ArmeeKorps. Prior to 1864, Wrttemberg troops wore a uniform similar to the
Preuen pattern Model 1849 Waffenrock. In 1864 Wrttemberg introduced
a unique pattern of double-breasted Waffenrock. On this tunic, the collars
and cuffs were of different colors for the different regiments. In 1871 an
updated version of the pattern was released, known as the Model 1871
Waffenrock. At the same time the Preuen pattern Pickelhaube replaced
the cloth Kepis that Wrttemberg troops had worn up to that time.
497
The Wrttemberg Model 1871 Waffenrock was made from doeskin wool with
six 25mm buttons down each side of the breast. The front of the Waffenrock
was not scalloped on the top and only piped on one side. The cuffs on this
example are Swedish pattern, a common feature to Wrttemberg Grenadier
498
Regiments 119 and 123. In 1892 the Model 1871 Wrttemberg pattern
Waffenrock was replaced by the standard Preuen pattern Waffenrock.
Surviving examples of this pattern are rare.
A view of the collar and shoulder straps. Unlike other German units, the gilt
or silver buttons on Wrttemberg Waffenrock do not always match the color
of the metal fittings on the Pickelhaube. With Grenadier-Regt. Knigin Olga,
the tunic buttons were gilt, but the helmet fittings were German-silver. The
collar (and cuff) Litzen were white to match the fittings on the Pickelhaube.
The cypher of Queen Olga on the shoulders straps are cut from fine felt and
separately sewn on.
499
The sleeves and the top interior of the tunic are completely lined in an offwhite heavy linen. The lower half of the interior is lined in black linen. The
shoulders are padded and sewn in a circular manner, typical for tunics from
the 1870s. Note that the rear skirt is one piece, and does not open for
ventilation on the back.
A close-up of the double Garde Litzen worn on the cuffs by this regiment.
Note that the buttons are gilt, while the helmet fittings for this regiment are
German-silver to match the color of the Garde Litzen. And yes, that is me
500
reflected in the button!
501
A close-up of
one of the the
shoulder
straps.
502
A Mannschaften (Other Ranks) soldier

wearing a Wrttemberg Model 1871
Waffenrock. The black collar and shoulder
strap cypher indicates that this man served
with Wrttemberg Field Artillery Regt Nr.
13. The photograph was taken in Ulm and
has been hand-colored.
The matching Waffenrock Schirmmtze and Pickelhaube to Grenadier Regt.

Knigin Olga (1.Wrttembergisches) Nr. 119, Stuttgart, XIII Armee-Korps.
Eigentumsstck Waffenrock
Preuen Garde-Schtzen-Batl.
Eigentumsstck (private purchase) Waffenrock
from Preuen Garde-Schtzen-Batl. (Berlin)
503
Garde-Korps. The Garde-Schtzen-Batl. was

distinctive, as it was one of only two units in the
German Confederation that carried French cuffs
(the other was Garde-Maschinengewehr-Abteilung
Nr.2.).
The Waffenrock is a dark-green doe-skin wool with
black collar and French cuffs piped in red.
As is typical for Schtzen, the Waffenrock has red
piping down the front pane, rear skirt and around
the collar and cuffs.
The Garde-Schtzen-Batl. was only a battalion in
size, which combined with the almost complete
devastation of Berlin in WWII, make any clothing
items from the Garde-Schtzen-Batl quite rare.
504
505
A view of the collar showing the large yellow Garde Litzen and plain-red
shoulder straps. The single gilt Preuen button worn on each side of the collar
designates the rank of Gefreiter (Cpl).
A close up of the large yellow Garde Litzen.
506
The back of the Waffenrock showing the piping arrangement on the rear
skirt.
507
A view of one of
the French cuffs
with three gilt
buttons and the
unique scalloped
yellow Garde
Litzen. The
lower horizontal
panel is black
like the collar,
but the scalloped
panel is dark
green (slightly
darer than the
Waffenrock body
color). Both are
piped in red
wool.
508
A period
photo of
a young
Preuen
Schtze
(Private)
in the
GardeSchtzen
-Batl.
509
A
commemorative
piece issued in
1914 for the
100th
anniversary of
the raising of
the Preuen
GardeSchtzen-Batl.
The badge is
stamped brass
and very similar
to the Jger
'Kaiser prize"
shooting award.
Note the
traditional
French motto of
the Jger and
Schtzen:
"VIVE LE ROI
ET SES
CHASSEURS"
(Long live the
King and his
Hunters).
Jger-Bataillon Nr.12 Waffenrock
510
Kgl. Schs. 1.
Jger-Bataillon
Nr.12 Freiburg i.S.
XII Armee - Korps
Mannschaften
Waffenrock. The
Waffenrock is a
dunkelgrun (dark
green) high-quality
doe-skin wool with
black cloth collar
and Saxon cuffs.
The tunic is piped in
red along the collar,
cuffs, and front
opening as well as
the rear skirts. The
shoulders carry
"Swallow's Nests"
which signify a
bandsman. The
shoulder straps are
unique to the
Sachsen (Saxon)
Jger being dark
green with red
piping and a Jger
horn.
511
A view of the collar and shoulder straps. The "Swallow's Nests" and Sachsen
Jger shoulder straps are clearly shown in this photograph. The Tresse on the
"Swallow's Nests" is silver sewn to a green wool backing. The insignia is held
onto the shoulder with corresponding "hook & eye" on the shoulder seam. The
cyphers on the privately-purchased shoulders straps are cut from fine felt and
separately sewn on with hand-embroidered details. Note the squared top
unique to Sachsen shoulder straps.
512
A close-up of the Jger Batl.

Nr.12 shoulder straps. The
button is for the 3rd
Kompanie (3rd Company).
513
The rear of the

Waffenrock.
514
A close-up of the twin

vertical button
Sachsen cuffs. The
buttons on this
Waffenrock are not
just ornamental.
515
A view of the straight

rear skirt pattern with
four buttons only worn
on Sachsen Waffenrock
516
A Jger from Kgl. Schs. 1.

Jger-Bataillon Nr.12 wearing a
Sachsen Tschako and an
identical Waffenrock.
Wrttemberg Landjgerkorps
Waffenrock
Model 1907 Wrttemberg Landjgerkorps Sergeant's Waffenrock (tunic),
XIII Armee-Korps. During mobilization, the Landjgerkorps were military
police similar to the Preuen Gendarmerie.
The Waffenrock is a dark dunkelgrnem (dark green) issue-quality doe-skin
wool with kornblumenblaues (corn flower blue) collar and Polish cuffs. The
Waffenrock piping is red and the yellow Garde Litzen is only carried on the
collar but not the cuffs which is correct for the Landjgerkorps. The rank of
Sergeant is indicated by the gilt NCO Tresse around the collar and cuffs,
combined with the 30mm Wrttemberg rank button in gilt. The shoulder
straps are the same dunkelgrnem cloth as the Waffenrock, piped in red with
a cypher. Prior to 1907, the shoulder straps would have carried a brigade
number which dates the Waffenrock between 1907 and 1917 when the
Landjgerkorps adopted the feldgrau tunics.
517
518
A view of the collar and shoulder straps. The burgundy-red color of the piping
is apparent in this photograph. The cyphers on the shoulders straps are cut
from fine felt and separately sewn on.
A close-up of the Garde pattern Litzen and Wrttemberg Sergeant's rank
button. Note the triple row of dark green, red, and blue piping on the collar
edge, unique to the Wrttemberg Landjgerkorps. Note also the blue center
piping on the yellow Garde Litzen.
519
A close-up of the Polish cuffs worn by the Wrttemberg Landjgerkorps.

There were only five units in the Imperial German Army that utilized Polish
cuffs on tunic with a vertical central opening making this an uncommon
combination.
520
A Wrttemberg Landjger wearing

the Model 1907 Waffenrock. The man
in the photo wears a Sergeant's
Waffenrock, but the officer's sword
knot identifies him as a VizeFeldwebel, the next senior rank. Note
that the only Kokarden worn on the
cap is the Wrttemberg Kokarde. No
Reich's Kokarde was worn by this unit
as it was specific to Wrttemberg.
Photo used with the kind permission
of Thomas Brackmann of
Imperial German Photographs.
521
A close-up of the
Landjgerkorps issued
shoulder straps.
The sleeves and the top interior of the Waffenrock are completely lined in an
off-white heavy padded linen. The lower half of the interior is lined in black
linen. The interior is stamped "LK" for Landjgerkorps
522
The rear of the Waffenrock.
523
524
An exceptionally rare grouping; the matching Landjgerkorps Pickelhaube,

Waffenrock, and Schirmmtze. To see the Pickelhaube click Here.
M1867 Eisenbahn-Regt. Waffenrock.
Preuen M1867 Eisenbahn (Railway) Regt. (Berlin) Garde-Korps
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Waffenrock. The Waffenrock is a high
quality dark blue doe-skin wool with black collar, black Swedish cuffs, and
silver buttons. This Waffenrock is an Eigetumsstck (private purchase)
tailored example with a black silk lining and displays all the features of an
1870's Waffenrock such as: lower body length, voluminous sleeves at the
elbows, and the fat piping typical for that period.
The Preuen Eisenbahn Regt was formed in 1875 as part of the
Verkehrstruppen (Transportation Troops) and were tasked with the
operation and repair of the rail lines for the Army.
525
526
A view of the collar white double Garde Litzen and the pre- 1890 shoulder
straps. Note the fat piping on the collar and front fly typical of the 1870s.
527
A close-up of the
shoulder strap cypher
of Eisenbahn-Regt. in
yellow cord worn
until 1890. It was not
until Eisenbahn Regt
2 was formed in 1890
that numbers
appeared on the
straps to differentiate
between the two
(later 4) regts. The
buttons are for the 1st
Compagnie which
match the name tag
on the Waffenrock
interior.
A close-up of the white double Garde Litzen on the black wool collar.
528
529
A Pionier
from the
Preuen
EisenbahnRegt.
proudly
poses for the
camera
wearing his
M1867
Waffenrock.
Note that in
this
photograph
he is
carrying the
earlier
M1860
Pickelhaube
with parade
plume.
530
A
close
-up
of
the
back
of
the
colla
r.
A close-up of the name tag sewn to the inside of the front fly named to
Pionier Hirschel. Note the early spelling of Compagnie with a "C' rather
than the later adopted spelling with a "K".
The back of the Waffenrock showing the rear skirt piping.
531
532
An exceptionally rare grouping; the matching Waffenrock, Pickelhaube, and

Schirmmtze for the Preuen Eisenbahn-Regt. To see the Pickelhaube click
Here. To see the Schirmmtze click Here.
Preuen 4th Garde Artillery
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Waffenrock
4. Garde- Feldartillerie-Regt. Potsdam, Garde - Korps Mannschaften
Waffenrock.
The Waffenrock is a dunkelblau (dark blue) high-quality doe-skin wool
with black cloth collar and Swedish cuffs. The tunic is piped in red along
the collar, cuffs, and front opening as well as the rear skirts. The collar and
cuff carry massive yellow cloth Garde Litzen. The shoulder straps are light
blue with a red artillery exploding bomb.
533
534
A view of the collar and shoulder straps. The massive yellow cloth Garde
Litzen on the collar are apparent in this photograph. The single rank button on
the collar identifies the rank as a Gefreiter (Corporal).
A close-up of the yellow Garde Litzen on the collar.
535
A close-up of the Swedish cuffs with yellow Garde Litzen.
536
537
A close-up of the
privately-purchased
shoulder straps. The
cyphers on the
privately-purchased
shoulders straps are cut
from fine felt and
separately sewn on
with hand-embroidered
details.
538
The soldier shown here is a

Private from the Garde Feld
Artillerie wearing this
Waffenrock. Note that he is
wearing the "extra" pattern of
Garde star on his Eigentumshelm.
Preuen Foot Artillery Regiment 8

Officer's berrock
539
Officer's private purchase berrock from

Rheinisches Fuartillerie Regt. 8 XVI
AK. Metz. The berrock is a high
quality dark blue doe-skin wool with
black silk lining and a black velvet
collar.
540
A view of the collar and shoulder boards, showing the high quality of this
coat. Note the exceptionally high black velvet collar.
Baden Train Battalion 14
NCO Waffenrock
NCO's issued purchase Waffenrock from Badische Train-Battalion. Nr. 14

XIV.Armee-Korps. The tunic is a dark Dunkelblau issued doe-skin wool
with padded white lining. Unfortunately the issue stamps have
faded/washed out. The buttons and NCO lace are gilt. For Train troops, the
collar, cuffs, piping along the front fly, collar top, rear vents and Swedish
cuffs are blue. The vented rear skirt (1895) and the large buttons (used
prior to 1895) identify this Waffenrock as being made shortly on or after
1895.
541
542
The gilt collar and cuff NCO lace combined with the gilt collar buttons indicate a rank
of Sergeant.
543
A close-up of
the Badische
Train-Battalion.
Nr. 14 issued
shoulder straps.
Note that from
1866 Baden
utilized
Preuen rank
buttons, as
Baden did not
have her own
Wappen rank
button.
The rear of the Waffenrock.
544
545
The matching Train Pickelhaube, Waffenrock, and Schirmmtze for Badische Train-Btl.
Nr. 14. To see the Pickelhaube click Here. To see the Schirmmtze click Here.
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Waffenrock for Kgl. Bayer. 1. Chevaulegers-Regt. Kaiser
Nikolaus von Ruland
546
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Eigentumsstck
(private purchase)
Waffenrock in Kgl.
Bayer. 1. ChevaulegersRegt. Kaiser Nikolaus
von Ruland (Czar
Nikolaus from Russia)
(Nrnberg) III
Bayerisches Armee
Korps. Although similar
to a Ulan Ulanka in cut,
the Chevaulegers tunic
was known as a
Waffenrock and was
Stahlgrun (steel-green)
in color. Like Bayern
Ulan Ulanka,
Chevaulegers
Waffenrock were not
piped on the left side of
the double-breast. This
example is in the typical
thick, ribbed wool
material similar to twill.
The collar, cuffs,
shoulder straps, and
piping are in the
regimental facing color
of burgundy with gilt
buttons.
547
The shoulder straps of Mannschaften Chevaulegers Waffenrock were cloth and pointed,
similar to foot troops and blank; no numbers or cyphers were used by any of the eight
Regiments. Officers wore shoulder boards or epaulettes. Note the shoulder strap button
of "5" designating 5th Squadron.
548
The back of the

Chevaulegers
Waffenrock, showing the
unique piping
arrangement. Note that
unlike Foot-Troops, the
lower edge of the
Chevaulegers
Waffenrock is also piped.
A view of the Chevaulegers Swedish cuffs, identical for all ranks. Buttons
were in gilt or silver and matched the color of the metal fittings on the
Bayern cavalry pattern leather Pickelhaube.
549
The upper cloth

label is a purchased
identification label
that identifys the
owner as
Chevauleger Eger of
the 5th Squadron of
Chev Regt Nr. 1.
The 1911 dated
Nrnberg tailor's
label is sewn to the
inside the breast
pocket and is
identified again to
Eger.
550
The Waffenrock with matching Tellermtze and Pickelhaube. The piping and band on
the Mtze are in the regimental facing color, while the fittings on the Pickelhaube match
the color of the buttons on the Waffenrock.
A young Chevauleger poses with his mother.

Often confused with Bayern Ulan Ulanka in
photographs, the shoulder straps and Swedish
cuffs are the most obvious ways to distinguish
this man as a Chevauleger.
Preuen Garde Krassier Regt

NCO Koller
551
A rare issue Koller for a Sergeant of the Garde Krassier Regt GardeKorps Berlin. The tunic is made of yellow-white (cream) kirsey, with
Cornflower blue collar and cuff facings. The wool shoulder straps are blue
piped and blank as is correct for the GKR. There are only twelve buttons
on the tunic. Two on each cuff, Two on the shoulder straps and six on the
rear skirts. The two top rear buttons also serve as belt ramps.
552
553
There are single Garde Litzen on the collar and two on each cuff. The
Krassier Garde border (Kollerborte) is white fabric with two blue borders,
and goes the entire length of the front, collar and cuffs. As the owner was a
Sergeant, there is bright silver Garde pattern NCO tress sewn directly over the
white portion of the Krassier Kollerborte on the collar and cuffs. Two
silvered Prussian NCO buttons on the collar indicate the rank of Sergeant. The
button on the shoulder strap is for the 3rd Eskadron (3rd Squadron which
matches the markings on the matching Metalhelme).
The back of the Koller.
554
555
The front is closed with sixteen

alternating hook and eyes the
entire length of the front, plus
two on the collar.
The tunic is partially lined with a

speckled linen called calico, and is
clearly marked BAG (Clothing
Depot of the Garde) 1912 and GKR.
The original paper makers label
with the cut sizes is still intact.
556
The matching Koller, Model 1894 Preuen Garde Krassier Parade

Mannschaften Metalhelme for Garde Krassier Regt., Berlin Garde - Korps.
To see the Metalhelme to paradeHere.
Hussar Regt 10 Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Attila
NCO's private purchase Attila from Magdebugisches Hussaren-Regiment

Nr.10 IV.Armee-Korps.
The Attila is a high quality dark green doe-skin wool with bright yellow
cord frogging (braiding), gilt toggle buttons and rosettes. The lining is
black silk .
The gilt collar buttons indicate a rank of Gefreiter, and on the right sleeve
is a single Fechtabzeichen (lance award).
557
558
A view of the collar and shoulder boards.
559
A close-up of a
shoulder strap. The
button is for the 5th
Kompanie (5th
Company).
The back of the Attila, showing the cord frogging on the rear skirt. This
pattern is unique to Hussar tunics.
560
A close-up of the back of the collar showing the cord frogging

.
Hussaren Regt 15 Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Attila
561
Hannover Husaren Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Attila from for HusarenRegt. Knigin Wilhelmena der Niederlande (Hannoversches) Nr.15
(Wandsbek) VIII Armee Korps. The Attila is a high quality dark blue doeskin wool with white cord frogging (braiding), silver toggle buttons and
rosettes. This Attila is an Eigetumsstck (private purchase) tailored
example with a black silk lining.
562
563
A view of the collar and shoulder straps.

The back of the Attila, showing the cord frogging on the rear skirt unique
to Husaren Attila.
564
A close-up of the shoulder strap cypher of Knigin Wilhelmena der

Niederlande (Queen Wilhelmena of the Netherlands) in silver worn by all
ranks of Husaren Regt Nr. 15.
565
566
A close-up of the cavalry

pattern crossed-lances
flaggenwinker-abzeichen
(signaler's badge) worn
on the right sleeve of the
Attila.
The matching Pelzmtze, Attila, and Schirmmtze for Husaren Regt Nr. 15.
To see the Pelzmtze click Here. To see the Schirmmtze click Here.
Hannoversches Ulanen-Regt. Nr.14 Ulanka
567
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Eigentumsstck (private purchase) Ulanka

from 2. Hannoversches Ulanen-Regt. Nr.14 (Avold, Mrchingen) XVI
Armee Korps.
The Ulanka is a dark blue doe-skin wool with Polish cuffs. The facing
colour for UR Nr. 14 was carmine and is reflected in the collar, cuffs,
epaulettes, and piping around the plastron front panel, bottom hem, and
rear shoulder seams.
Buttons were silver to match the fittings on the Tschapka.
568
569
A view of the collar and Mannschaften (Other-Ranks) epaulettes. The single

silver Preuen rank button on each side of the collar identifies the owner's
rank as a Gefreiter (Senior Private).
The back of the Ulanka showing the unique piping arrangement.
Note that the shoulder seams, rear sleeve seams, and lower edge of the
570
Ulanka are piped in carmine.

A view of one of the superb Ulanen Regt Nr. 14 Other-Ranks epaulettes
with bright carmine backing. The button carries a number "3" for 3rd
571
Squadron.
Note the gilt scaling and cresent do not match the button colour. This mix
of brass and silver was a unique feature of Ulanen Ulanka.
A close-up of the Fechterabzeichen (lance proficiency indicator chevron)

worn on the right sleeve.
Note the black center stripe for Preuen Regiments. One chevron
designates 1st level of lance proficiency
572
The matching Ulanka and Tschapka for 2. Hannoversches Ulanen-Regt.

Nr.14. The collar, cuffs, and piping on the Ulanka are in the regimental facing
color of carmine, while the fittings on the Tschapka match the color of the
buttons on the Ulanka. To see the Tschapka click Here.
573
Preuen Dragoon Regiment 8

Officer's berrock
Officer's private purchase

berrock from Dragoner
Regt. Knig Friedrich III
(2.Schlesisches) Nr. 8 VI
Armee - Korps
Kreuzburg/Berstadt/Namslau
for a Hauptmann (Captain).
The berrock is a superb
quality light cornflower blue
doe-skin wool with black silk
lining and yellow collar and
cuff piping.
The berrock was the normal
daily uniform for German
Officers, not the Waffenrock
as is widely believed. A
multi-purpose garment, it
could be worn in almost any
form of dress.
574
A view of the collar and shoulder boards, showing the very high quality of
this coat. Note the exceptionally high collar.
575
A close-up of a shoulder
board for Dragoner Regt.
Knig Friedrich III
(2.Schlesisches) Nr. 8. The
two gilt pips on the
shoulder boards designates
the rank of Hauptmann
(Captain).
576
The back of this

elegant overcoat.
Note that unlike
the Waffenrock,
on the berrock
there are only
four buttons on
the rear vents
which are
straight, not
scalloped.
577
A view of
the barrel
cuffs
found on
berrock.
A close
578
Sachsen Ulanen Regt. Nr. 17 Ulanka

A rare example of a NCO's Eigentumsstck (private purchase) Ulanka with
shoulder straps from Kgl. Schs.1. Ulanen-Regt. Kaiser Franz Josef von
sterreich, Knig von Ungarn Nr.17.
579
Like Preuen Ulanen, the Sachsen Ulanen were lancers and were
responsible primarily for patrolling and reconnaissance.
The Ulanka is a medium blue doe-skin wool which was a color used
specifically by Sachsen Ulanen. The collar and Polish cuffs are burgundy
and carry white Garde Litzen.
580
The Sachsen Ulanen had a peculiar habit after 1910 of wearing numbered
straps on the Dunkelblau Ulanka in lieu of epaulettes for the three Sachsen
Ulanen Regts. Photographs of this pattern are quite rare, but those that do
581
appear show that only numbers were worn, never the regimental cypher,
and the straps were sewn into the shoulder seams and were not removable
.
To the left is a scarce period photo of this unusual Ulanka pattern worn by
an Einjhrig-Freiwilliger (One year volunteer) in Ulanen Regt Nr. 21.
Instead of scaled brass epaulettes with a cypher, he wears cloth straps of
the same blue material as the Ulanka, piped in white with a white #21.
582
A view of the collar and the unique cloth shoulder straps. Ulanen Regt Nr. 17
wore a metal cypher on their scaled brass epaulettes, but as is typical for this
pattern of Ulanka, only a strap of the same blue material, piped in white with a
white #17 is worn. The single Sachsen rank button combined with the NCO
lace identifies the rank as a Sergeant.
A close-up of the collar with the copper Sachsen Sergeant's rank button.
The Garde Litzen consists of two long bars with burgundy Spiegel (the
colored sections line between the bars on the Garde Litzen). Usually, there
are two separate white Litzen sewn to the collar and the collar color shows
between the two.
583
On this Ulanka, however, the two Litzen bars are actually one large piece and
the burgundy section separating the two bars are woven into the patch as are
the two Spiegel in the center of each bar. This large patch with both Litzen
was then sewn to the collar. The upper Garde Litzen bar in this example, is
hidden by the NCO lace.
The back of the Ulanka showing the unique piping arrangement. Note that
the shoulder seams, rear sleeve seams, and lower edge of the Ulanka are
piped in white.
584
A view of one of the unique cloth shoulder straps. Unlike epaulettes which
were removable, the shoulder straps on this unusual pattern of Ulanka were
made of the identical material as the Ulanka, piped in white with a white
585
#17 and sewn into the shoulder seam.

Can you see me in the button reflection?
A close-up of the Fechterabzeichen (lance proficiency indicator chevron)

worn on the right sleeve with green center stripes for Sachsen. Two
586
chevrons designate 2nd level of lance proficiency.
The matching Ulanka and Tschapka for Sachsen Ulanen Regt. Nr. 17 . The
587
gilt fittings on the Tschapka match the color of the buttons on the Ulanka. To
see the Tschapka click Here.
Preuen Model 1895 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Cavalry Belt and Buckle
The Model 1895 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Cavalry belt was made of tan leather with
the rough-side out. The buckle was cast brass with a rear hook to accommodate the clip
of the standard issue Model 1895 belt.
Preuen Model 1895 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Cavalry Belt and Buckle
588
The Model 1895 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Cavalry belt was made of tan leather with
the rough-side out. The buckle was cast brass with a rear hook to accommodate the clip
of the standard issue Model 1895 belt.
Preuen Model 1895 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Telegraph Belt and Buckle
589
The Model 1895 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Telegraph belt was made of tan leather with
the rough-side out. The buckle was stamped brass with a center white metal Wappen
stamped with the Preuen crown and "Gott Mit Uns" (God with us). The two hooks on
either side are designed to hook into corresponding clips on the telegrapher's wire reel.
*NOTE* Photographic evidence indicates that not every individual in a Telegraph
Battalion wore this buckle as is commonly thought. Similarly, photographs show
soldiers of regular line units wearing this buckle. It appears that any soldier who was in
a Telegraph section as a line layer, in any unit (infantry, Artillery, etc), wore the buckle.
Wrttemberg Model 1895 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Belt and Buckle
The Model 1895 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) belt was made of tan leather with the
rough-side out. The buckle was stamped brass with a center white metal Wrttemberg
Wappen (crest) and "FURCHTLOS UND TREW"
(Fearless and Loyal/Trustworthy/Faithful/) in old German.
Bayern Officer's Brocade Belt
590
The Bayern Officer's Brocade belt is manufactured from woven silver bullion, with two
light blue interwoven stripes signifying the state. The buckle is highly detailed stamped
gilded brass with the crown of Bavaria. The belt is backed in a white cloth.
Preuen Officer's Brocade Belt
The Preuen Officer's Brocade belt is manufactured from woven silver bullion, with
two black interwoven stripes signifying the state. The buckle is highly detailed stamped
591
gilded brass with the "WII" cypher of Kaiser Wilhelm II. The belt is backed in a light
blue cloth.
Wrttemberg Officer's Brocade Belt
The Wrttemberg Officer's Brocade belt is manufactured from woven silver bullion,
with two red and black interwoven stripes signifying the state. The buckle is highly
detailed stamped gilded brass with the cypher of Wrttemberg. The belt is backed in a
dark blue wool.
3rd Garde Ulan Saddle
592
The Standard German cavalry saddle

was used well into W.W. II. It's main
advantage was the knee braces on the
side flaps, which allowed a rider to
stand up in the saddle and support
himself. Normally, saddles are found
with a large stamp under the side flap
which designates the year and unit.
The saddle was secured to the horse
by means of a leather or cloth girth
strap which encircled the belly to hold
it snugly in place.
For the soldiers personal belongings, two leather wallets were slung on either side of the
saddle, and were used to hold spare undergarments, rations, shaving kit, etc. For
sleeping, a greatcoat, groundsheet and two blankets were rolled and strapped to the rear
of the saddle.
A close-up of the
crisp "3GUR"
(Third Garde
Ulan) stamp
under the seat
flap. The "94 3E"
stands for 1894
3rd Squadron
Bayerische (Bavarian) Model 1837

Water Bottle
593
Bayerische (Bavarian) Model 1837 water bottle complete with leather

carrying strap and tin cup. Prior to 1837, water bottles issued by the
Kingdom of Bayern (Bavaria) were made from sheet metal and were
difficult to keep clean and free of rust. In 1837 a glass water bottle was
introduced which alleviated these problems.
To prevent breakage, the bottle was encased in wicker with a leather
covering. The tin cup was held in place on the bottom of the bottle with the
leather strap. Few examples of the Bayerische Model 1837 water bottle
have survived.
594
The bottom of the cup

shows the effects of age
and shows signs of
corrosion on the bottom.
The mouth of the bottle is mounted with a zinc edge to prevent chipping of
the glass.
595
Old friends together again; a Model 1868 Bayerische (Bavarian) Jger

Battalion Raupenhelm and a Bayerische Model 1837 water bottle. To see the
Raupenhelm click Here.
Model 1867 Preuen Water Bottle
596
Model 1867
Preuen Water
Bottle. The
water bottle was
made from
glass with a
leather cover
sewn over the
bottle. This is
the primary
water bottle
carried by all
most troops of
the German
confederation
during the
Franco-Preuen
war of 1870-71.
Considering
that these were
carried in battle
and made from
glass, few
examples have
survived,
especially with
full cork
stopper and
carrying strap.
597
A view of the
original full
cork stopper.
The leather
has shrunk
over the last
140 years,
resulting in
the sewnseam
separating
along the side
and bottom.
598
The leather carrying

strap on this example
is intact. Note that
one end of the strap
after it passes through
the adjustment
buckle, is attached to
the cork stopper.
599
From the battlefields of the Franco-Preuen war in France, two old friends back
together again. A Model 1867 Preuen Garde Grenadier Mannschaften Pickelhaube and
a Model 1867 Preuen water bottle.
Model 1879 Reich's Revolver
The Model 1879 Reich's Revolver was only used from 1879 to 1883. It was the first
attempt at a standardized revolver for the German states. Ungainly and awkward, the
revolver was considered a failure and replaced in 1883. Note the brown finish, typical
for the period. Model 1889 Reich's Revolvers remained in service in 2nd line units well
600
into W.W.1. The holster is marked with a faint "BA" stamp and the date "1900".
A close-up of the maker's mark "S & S V.C.S. C.G.H. SUHL". On the back of the frame
grip, the revolver is unit marked "JM XVI 1 16." (Infantry Machine Gun Battalion 16,
1st company, gun 16).
Model 1896 Mauser Broom-Handle
The Model C-1896 Mauser is a distinctive and impressive looking weapon. One of the
most noticeable features of the C-96 is the hollow wooden shoulder stock that doubled
as a holster. From the initial prototype in 1895, C-96 Mauser production ended around
1937 which brought an end to one of the most recognizable pistols ever made. Although
over 100 years have passed since its inception, the C-96 Broomhandle Mauser remains
one of the most sought after firearms in the world by collectors.
This example is commonly known as a "Standard Prewar Commercial"

which has a 5.5 inch barrel in 7.63 mm caliber with a 6 digit serial number
on the diagonal flat. It carries a small ring hammer with a hole through the
safety knob and a stepped frame with lanyard ring pivot on the bottom of
601
the walnut grips.
A view of the 50-1000 meter tangent sights carried on this model. Note that
the sights go from 800 to 100 with no marking for 900 meters.
602
This example
comes with a
matched wooden
holster with an
identical serial
number to the
pistol.
The top of the

receiver is marked
"WAFFENFABRI
K MAUSER
OBERNDORF
A/N".
A view of the
WAFFENFABRIK
MAUSER
OBERNDORF A.
NECKAR marking
on the side.
For further information on C-96 Mausers beyond this very brief description, I highly
recommend the web site C-96 Mauser which specializes in this unique and beautiful
pistol.
603
Imperial German Feldgrau Helmets 1914

to 1918
Model 1915 Baden Infantry
Model 1915 Baden Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Pickelhaube.
This helmet is in unissued condition and appears to have never been worn
or issued.
604
605
A view of the Model 1915 Wappen (front plate) for Baden.

A rear view showing the 1895 pattern sliding air vent on the rear spine.
606
607
A view of the side profile showing the standard issue Kokarde for Baden
stamped from brass with a painted ring.
made from a much thinner leather than older helmets. The leather liners on
surviving examples can be paper thin and fragile. The liner on this example
is in mint condition and unissued. The original leather string remains intact
with the knot as supplied by the Quartermaster.
608
Model 1915 Preuen Infantry

Model 1915 Preuen Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) helmet.
Except for the removable spike top, the helmet is identical to a Model 1895
helmet, with steel fittings instead of brass or Neusilber (nickel-silver).
609
610
A view of the Preuen Infantry Model 1915 Wappen (front plate).

A rear view showing the 1895 pattern sliding air vent on the rear spine.
611
612
A view of the side profile.

The helmet has a faint Army Group marked "BIA VII" on the rear visor
which stands for: Bekleidungs Instandsetzungsamt (Clothing Repair
Depot) VII Armee-Korps.
613
The liner of this M1915 example remains in very good
Model 1915 Preuen Officer's

Pickelhaube
In 1915 a new
Pickelhaube for
Mannschaften (other
Ranks) was
introduced with a
614
removable spike and

a leather M91 leather
chinstrap to replace
the metal chinscales
still being worn by
some units such as
cavalry and artillery.
To prevent officer's
from being easily
spotted with their
fixed spike tops and
reflective chinscales,
a new model of
Pickelhaube
specifically for
officers was
introduced in 1915
which also had a
removable spike and
metal chinscales. The
quality of the helmet
construction or finish
was not affected as
shown by this nearmint example of a
Preuen Infantry
officer's M15
Pickelhaube.
615
616
A view of the Preuen Line officer's eagle Wappen (front plate). This Wappen
retains all the original mercury-gilding. The metal fittings on privately
purchased Pickelhaube were initially mercury-gilded which results in a frosted
appearance with little reflective surfaces. The spike, chinscales, and other
fittings were then polished to a obtain a highly reflective appearance. As is
typical for a high-quality Wappen, low areas on alternating feathers as well as
some high areas such as the "FR" have been polished to add contrast to the
gilding. To conserve brass, the Wappen stamping is paper-thin. It is so thin,
that some areas like the right knee of the eagle show through.
From the rear, the helmet appears to be a standard officer's example, it is
only the three rivets on the chinscale that indictae this is actually a Model
1915.
617
618
The side profile, showing that this rather scarce pattern of M1915 officer's
Pickelhaube is in remarkable condition.
Although it is common to find wartime officer helmets with a shell made from
fiber, the skull of this example is made from leather.
This photograph shows the Pickelhaube disassembled into the main

components.
The spike and chinscales are removed as are the special officer's Kokarden
which are designed to fit around the M1891 chinstrap post.
619
A close-up of the removable spike. Note that virtually all the polished
gilding remains intact. The spike is secured to the spike base with a slotted
bayonet fitting similar to the Mannschaften M1915 spike top.
The bayonet fitting is oxidized grey, as this part protruded through the top
of the berzug (helmet cover) when the spike was not worn.
A close-up of the removable chinscales. Like the other fittings, all the
polished gilding remains intact.
On previous officer Pickelhaubes, the chinscales were held onto the shell
with split-brad rosettes. On the M1915 officer Pickelhaube, the rosettes are
faux (false) and pressed into the first scale, as behind the faux rosette is a
M1891 chinstrap mount. To keep the chinscales on the leather backing
there are three rivets, a feature not found on previous officer models. In
620
period photographs, these three rivets are the only way to visually identify
an officer's Pickelhaube as being an M1915.
When the chinscales are removed, a standard Model 1891 chinstrap post is
revealed. In the field, the chinscales were removed and a standard M1891
leather chinstrap was worn.
This photo shows why the rosettes are pressed into the first scale, as where
the rosette would normally be, there is a hole to accomodate the M1891
chinstrap mount.
The helmet liner is the officer pattern with a high quality calf-skin
sweatband coupled by a silk skull cap
621
622
The liner shows some very slight wear, indicating that this example was
worn.
The removable spike and chinscales necessitated a new model of berzug

for officers which had a removable cloth spike top for when the spike was
not worn. When the chinscales were removed, the M91 leather chinstrap
was mounted and inserted through circular sewn slits on the side of the
berzug.
623
As this photo shows, the protruding bayonet fitting is oxidized grey as this
part protruded through the top of the berzug when the spike was not
worn.
624
625
A rare grouping; the matching Model 1915 Preuen officer's Model 1915
Pickelhaube and berzug, Model 1915 Overcoat, and Model 1915
Schirmmtze.
Ersatz Bayern Infantry Tin
Ersatz Bayern Model 1915 Infantry Eisenblech (tin) Pickelhaube.
This pattern of Eisenblech Ersatz-Helme closely resembles the M1915
Pickelhaube.
626
This pattern of Eisenblech Ersatz-Helme is similar to the helmets contracted

in 1914 by Bing A.G. and closely resembles the pre-war Pickelhaube. Unlike
the Preuen version, the Bing helmet is pressed from one piece of metal. The
Wappen (front plate), spike, base, side M91 posts, front visor, and studs on the
front visor are identical to those used on the leather Pickelhaube. The liner is
similar to a standard leather Pickelhaube, but attached to the shell with split
brads with an additional felt strip for comfort between the liner and the helmet
shell. There is no rear spine on this pattern of helmet. The Wappen (front
plate) and removable spike are identical to the Model 1915 spiked helmets.
This example refutes the theory that the Bayern Eisenblech (tin) Pickelhaube
were only produced with gilt fittings.
627
A view of the Model 1915 Bayern Infantry Wappen (front plate).

A rear view of the Ersatz Bayern tin Pickelhaube. Note that there is no rear
spine fitted to the shell.
628
629
A view of the side profile showing the standard issue Kokarde for Bayern is
painted silver with a painted blue ring.
A view of the Ersatz Bayern tin liner. The liner is similar to a standard
leather Pickelhaube, but attached to the shell with split brads with an
additional felt strip for comfort between the liner and the
630
Ersatz Model 1895 Bayern

Felt Infantry
Ersatz Model 1895 Bayern (Bavaria) Filzhelme (felt helmet). Ersatz felt
Pickelhaube were initially manufactured in 1914 with identical fittings in
silver or brass as the M1895 Pickelhaube, with front visor trim, rear spine,
etc.
631
This example was manufactured as a Model 1895 with full brass fittings.
632
A view of the Model 1895 Bayern Infantry Mannschaften Wappen (front

plate).
633
634

The liner is similar to a standard leather Pickelhaube.
635
Ersatz Preuen Infantry Tin

Pickelhaube
636
Ersatz Preuen Infantry Eisenblech (tin plate) Pickelhaube. The Eisenblech

Ersatz-Helme most closely resemble the M1895 Pickelhaube as they
consist of a front and rear visor secured to a helmet shell by spilt brads and
lacquered black. The metal for the shell is quite thin and would offer little
more protection than the leather Pickelhaube it was destined to augment.
At first glance, it appears that regular M1895 fittings are mated to a tin
shell, but Eisenblech Pickelhaube have several very unique features. The
brads for holding on the spike base are artificial and are actually pressed
into the spike base, while the spike itself is pressed onto the helmet skull.
The rear spine stops short of the spike base, and is void of the M1895
sliding vent. As well, these helmets have an interesting "barrel" method for
attaching the plate onto the helmet.
These helmets are often referred to now by collectors as 'kit helmets", as they
were shipped to the front Bekleidungsamt (Clothing Depots) to be assembled
by hand. The helmet body and visors are made from thin Eisenblech (tin plate)
and painted in black enamel. The factory supplied holes in the shell for the
other fittings, such as spike, Wappen, rear spine, and the M91 posts for the
chinstrap. The design was actually ingenious; the shell had a ridge around the
base of the circumference into which the liner and rear visors were snapped
into place, and secured with brads.
637
A view of the front Wappen on the helmet.

A view of the
unique method
for attaching
the front plate
onto the
helmet. Note
that there has
never been
Model 1895
loops soldered
on the plate,
indicating that
the plate was
manufactured
for the Ersatz
tin
Pickelhaube.
638
A side profile of this example.

The rear profile of this example showing how the rear spine stops short of
the spike base, and is void of the M1895 sliding vent.
639
A view of the unique artificial brads on the top of the spike base. They are
pressed into the spike base and the spike itself is pressed onto the helmet
skull. This results in a gap between the helmet body and the spike base.
The liner is similar to a standard leather Pickelhaube, but attached by
rolling it under the metal edge.
640
641
The helmet is marked "R.v.d.H. Berl Sch" on the front visor.

Ersatz Preuen Infantry Steel
642
Ersatz Preuen Infantry Stahlblech (steel) issued Pickelhaube.
The Stahlblech Ersatz-Helme differs from the Eisenblech (tin plate) Pickelhaube as the
helmet is pressed from one sheet of steel. Front and rear visors are part of the pressing
and are not separate pieces. As these helmets were structurally quite strong, there was
643
no need for the reinforcing front visor trim or rear spine. In lieu of the front visor trim,
this example has the typical beaded edge on the front visor. The helmet has been painted
an olive-green and the brass fittings appear to have been chemically darkened. The liner
is similar to a standard leather Pickelhaube, but attached to the shell with split brads.
A view of the chemically darkened Preuen line Infantry Wappen (front plate). The
previous collector who owned it had tried (without success thankfully) to "clean" the
brass eagle but only managed to lighten it slightly after much effort.
A rear view of this

Ersatz Pickelhaube.
Note that there is no
rear spine fitted to the
shell.
644
The liner is similar to a standard leather Pickelhaube, but attached to the

shell with split brads.
645
646
These Ersatz Stahlblech (steel) issued Pickelhaube often show circular

patterns which resemble machining marks made by being turned on a lathe.
However, this is most likely machining marks on the dies which were used
to press the shells from a flat piece of steel.
647
This example has shrapnel damage to the spike. The bottom of the spike
has been penetrated, while the upper spike has been struck. Amazingly, the
shrapnel is still in place, imbedded into the brass.
648
649
Two Reservists wearing Ersatz

steel Pickelhaube. The tunics they
are wearing are very unusual,
being six buttons, void of any
shoulder straps, and appear to be
dark blue/black (?) in color. This
pattern of tunic is quite often seen
in Flieger unit ground crew
photos.
Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen Felt Infantry
650
Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen Filzhelme (felt helmet) for Reserve or

Landwehr.
Ersatz helmets were constructed from Ersatz (substitute) materials, such as
rabbit felt and afforded no practical protection.
The helmet was manufactured as a Model 1895 with brass fittings, but
without front visor trim or rear spine making the helmet quite fragile.
651
A view of the M1895 Wappen (front plate) for Reserve and Landwehr Regiments. Note
that the Fatherland Bandeau is absent on Reserve and Landwehr helmet Wappen,
replaced by a silver Reserve cross.
652
The liner is similar to a standard leather Pickelhaube but sewn to the insdie
of the shell.
653
This Filzhelme has several tiny holes over the top which pierce the felt and
liner. I used brass rods to indicate the trajectory of the objects that pierced
the felt. Note that by lining up the rods with the holes in the shell and liner,
they seem to come from the same area above the helmet, indicating small
bits of Shrapnel.
Page 11 of Ludwig Baer's "The History of the German Steel Helmet"
quotes an Army report that the great majority of brain injuries were caused
by "remarkably small fragments" .
654
The interior view shows where the largest object pierced straight down
through shell and liner. Looking down on the helmet shell, a viewer can
see the hole punched neatly through shell and liner in a very straight line.
655
Principio del formulario

Final del formulario
Ersatz Model 1915 Preuen Garde Filzhelme
Ersatz Model 1915 Preuen felt Garde Mannschaften (Other Ranks)

Filzhelme (felt helmet).
The helmet was manufactured as a Model 1915 with all Feldgrau steel
fittings including front visor trim and rear spine.
656
657
A view of the Model 1915 Preuen Garde Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Wappen (front
plate) in grey steel..
The liner is manufactured similar to a standard leather Pickelhaube,

however it is sewn into the shell.
658
659
A view of the side profile. This Pickelhaube has an interesting and attractive
symmetrical profile.
Note how well it has retained its shape due to the thick felt.
Ersatz Model 1915 Preuen X Armee-Korps Felt Infantry
Ersatz Model 1915 Preuen X Armee-Korps felt Infantry Mannschaften

(Other Ranks) Pickelhaube. The helmet was manufactured as a Model
1915 with all Feldgrau steel fittings.
Although the vast majority of Ersatz felt helmets are unmarked, this
example has faint Army Korps "BA X" markings which are visible on the
top of the skull interior and also on the rear visor
.
660
661
A view of the Model 1915 Preuen Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Wappen
(front plate).
A view of the faint Army Korps "BA X" markings which are visible on the
top of the skull interior.
662
A view of the side profile. This Pickelhaube has an attractive profile and retained its
shape well.
The liner on this example is manufactured from a thick leather similar to a

pre-war helmet.
663
664
A young Infantyman wearing an

Ersatz felt Pickelhaube.
Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen Rolled-Edge Filzhelm
Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen Rolled-Edge Filzhelm (felt helmet). This

example was manufactured as a Model 1895 with brass fittings, but
without front visor trim or rear spine.
To reinforce the body and add strength, the manufacturer rolled and sewed
the entire circumference of the bottom edge which helps the Pickelhaube
retain it's shape.
665
666
A view of the Preuen Eagle Wappen (front plate).
A rear view showing that this pattern of Filzhelm was made without a rear
spine.
667
668
The side profile, showing that this rather scarce pattern of Ersatz Filzhelm is in very
nice condition. Note that as is typical for an Ersatz Filzhelm, the liner is sewn
completely around the circumference and the stitching is visible on the exterior. As
well, the rolled and sewn bottom edge stitching is also visible completely around the
circumference of the exterior.
The liner is the standard Ersatz Filzhelm pattern, being of relatively thin
leather, sewn to the inside of the shell.
The liner is stamped with the manufacture's mark of "J. Bambus & Co."
This marking is usually (but not always) found impressed onto the liner on
this pattern of Ersatz Rolled-Edge Filzhelme.
669
Construction details on all rolled-edge Filzhelm I have encountered are

identical; which seems to indicate that the rolled & sewn edge Ersatz Filz
Pickelhaubes were made only by J. Bambus & Co.
670
A nice photo of a Preuen soldier wearing an Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen

Filz Pickelhaube.
671
Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen Cloth-Covered

Filzhelme (felt helmet)
Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen cloth-covered Filzhelme (felt helmet). These

helmets are often incorrectly identified as cork helmets but there are
distinct differences beyond the basic material of cork or felt. Cork helmets
are cloth-covered inside and out with no trim around the visors, while this
pattern of cloth-covered Filzhelme is covered in khaki cloth on the exterior
and visor undersides, but the interior of the skull is exposed felt.
It appears that this pattern of Ersatz Pickelhaube was made by only one
manufacturer, as surviving examples in museums or private collections are
identical in every aspect. This manufacturer used an Ersatz Leather trim
(cloth that has been coated on one side) sewn completely around the
circumference of the visors.
672
673
A view of the standard Preuen Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) M1895 pattern
Wappen (front plate). This Wappen and other fittings have not been chemically
darkened, they are just tarnished from age.
The Pickelhaube was manufactured as a Model 1895 with brass fittings,

but without front visor trim or rear spine. The felt, however, is very thick
and stiff, making it quite sturdy.
674
675
The side profile, showing that this rather scarce pattern of Ersatz cloth-covered
Filzhelme is in remarkable condition.
A close-up of the green Ersatz Leather trim which shows how it is sewn
around the circumference. The liner stitching is also visible. Note the
leather reinforcements (cracked with age) sewn under the M91 chins strap
posts.
The liner is manufactured similar to a standard leather Pickelhaube, but
sewn directly onto the felt shell from the inside in the same manner as a
standard Filz Pickelhaube.
In the interior the felt of the body can be seen under the leather liner.
Like the exterior, the undersides of the visors are covered in cloth with the
rear visor having a stamped "JR137" for 2. Unter-Elsssisches InfanterieRegt. Nr.137 garrisoned in Hagenau as part of the XXI Armee Korps.
I.R. 137 served in the West and Russian Fronts; it did not serve in warm
climates such as Salonika or Serbia etc. Note that the Ersatz Leather trim
676
has worn away in some areas around the edges of the visors revealing the
cloth underside of the trim.
677
Ersatz Model 1899 Preuen Filz

Telegraphen Tschako
Ersatz Model 1899 Preuen Filz Tschako (Shako) marked to TelegraphenBataillon Nr.2.
The Tschako has the identical parts as the leather Model 1899, with
German silver Wappen, M91 pattern posts & chinstrap, blackened air vents
on the sides and a standard Preuen cloth Feldzeichen.
As with all original Filz Tschako, there is no trim on the front or rear
visors.
678
679
A view of the Preuen German silver (nickel) Telegraphen Tschako Eagle

Wappen (front plate). It measures only 95mm compared to the larger Line
Eagle Wappen at 113mm.
A rear view showing the single air vent locating on each side.
680
681
The side profile, showing that this rather scarce Ersatz Tschako is in
remarkable condition. Filz Tschako are considerably more fragile than the
leather version it supplemented, and very few original examples have
survived.
As is typical, the liner is sewn completely around the circumference and the
stitching is visible on the exterior.
The liner is manufactured similar to a standard leather Pickelhaube, but
sewn directly onto the felt shell from the inside in the same manner as a
standard Filz Pickelhaube
682
.
This example has a very unusual Ersatz leather-cloth liner, as it is cut
identical to a pre-war Tschako but made from Ersatz paper-cloth which
683
was often used as sweatbands in Schirmmtzen (visor caps). In some areas

the covering has worn away and the cloth is visible.
The Tschako is unit marked "TB2" on the top of the inside skull. At first it
appears to be a "J" but it is actually the German "T" the same as what was
carried on the shoulder strap.
684
685
A nice photo of a
soldier in a Preuen
TelegraphenBataillon wearing an
identical Ersatz
Model 1899
Preuen Filz
Tschako.
Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen Ersatz Fibreboard Pickelhaube
Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen Fibreboard Pickelhaube. This example was

manufactured as a Model 1895 with brass fittings, but without rear spine.
To meet with the Aug 1914 declaration of war, the Germans began
manufacturing helmets from Ersatz (substitute) materials, with Fibreboard
686
being one of the materials.
687
A view of the standard brass Preuen Eagle Wappen (front plate).
A rear view showing that this pattern of Ersatz Fibreboard Pickelhaube was
made without a rear spine.
688
689
The side profile, showing that this rather scarce pattern of Ersatz Fibreboard
Pickelhaube is in very nice condition.
Note that as is typical for an Ersatz Fibreboard Pickelhaube, the front and rear visors are
riveted directrly onto the shell.
The liner is typical wartime brown leather similar to a standard leather

Pickelhaube, but rivited onto the fibreboard shell from the inside. This
example is in almost un-worn condition. The name of the man it was issued
to "Weider" is written on the rear visor.
690
A close-up of the rear visor showing the rivets holding it onto the shell. As
the front visor is reinforced with the brads for the brass visor trim, to
reinforce the rear visor, each side received two rivets.
691
A rare grouping; the matching Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen Fibreboard Pickelhaube,
Model 1895 XXI Armee-Korps Waffenrock, and Schirmmtze. To see the Schirmmtze
click Here. To see the Waffenrock click Here.
Ersatz Model 1895 Sachsen (Saxon) Filzhelme
692
Ersatz Model 1895 Sachsen (Saxon) Mannschaften (Other Ranks)

Filzhelme (felt helmet).
The helmet was manufactured as a Model 1895 with brass/Tombak fittings,
but without front visor trim or rear spine. The felt, however, is very thick
and stiff, making it quite sturdy. The Sachsen (Saxon) Wappen fits the
holes on the front of the helmet, but the black metal spike support plate
(which should be inside the helmet) is on the top under the spike. This sort
of error would not have occurred at a German Bekleidungsamt (clothing
depot).
An inspection of the helmet showed evidence of fading consistent with the
plate having been there for many years, so it was left where it is. A theory
exists that when large numbers of captured Pickelhaube were "prepared" in
1918 to be sold as part of the war bond effort in the USA, the black metal
spike support plates were often incorrectly placed under the spikes by
American workers.
693
694
A view of the Model 1895 Sachsen Infantry Mannschaften (Other Ranks) front plate.
As the Filzhelme Pickelhaube was constructed from pressed and blocked

rabbit felt, it afforded no practical head protection.
The liner is manufactured similar to a standard leather Pickelhaube and
sewn into the shell.
Note that the base plate, normally under the spike base on the inside, is not
there, as it is incorrectly placed on the exterior some time in the past.
695
696
A view of the side profile. This Pickelhaube has an interesting and attractive profile.
Ersatz Model 1915 Preuen
Field Artillery
Ersatz felt Model 1915 Preuen Feld Artillerie Mannschaften (Other

Ranks) Pickelhaube.
697
The helmet was manufactured as a Model 1915 with Feldgrau steel fittings with a rear
spine. Although this helmet does not have a front visor trim, it is made from the thick,
heavy pattern of felt which makes it quite sturdy. As on all Model 1915 helmets, the
ball top is removable.
698
A view of the Preuen Model 1915 line Wappen (front plate).
The liner on this example is manufactured from a thick leather similar to a

pre-war helmet
.
699
700
A view of the side profile. This Pickelhaube has an interesting and attractive
symmetrical profile.
Note how well it has retained its shape due to the thick felt.
Model 1915 Preuen
Model 1915 Preuen Feld Artillerie Mannschaften (Other Ranks)

Pickelhaube for Triersches Feldartill. - Regt Nr. 44, Trier VIII. ArmeeKorps.
The helmet is unit marked "FAR 44 1916" on the rear visor. As on all
Model 1915 helmets, the ball top is removable.
701
702
A view of the Preuen Model 1915 Wappen (front plate).
The rear profile of this example, showing the M1895 air vent.
703
704
A view of the Pickelhaube profile showing the almost vertical front.
The liner of this M1915 example remains in superb condition.
705
The helmet is unit marked "FAR 44 1916" on the rear visor.

Model 1915 Hessen
706
Model 1915 Hessen Feld Artillerie Mannschaften (Other Ranks)

Pickelhaube for 1. GroSherzogl. Hessisches Feldartill.-Regt. Nr. 25,
Darmstadt XVIII. Armee-Korps. The helmet is correctly unit marked "FAR
25" and "BAX 18" on the rear visor. As on all Model 1915 helmets, the
ball top is removable.
707
708
A view of the Hessen Model 1915 steel Wappen (front plate).
The helmet is unit marked "FAR 25" on the rear visor. The helmet is also
correctly Hessen Army Corps clothing depot marked "BA 18" on the rear
visor (upside down).
As with all M1915 helmets, the Kugel (ball) top was slotted and fit into a
corresponding bayonet-style lug on the round spike base.
709
710
A side view showing the profile of this rare example.
made from a much thinner leather than older helmets. The liner on this
example is in nice condition and appears to be calf skin. It still retains the
original leather cord with the knot as supplied by the Quartermaster.
711
A view of the unique Hesse Kokarde. Hessen Kokarden tend to be quite

thin and flatter than other state Kokarden.
712
Model 1915 Preuen Telegraph Battalion 3 Tschako
Model 1915 Preuen Tschako for Telegraphen - Batt. Nr. 3 Koblenz Darmstadt VIII. Armee-Korps. The Tschako is unit marked "Tel Batt.3" on
the top of the inside skull.
713
714
A view of the Preuen Tschako Model 1915 front plate.
A rear view.
715
716
A view of the side profile, showing the single air vent on either side, and Reich's
Kokarde was worn on the right side.
The liner of issued M1915 Tschako were light leather with rounded
"tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit
.
717
The Tschako is unit marked "Tel Batt.3" on the top of the inside skull.
718
Model 1915 Preuen

Pelzmtze
Model 1915 Preuen Mannschaften (Other Ranks) issued

Pelzmtze (Busby) for Husaren - Regt. Kaiser Franz
Joseph von sterreich von Ungarn (Schleswig Holsteinsches) Nr. 16, Schleswig IX. Armee-Korps. The
Pelzmtze is made from seal skin stretched over a bamboo
frame. As a wartime helmet, it appears that the cords and
719
Kolpak (the coloured bag) were never mounted.
A view of the Model 1915 steel Husaren Mannschaften

(Other Ranks) "Fatherland" Bandeau.
The Pelzmtze is unit marked "HR 16 1916" on the top.
The Pelzmtze has a waffled canvas interior

over a bamboo frame
720
A view of the M1915 issued liner, unchanged since 1850.
Model 1915 Preuen Ulanen

Tschapka
721
Model 1915 Preuen Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Ulanen

Tschapka. This helmet has the removable tin top introduced in
1915. Ulanen helmets followed the 1915 regulations and
utilized grey oxidized steel fittings.
A view of the Tschapka with the tin top removed.
Note how the bayonet-style lug for the top is similar
to the pattern utilized to secure the Infantry
removable spike.
722
A view of the Model 1915 Preuen Ulanen Wappen (front

plate).
Issued Tschapka carried the same unique liner for the

entire life of the Tschapka, from 1843 to 1915
.
723
A side view of the Model 1915 Tschapka which illustrates

how the back of the helmet is designed so that it curves down
724
around the wearer's skull.
Model 1915 Preuen Krassier

Metalhelme
Model 1915 Preuen Krassier Metalhelme. The helmet is
maker marked "Lachmann Berlin" on top the skull interior.
Lachmann helmets are very distinctive with the rear tail
drooping down at almost 90 degrees. Steel helmets for the
Preuen Krassier followed the 1915 regulations however,
this example has grey painted steel fittings, which are
normally grey oxidized steel fittings.
725
A side view of the Model 1915 Preuen Krassier Metalhelme.

Note how the rear tail droops down at almost 90 degrees, which is
unique to Lachmann manufactured helmets.
Like the earlier Krassier Metalhelme, the liner of issued
M1915 Metalhelme was of leather with rounded "tongues"
perforated at the ends for a leather string to adjust the fit.
Being a wartime helmet, however, the leather is extremely
thin.
726
A close-up of the maker's mark "Lachmann Berlin" on top the

skull interior.
727
Model 1915 Preuen Jger zu Pferde

Metalhelme
Model 1915 Preuen Jger zu Pferde issued Metalhelme.
Originally raised from Meldareiter (mounted dispatch riders) in
1887, the Jger-zu-Pferde ceased to be used in that function after
becoming a regiment in 1901 and were employed as mounted
light infantry, similar to Dragoner Regiments.
Blued steel helmets for the Preuen Jger zu Pferd followed the
1915 regulations and utilized grey oxidized steel fittings.
728
729
A view of the Model 1915 Preuen Jger zu Pferde Wappen (front

plate).
A rear view showing the point on the neck-guard and the unique
spike base.
730
731
A side view of the Model 1915 Jger zu Pferde Metalhelme.

Like the Krassier Metalhelme,
the liner of issued M1915
Metalhelme was of heavy
leather with rounded "tongues"
perforated at the ends for a
leather string to adjust the fit.
732
This example is maker marked "Helbing v.Sackewitz 1916" on

the inside skull.
733
Model 1915 Bayern Mounted Troops

Pickelhaube
Model 1915 Bayern (Bavarian) Mannschaften (Other Ranks) mountedtroops Pickelhaube with the distinctive cruciform spike base with fluted
spike, and squared front visor.
As there are no unit markings, there is no way to determine if this
helmet belonged to a Chevaulegers-Regt (Dragoon Regt), Schwere
Reiter (heavy cavalry), or Feldartillerie (Field Artillery) as all these
branches of the Bayern Army wore this pattern of helmet.
In 1916 Bayern adopted the Preuen pattern Kugel (ball) top for
artillery helmets, so this pattern of helmet would have been worn by the
Feldartillerie up to that date.
734
735
A view of the Bayern Mannschaften (Other Ranks) M1915 steel Wappen

(front plate).
Unlike the pre-war Dragoner and Artillerie helmets which had a back
spine secured to the helmet shell by two external brass studs, this M15
version has no studs on the back spine.
736
737
The side profile of this rather scarce pattern of Pickelhaube.
This Pickelhaube appears to be a product of the same manufacturer who

made the Model 1896/1914 Bayern (Bavaria) Pickelhaube on the
Dunkelblau helmets page, as all manner of construction is identical.
Even the wing nuts on screw posts to secure the front Bayern Wappen
are identical, except they are steel, not brass. In this case, the screw
posts are peculiar to this manufacturer and not a sign of a private
purchase helmet. The manufacturer's mark is unfortunately, illegible
738
As on all Model 1915 helmets, the fluted spike top is removable.

Similar to Dragoner helmets, the ball-pattern Perlring was worn by all
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) personnel and does not indicate an NCO.
The liner of this M1915 example remains in very nice condition.
Normally, liners are sewn on with the seam at the rear where the rear
spine is secured to the shell. On this example, however, the liner was
sewn on slightly to one side. Obviously made late on a Friday
afternoon!
Note the cruciform metal reinforcement for the spike base. This was an
attempt to prevent the skull from collapsing, which helmets with crossbases are prone to do.
739
740
A wonderful photo of a member of a Chevaulegers-Regt posing with his

bride. He belongs to either the Chevauleger Regiment 2 or 7, as he
wears the insignia of the 11th Bayern Infanterie Division on the collar
of his Feldgrau M10 Chevaulegers-Regt Waffenrock.
Note that on the spike neck of his M15 Chevaulegers Pickelhaube, there
is no Perlring. This supports the idea that the removable fluted spikes on
741
these helmets came with, or without a Perlring.
Model 1916/1917 Stahlhelm
742
The Model 1916 helmet was developed in 1915 to counter the effects of countless head
wounds due to der Stellungskrieg (trench warfare). The helmets were first issued for
field testing in Dec 1915 to the 1st Assault Battalion. The trials were so satisfactory that
an initial issue of helmets was made by Jan 1916. Unlike the Allied helmets, the
German helmet used a very high quality chromium-nickel steel and afforded superb
protection to the neck and ears. The helmet weighed approximately 1 Kilogram (2.2
Lb.) and was issued in six sizes 60 to 70 in 2 cm increments. The size of the shell is
stamped onto the rear of the apron. The size could also be determined by the two
ventilation lugs on either side of the temple area.
These lugs are found in four sizes and

doubled as mounting posts for a heavy
forehead shield. This is the lug for
helmets size 66 and 68. This is the
largest size commonly available,
although there is evidence that a small
quantity of size 70 were manufactured.
This is the lug for helmets size

64.
743
This is the lug for helmets size

60. This is the smallest size of
helmet.
The Model 1891 chinstrap posts

from the old Spiked Helmets were
retained for use on the new
helmets.
The liner band was

manufactured from thick
leather, and held onto the
helmet shell with three split
prongs. Three liner pads were
sewn to the band.
744
Each liner pad had a small

pouch on the reverse for
padding. Each pouch was tied
with ribbon, and filled with
horse hair.
In May 1917 the helmet was

modified by replacing the
leather liner band with one
made of sheet metal. This was
made necessary by the leather
shortage at that time. The
Model 1891 chinstrap posts
were retained. The new
helmets with the metal bands
were designated Model 1917
Stahlhelm
745
This Model 1917

example is in near
issued condition
retaining almost
all the green finish
Model 1916/1917 Camouflage

Painted Stahlhelm
On 7 July 1918 the Chief of the General Staff issued a directive that all
Stahlhelm would be painted into segments of green, yellow ochre, rust and
brown. All sections were to be of equal size, sharp cornered and separated by
a "finger wide" black stripe. The helmets were to be painted by the users with
paint supplied. Consequently, in theory no two camouflage Stahlhelm are
alike. All of the examples below have full liners.
A superb example of the camouflage four-color painting separated by a
"finger wide" black line on a Model 1916 Stahlhelm.
746
An interesting example of a Model 1916 Stahlhelm that combines both

rounded shapes, as well as the regulation sharp corners.
On this Model 1917 the colors of brown and green are used predominantly
.
747
748
This Model 1916 helmet retains the original ersatz cloth chinstrap. The
chinstrap is made in the same fashion as the Model 1891.
Model 1917 Stahlhelm for a MG unit. This helmet was a souvenir from a
member of the 85th Battalion CEF, note the mud still in the vent post. The
helmet also retains the original leather chinstrap.
749
The inside of the above helmet has the owners name and unit "H.Lang
1MGK" (1 Machine Gun Company) painted onto the rear apron.
A good example of a Model 1916 Stahlhelm painted according to

regulations.
750
In 1918 the Model 1891 chinstrap and post was replaced by a more efficient
chinstrap which attached directly to the liner band. This helmet was
designated the Model 1918.
TUNIC

Issued M-07/10 Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Feldrock
751
Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) issued M-07/10
Feldrock from 2.
Kurhessisches InfanterieRegt. Nr.82 (Gttingen)
XI Armee Korps. The
Feldrock is a regulation
issue example in Feldgrau
wool with red wool
piping. Typical to issue
tunics it has eight
darkened brass on the
front in the rimmed M07/1910 crown pattern.
The collar and cuffs are
closed with cloth tabs for
ventilation.
An issued M-07/10
Feldrock is arguably the
rarest and most desirable
Imperial German Feldgrau
tunic to find. Due to
attrition and the course of
the war, very few
examples have survived.
752
Note that the corners of the collar are slightly rounded.

A close up of the slip-on pattern M-07/10 shoulder straps. The numbers are
chain-stitched in red. The piping color for the XI Armee Korps was winered.
753
Slip-on pattern M-07/10 shoulder straps have a tongue at the back which
enables the straps to be removable.
754
A view of the cloth tabs to close the cuffs on issue M1910 tunics.
755
Essentially, the rear

of the M-07/10
Feldrock was
identical to the
M1895 Dunkelblau
Waffenrock. The rear
skirt had two large
buttons attached
above the rear skirt
formation which
were used to carry the
extra weight of the
belt and its attached
equipment. In each
rear skirt liner were
two pockets, which
were accessed
through a long
vertical slit opening.
A view of the rear button hooks.
756
A view of the cloth tab used to close the collar on issue M1910 tunics.
757
The tunic is completely lined in an off-white/grey on the top and a grey/tan

linen on the bottom. Note the two leather reinforcements for the rear belt
hooks, and the field dressing pocket on the lower right.
758
A view of the linen interior showing evidence of numerous issue markings

and dates for the XI Armee Korps.
759
A soldier wears a new issue Model

1910 tunic for the camera.
Two veteran's pins form IR82 and a soldier's unit identification disk from
the Regiment.
760

Issued Model 1915 Mannschaft (Other
Ranks) Bluse
761
Mannschaft (Other Ranks) issue

M1915 Bluse from 2 Hannoversches
Inf.- Regt. Nr. 77 Celle X. ArmeeKorps. The Bluse was introduced in
1915 to replace the M10 Waffenrock.
This example is a regulation issue
Model 1915 feldgrau wool with deep
turned-back cuffs and an apple green
collar. The front is secured with six
large concealed horn buttons. The
remainder of the tunic buttons are grey
painted metal and are of the M1915
rimless pattern. The Bluse is displayed
with the standard Model 1909 field
equipment, including stick grenade and
a trench club.
The shoulder straps are the M1915 pattern and are sewn directly to the
shoulder seam. The linen interior shows evidence of numerous issue markings
and dates.
762
A soldier wears a new issue Model 1915

Bluse for the camera.

Issued M15 Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Mantel (Greatcoat)
763

issue M1915 Mantel
(Greatcoat) from SchleswigHolsteinisches Inf. Regt. Nr.
163 Neumnster IX. ArmeeKorps. The Mantel is a
regulation issue Model 1915
feldgrau wool with apple
green collar. The cuffs are a
deep turned-back similar to
the M15 Bluse. The linen
interior shows evidence of
numerous issue markings and
dates but they are very
difficult to make out.
764
Like the M1915 Bluse, shoulder straps on the M1915 greatcoat were sewn
onto the outside seam of the shoulder. Buttons are grey painted metal and are
of the M1915 rimless pattern. The shoulder straps are the M1915 pattern and
are sewn directly to the shoulder seam.
Typical to issue Greatcoats it has cloth tabs to close the deep fold-over
collar.
765
766
The rear of the greatcoat

showing the adjustable belt
secured by one large button.
Note the large pleat in the
center of the back.
A close-up of the rear belt. Note the cloth loops along the side which
allowed the user to clip the bottom hem of the coat in these loops to keep it
out of the mud. Along the bottom hem of the coat are metal hooks for this
purpose.
767

Model 1915 Officer's Mantel (Overcoat)
768
Private purchase
Officer's Model
1915 Mantel
from Inf-Regt.
Landgraf
Friedrich I. von
Hessen-Cassel (1.
Kurhessisches)
Nr. 81 Frankfurt
a. M. XVIII.
Armee-Korps.
769
The Mantel is a good quality feldgrau ribbed material similar to twill with a
large apple-green collar. All buttons are feldgrau painted in the domed
M1915 crown pattern. The shoulder boards are sewn into the shoulder
seam, and are of the M1910 pattern.
770
The back of
this Private
purchase
Officer's
Model 1915
Mantel.
The rear skirts on the mantel are cut similar to the M10 Feldrock, but it
does not function; they do not ventilate and are sewn down flat. An
771
adjustable belt with one M15 pattern button is secured above the
simulated skirt.
772
A rare grouping; the matching Model 1915 Preuen officer's Model 1915
Pickelhaube and berzug, Model 1915 Overcoat, and Model 1915
Schirmmtze. To see the Schirmmtze click Here. To see the Pickelhaube and
berzug click Here.
Riesenflugzeugabteilung 501
Sergeant's Model 1910 Flieger Tunic
773
Riesenflugzeugabteilung
501 (Giant Aircraft
Detachment 501)
Sergeant's Model 1910
Flieger tunic. The tunic
was privately purchased,
and is manufactured from
a high-quality feldgrau
ribbed wool with four rear
panels. The tunic correctly
adheres to the regulations
for Fliegertruppen with
single Garde Litzen on the
collar and double Garde
Litzen on the cuffs. The
buttons throughout are
light grey, correct for
Fliegertruppen. The chest
awards are the 1914 Iron
Cross 1st class and the
Prussian Pilot's badge
(Flugzeugfhrerabzeichen)
. The ribbons are for the
1914 Iron Cross 2nd class
and the Saxon St. Henry
Medal in Silver.
774
Collar and cuffs are piped in black for Verkehrstruppen Transportation

Troops) and edged in subdued M10 grey NCO's braid. The addition of a large
collar button indicates the rank of Sergeant. The privately purchased Flieger
shoulder straps are regulation Model 1910, being Feldgrau with light grey
piping for Verkehrstruppen. The #3 on the straps indicates the owner of the
tunic was initially employed with the 3rd Flieger Ersatz Abteilung (3rd Flyer
Replacement
Unit)
before
joining
Rfa
501.
Rfa 501 was one of only two units to operate the enormous Staaken heavy
bomber over England in the Great War. For more information on Rfa 501 and
the Staaken Bomber CLICK HERE.
The light-grey Rfa 501 unit patch measures 87 X 67 mm and

is hand-sewn onto the sleeve. The patch clearly shows the
striped red/white hand-sewn numbers unique to the two
775
heavy bomber units, Rfa 500 and Rfa 501.
Certain clothing articles were purchased by units for wear by NCOs and
usually stamped with a unit marking. Once the clothing article was worn
for one year, it was declared to be 2/3 of the value and given to the NCO.
These clothing articles had to be marked in order to differentiate them
from the new articles so they were marked as being Eigentum (property)
and were stamped by the unit clothing depot with E or Eigentum.
776
The lining is stamped "Flieg Ers Abt 1915 Eigentum" which translates as
"Flieger Ersatz Abteilung 1915", indicating the tunic was purchased from a
tailor by 3rd Flieger Ersatz Abteilung (3rd Flyer Replacement Unit) and
stamped as belonging to that unit. After one year of wear, the Feldrock was
then stamped with "Eigentum" and given to the NCO for continued use.
777
A view of the
Iron Cross
2nd class and
Saxon St.
Henry Medal
in Silver
ribbons worn
on the
buttonhole.
A close-up of the Swedish cuffs with Garde pattern NCO lace and subdued
Garde Litzen.
One of the very few surviving German Pilot's NCO Model 1910 tunics from
778
the Great War, this is believed to be the only surviving tunic from
Riesenflugzeugabteilung 501.
Preuen Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Model 1895 Belt and Buckle
The Model 1895 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) belt was made of tan leather with
the rough-side out. The buckle was stamped brass with a center white metal
wappen with the Preuen crown and "Gott Mit Uns" (God with us). This belt
and buckle was worn until 1915, when the buckle was manufactured from
grey painted steel, and the belts were ordered blackened.
Preuen Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Mounted-Troops Belt and Buckle
779
The Model 1895 Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Mounted-Troops belt and

buckle was made of tan leather with the rough-side out. The buckle was cast
brass with a rear hook to accommodate the clip of the standard issue Model
1895 belt. This belt and buckle was worn by Cavalry, Field Artillery, and Train
units until 1915, when the buckle was manufactured from grey painted steel,
and the belts were ordered blackened.
Preuen Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Telegraph Belt and Buckle
780
The Model 1895 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Telegraph belt was made of tan
leather with the rough-side out. The buckle was stamped brass with a center
white metal Wappen with the Preuen crown and "Gott Mit Uns" (God with
us). The two hooks on either side are designed to hook into corresponding
clips on the telegraphers wire reel. In 1915, the buckle was manufactured
from grey painted steel, and the belts were ordered blackened. *NOTE*
Photographic evidence indicates that not every individual in a Telegraph
Battalion wore this buckle as is commonly thought. Similarly, photographs
show soldiers of regular line units wearing this buckle. It appears that any
soldier who was in a Telegraph section as a line layer, in any unit (infantry,
Artillery, etc), wore the buckle.
Preuen Model 1915 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Belt and Buckle
781
The Model 1915 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) belt was made of blackened tan
leather with the rough-side out. The buckle was manufactured from grey
painted steel with a stamped Wappen with the Preuen crown and "Gott Mit
Uns" (God with us).
Preuen Model 1915 Officer's Brocade Belt
782
The Preuen Officer's Model 1915 Brocade belt is manufactured from woven
subdued grey bullion, with two black interwoven stripes signifying the state.
The buckle is highly detailed stamped grey-painted steel with the "WII"
cypher of Kaiser Wilhelm II. The belt is backed in a Feldgrau wool. This
pattern of belt was only used for a short period, and examples are rare
today.
Preuen Officer's Model 1915 Leather Belt
783
The Preuen Officer's Model 1915 leather belt is manufactured from pebbled
brown leather with a highly detailed stamped grey-painted steel buckle with
the "WII" cypher of Kaiser Wilhelm II. The belt is backed in a tan felt.
Model 1915 Gummimask
784
The Model 1915 Gummimask was the first issued German gas mask. It
comprised a filter with a rubberized cloth face mask. The mask and a spare
filter were carried in a cloth bag designed to be worn on the belt. The outer
carrier is marked "San. Unffz Haardt 2.M.G.K./R.99"
(Medical Cpl Haardt 2nd machine Gun Company 99th Regt.). The bag is
stamped size 2 on one end.
785
A view of the mask and spare filter on the interior.

Model 1917 Lederschutzmaske
786
The gas mask was now carried in a metal container, and made with a leather
face mask. The mask was now known as the Model 1917 Lederschutzmaske
(Leather protection mask). The canister came with a canvas strap, worn over
the shoulder, and a smaller strap which hooked onto a button on the rear
skirt.
Model 1887/1909 Field Equipment
The Model 1887/1909 Field

Equipment consisted of two Model
1909 ammunition pouches, a Model
1887 Haversack, Model 1907
waterbottle, Bayonet and frog, and a
Model 1895 backpack. Not pictured
(I do not have one unfortunately.)
is the Model 1887 entrenching tool
and carrier.
787
A view of the right side of the equipment.

The water bottle is worn clipped to the
Haversack. The Haversack was used for
holding a soldiers personal possessions,
such as feldmtze (cap), rations, eating
utensils etc.
788
A view of the rear of the equipment. The

pack would normally have a groundsheet,
mess tin, and greatcoat strapped to the rear.
789
A view of the rear of the 1887/1909 Field Equipment. The pack was not worn
in combat, and is easily removed.
Model 1892 Shelter Quarter
790
The Model 1892 Shelter Quarter is designed to be connected with several

other shelter quarters to form a tent large enough for four soldiers. It could
also be used as individual shelter. This example is marked "Gehrung Stuttgart
1914".
A close-up of the "Gehrung Stuttgart 1914" maker's stamp. Note the zinc buttons and
grommets.
Model 1908 Fernglas
791
The Model 1908 Fernglas (Binoculars) come in a fitted leather case. The
Binoculars are marked "36.R.10.16" (36 reserve regiment Oct 1916). The case
has a paper label with instructions for the "Fernglas 08". The case was
manufactured by "G.P. Goerz Berlin".
Medic's Field Kit
792
There are two corresponding pouches with the medic's field kit. One pouch
contains a variety of bandages (all dated 1916), and the other pouch contains
Opium, Lobelin (a narcotic), salve, cleaning solutions, and tape. All the items
in the two cases are original to the pouches, and have been intact since the
war.
Imperial German Smoking Accessories
793
Brass matchbox cover with a brass Preuen "Gott Mit Uns" belt buckle center. This is
the most commonly encountered style, and could be Allied or German manuf
Actured
.
A superb patriotic matchbox. The box is silver with a sliding drawer to house the
matches with a striker plate on the side. The front is embossed with a detailed likeness
of Kaiser Wilhelm II. Around the feature of Wilhelm are; "GOTT MIT UNS"' and
"KAISER WILHELM II" with his birth date of; "GEB 27 JAN 1859".
A black enameled matchbox cover with a color

picture of Hindenburg and an engraved Iron Cross.
794
Crown Prince Wilhelm's 1916 Christmas gift to

the 5th Army. The cigarette case is black enameled
with a color picture of Prince Wilhelm. The case is
engraved "5. Armee Weihnachten 1916" on the
reverse. The case was given out with a cloth bag,
which is maker marked "Berlin". Crown Prince
Wilhelm was the heir to the throne, and would
have become Kaiser after the death of Wilhelm II.
As the Commander of the 5th Army, Prince
Wilhelm gave every man a gift at Christmas for
the duration of the war.
A unique brass machine gun matchbox cover. The cover

is embossed with a MG08, surrounded by machine gun
belts, similar to the machine gunners cloth qualification
patch. The back of the cover is marked " Andenken an
der Weltkrieg" and maker marked "Cln".
Crown Prince Wilhelm's

1915 Christmas gift to the
5th Armee was a small
leather pouch containing
tobacco. The sack is
stamped with a large crown
and "W" for prince
Wilhelm, and also stamped
"5. Armee Weihnachten
1915" on the reverse. A
porcelain pipe with likeness
of Prince Wilhelm is shown
with this item.
Brass matchbox cover with a Pickelhaube embossed onto the front. The reverse is
795
marked "Souvineer of France" indicating that this was an Allied made cover.
Brass matchbox cover with a brass Preuen "Gott Mit Uns" belt buckle center. There
is a small additional piece under the buckle center marked "Sir De France" indicating
that this cover was French manufactured.
A patriotic cigarette case. The case is steel, and may have originally been gilded, as the
interior remains gilt. The exterior displays an Iron Cross surrounded by oak leaves,
with the motto " KRAFT UND WEHR FUR RECHT UND EHR". The case is dated
inside "Aug. 18.18" and marked to the owner "Maj Kelzes Erst Batt. 5. Komp Inf.
Regt 179.".
796
A patriotic cigar case. The case is

pebbled silver, with a helmeted
soldier's bust on the cover.
Although pure silver and of high
quality, the case is not maker
marked.
Model 1916 Field Telephone
The Model 1916 Field Telephone comes in a wooden case with a leather
carrying strap. The telephone has an interior battery and hand cranked
generator. The lid is marked on the interior "Feldfernsprecher 16 Type B" and
maker marked "E. Zwielusch & Co. Charlottenburg".
Fu Artillerie Dispatch Pouch
797
The Fu Artillerie (Foot Artillery) dispatch pouch is made from brown leather
and marked "BR 9005. FUSSARTILL ERIE" on the top of the lid.
Fu Artillerie Binoculars
Designed for long-range spotting, the Fu Artillerie (Foot Artillery) Binoculars come
with a collapsible wooden tripod. The optics are clear and flawless, and can see objects
at a remarkable distance.
798
The Binoculars are marked "Klemme

Losen bevor Arme bewegt werden"
(Ensure to tighten before loose arms are
moved).
A close-up of the
manufacturer's mark "C.P.
Goerz Berlin S.F. 14G Fussa
7139". They are also dated
"IV 18".
Grenades
799
The Model 1915 stick grenade was designed for offensive operations. For
defensive operations, a "Ball" grenade and the smaller "Egg" grenade were
developed.
Model 1916 Granatenwerfer
800
The Model 1916 Granatenwerfer

(Grenade Thrower) was designed to
give troops in the trench an ability to lob
grenades into enemy positions up to a
distance of 300 meters. The weapon is a
spigot type, with the propellant charge
in the base of the projectile. The spigot
contains a firing pin which is cocked by
a lever on the side of the weapon. Note
the original lanyard and handle used to
fire the weapon at a safe distance. The
paint is original, and the launcher is
completely serviceable. The launcher
came with the original shipping crate,
tools, and a full spare parts and springs
kit.
801
A view of the left side of the

Granatenwerfer 16. Note the
handle for adjusting the range
and the range scale with a
maximum range of 300
meters.
The Granatenwerfer has a

makers metal plate on the base
marked "Granatenwerfer 16
Gebr Bing A. Nurnberg".
It is interesting to note that the Bing company Nurnberg was a toy

manufacturer before the war and was pressed into service manufacturing
helmets and weapons during the war.
802
A view of the tools, and a full spare parts and springs kit.
Trench Club
This is an original example of a trench club obtained from a long-standing

collection. The club is made from turned hardwood and pressed with hobnails.
The head has been drilled out and filled with lead. There is no way to know if
this is a German or Allied trench club. Contrary to popular myth, these clubs
were not produced by individuals. They were produced in mass by units in the
field utilizing regimental carpenters and welders etc to produce large amounts
of the same pattern of club.
P08 Machine Gun Marked DWM Luger
803
This is a beautiful example of the famous P08 Luger. All serial numbers
match and the blued finish is 99% intact. The Luger is marked "DWM"
(DEUTSCHE WAFFEN und MUNICIONEN FABRIK) and is dated "1916"
on the top of the toggle slide. The holster is dated 1916.
The pistol grip is marked " 163 R. 1MG 30" (163 Regiment 1st Machine Gun
Company , weapon #30).
P08 Artillery DWM Luger
804
This is a nice example of the famous P08 Artillery Luger. All serial numbers
match. This pattern of Luger with an 8 inch barrel was used primarily by
Artillery troops.
The Luger is marked "DWM" (DEUTSCHE WAFFEN und MUNICIONEN

FABRIKr) and dated "1917" on the top of the toggle slide.
Flare Pistol
805
This example of the flare pistol is maker marked "C.H.R.F." (The perfect
home defense weapon?).
Lille Depot Occupation Manufactured Ersatz Flare Pistol
This is an example of the Ersatz weapons manufactured during the war. It is

mostly cast and lacks the detailed finish seen on earlier weapons. These flare
pistol's were manufactured in occupied Belgium for the German forces in the
field at the Lille Depot. It is 13" overall with heavy steel barrel with a side
mounted push button latch and hinge opening. The pistol is armed by pulling
back a heavy spring plunger cocking mechanism. One one side of the wooden
grips are a" Kdtur LILLE" (Kommandantur Lille) contract stamp and on the
other an impressed stamp of "J.R. 91 1 Batl" for Oldenburgisches InfanterieRegt. Nr.91 1st Battalion.
806
Gewehr 98
The standard rifle since 1898, this example has all matching serial numbers
and is marked "Amberg 1915" on the top of the receiver.
Kar 98
The Kar 98 is a shortened version of the Gewehr 98, and was intended for
Mounted units including Field Artillery. This example has all matching serial
numbers and is marked "Erfurt 1917" on the top of the receiver.
AIR
Riesenflugzeugabteilung 501
Sergeant's Model 1910 Flieger Tunic
Riesenflugzeugabteilung 501 (Giant
Aircraft Detachment 501)
Sergeant's Model 1910 Flieger
tunic. The tunic was privately
purchased, and is manufactured
from a high-quality feldgrau ribbed
wool with four rear panels. The
tunic correctly adheres to the
regulations for Fliegertruppen with
807
single Garde Litzen on the collar and

double Garde Litzen on the cuffs.
The buttons throughout are light
grey, correct for Fliegertruppen. The
chest awards are the 1914 Iron
Cross 1st class and the Prussian
Pilot's badge
(Flugzeugfhrerabzeichen). The
ribbons are for the 1914 Iron Cross
2nd class and the Saxon St. Henry
Medal in Silver.
808
809
Collar and cuffs are piped in black for Verkehrstruppen Transportation

Troops) and edged in subdued M10 grey NCO's braid. The addition of a large
collar button indicates the rank of Sergeant. The privately purchased Flieger
shoulder straps are regulation Model 1910, being Feldgrau with light grey
piping for Verkehrstruppen. The #3 on the straps indicates the owner of the
tunic was initially employed with the 3rd Flieger Ersatz Abteilung (3rd Flyer
Replacement
Unit)
before
joining
Rfa
501.
Rfa 501 was one of only two units to operate the enormous Staaken heavy
bomber over England in the Great War. For more information on Rfa 501 and
the Staaken Bomber CLICK HERE.
The light-grey Rfa 501 unit patch measures 87 X 67 mm and is hand-sewn
onto the sleeve. The patch clearly shows the striped red/white hand-sewn
numbers unique to the two heavy bomber units, Rfa 500 and Rfa 501.
810
Certain clothing articles were purchased by units for wear by NCOs and
usually stamped with a unit marking. Once the clothing article was worn
for one year, it was declared to be 2/3 of the value and given to the NCO.
These clothing articles had to be marked in order to differentiate them
from the new articles so they were marked as being Eigentum (property)
and were stamped by the unit clothing depot with E or Eigentum.
811
The lining is stamped "Flieg Ers Abt 1915 Eigentum" which translates as
"Flieger Ersatz Abteilung 1915", indicating the tunic was purchased from a
tailor by 3rd Flieger Ersatz Abteilung (3rd Flyer Replacement Unit) and
stamped as belonging to that unit. After one year of wear, the Feldrock was
then stamped with "Eigentum" and given to the NCO for continued use.
812
A view of the
Iron Cross
2nd class and
Saxon St.
Henry Medal
in Silver
ribbons worn
on the
buttonhole.
A close-up of the Swedish cuffs with Garde pattern NCO lace and subdued
Garde Litzen.
813
One of the very few surviving German Pilot's NCO Model 1910 tunics from
the Great War, this is believed to be the only surviving tunic from
Riesenflugzeugabteilung 501.
Model 1910 Preuen Mannschaften
(Other Ranks) Schirmmtze for Artillerie, Pioniere and Verkehrstruppen
Model 1910 Preuen Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Schirmmtze for Artillerie, Pioniere and
Verkehrstruppen (Verkehrstruppen - Transportation Troops. These included all Eisenbahn
(Railway), Telegraphen (Telegraph), Flieger (Flying), Luftschiffer (Balloon and Zeppelin).
The Schirmmtze is made from feldgrau wool with a black wool band and piping.
814
A close up of
the issued
Mannschaften
Schirmmtze
Kokarden that
are held on with
split prongs.
The cap is lined with a grey colored Ersatz paper lining and Ersatz
imitation-leather (coated paper) sweat band. The lining is devoid of any
visible markings.
815
816
A soldier from FEA 1 (FliegerErsatz-Abtielung) (Flyer

Replacement Detachment #1)
wearing an issued M1910 Feldgrau
Schirmmtze.
Model 1910 Sachsen (Saxon) Officer's

Schirmmtze for Artillerie, Pioniere and
Verkehrstruppen
Model 1910 Sachsen (Saxon) Officer's Schirmmtze for Artillerie, Pioniere
817
and Verkehrstruppen (Verkehrstruppen - Transportation Troops. These

included all Eisenbahn (Railway), Telegraphen (Telegraph), Flieger (Flying),
Luftschiffer (Balloon and Zeppelin).
This superb Schirmmtze is made from a high quality Feldgrau wool with a
black velvet band and officer's Kokarden.
A close up of the officer's Kokarden and the black velvet band.
The cap is lined with a cream colored artificial silk with a dark brown
leather
sweat
band.
This example displays one of my favorite characteristics in a field-worn
cap, the wear on the bottom interior of the visor from the owners thumb;
the result of pulling the cap on hundreds of times in the field.
818
819
A side view showing the nice "saddle" shape of this Model 1910 Sachsen
(Saxon) Officer's Schirmmtze.
Observer
Oberleutnant
von Cossel
wearing a
M1910 visor
cap with black
velvet band as
part of the
Fliegertruppen.
Flieger Leather Crash Helmet
820
Flieger Leather crash helmet.

Unit marked "Flg Bekl
Dberitz" (Flieger
Bekleidungsamt Dberitz) on
the rear neck flap for Flieger
clothing depot Dberitz
which was the Imperial flight
school. The "Bumper pads"
around the helmet appear to
be filled with horse hair.
The helmet liner is in

remarkable condition. Note the
stitch marks for the top
bumper pad on the skull
interior.
821
Flieger Summer Weight Pilot's Helmet
Flieger Summer
Weight Pilot's
Helmet. The helmet
is a light-weight
leather lined in
cotton.
Flieger Flight Crew Goggles
822
Flieger Flight Crew Goggles. This pair utilizes aluminum frames with removable glass
lenses. The outer sides of the frames are hinged allowing quick removal of the glass.
The inside of the goggles are lined with fur and the retaining band is elastic.
Becker Automatic Cannon Rounds
Becker Automatic Cannon rounds. The 20mm Becker Cannon (2cm FlugzeugMaschinen-Kanone. Becker-Type 2-1045) was experimentally mounted by the Imperial
German Air Service for the first time in 1915 on a Gotha bomber. By the end of the war
the Becker Cannon had been mounted with some success on AEG GIV bombers,
Friedrichshaven GIIIa bombers and Gotha GIV bombers. They were also mounted with
some success on armoured aircraft such as the Albatros GI. At least two Becker
Cannons were mounted on Zeppelins. Capable of 400 rounds per minute, the German
bomber crews would pump rounds into Allied trenches when returning from missions.
The entire round is 146mm long with the projectile being

76mm in length. The diameter of the projectile at the
base is 21mm (driving band) and the casing at the base is
22mm at the widest point. The projectile is machinedsteel and marked with what appears to be a crown-proof,
"M, 4 18". The sharply tapered nose identifies this as an
Armour-Piercing round. The casing is brass and the head
stamp is clearly marked "Sp 3 18 Av Ku" (March 1918).
823
The entire round is 145mm long with the projectile being

75mm in length. The diameter of the projectile at the
base is 21mm (driving band) and the casing at the base is
22mm at the widest point. The projectile is machinedsteel and marked with what appears to be a crown-proof,
"SV, 5 17". The squared off nose identifies this as an
incendiary round. The casing is brass and the head stamp
is clearly marked "Sp 61 P & S 3 5 17" (03 May 1917).
There are only two surviving Becker cannons, one in France from a shot-down AEG G1
and one in Washington USA.
2cm Flugzeug-Maschinen-Kanone Becker-Type 2-1045 mounted on a Friedrichshaven

GIIIa bomber in 1918.
824
"Flieger Meldung" Message Streamer
"Flieger Meldung" Message Streamer The streamer is 135cm (53 inches) long with a
metal 20 cm (8 inch) hollow cylinder at one end with a cork stopper. Message would be
placed in the container by flight crews and then dropped onto friendly positions. This
example still retains an old display tag which states "War of 1914-1918. There being no
radio communications from planes then, flyers messages were dropped in this
container".
The Line Pickelhaube
The intent of this page is to show a few examples of leather Pickelhaube

worn prior to the end of the German Empire in November 1918. To show
one of every pattern for all the contingents in every rank would be
impossible and involve hundreds of examples. The variety in the various
characteristics such as Wappen (front plate) on Pickelhaube is enormous
and this page hopes to serve only as an introduction.
To determine rank and identify specific features or characteristics on the
leather Pickelhaube such as Wappen, spike patterns, etc please refer to
the "Pickelhaube Characteristics & Rank Guide" in the main reference
section of Kaiser's Bunker. For information on the evolution of the
Preuen Pickelhaube please refer to the "Preuen Pickelhaube Evolution"
page also in the main references.
825
Click to Enlarge
Line Infantry Mannschaften

The foot-troops issued Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) M1895 Pickelhaube shown here was
the final pre-1914 evolution in a long series of
spiked helmets. It was manufactured from
boiled leather, lacquered black, and provided
with fittings made of brass or German silver
dependant upon the Regt. The protection it
offered was very limited and led to the
eventual replacement by a steel helmet in
1916. To reduce the reflection of the brass or
silver fittings, all ranks were issued with cloth
berzug (helmet cover) in 1892 with the
Regimental number in red on the front. In
1914 the color of the number was changed to
dark green and in 1915 it was removed. The
example shown here is for Fsilier Regt. Nr.
826
73, X.Armee-Korps.
The Wappen (front plate) and other characteristics on Pickelhaube vary widely and are
best explained by the "Pickelhaube Characteristics & Rank Guide" available through the
index. Additionally, for your convenience, overall uniform descriptions for all
Regiments and Battalions (Except Bavaria) are detailed (for 1914 only) in the
"Regiment/Battalion Uniform Details Charts" links at the bottom of this page.
Below is an abbreviated list of contingents that utilized some form of Pickelhaube after
1842:
1842 - Preuen (Prussia);

1843 - Oldenburg;
1846 - Hesse-Darmstadt;
1849 - Baden;
1848 - Mecklenburg-Schwerin;
1867 - Sachsen (Saxony);
1871 - Wrttemberg;
1886 - Bayern (Bavaria);
1886 - Braunschweig;
1903 - Preuen, Sachsen, & Wrttemberg Train (Supply).
Many units (not all) were authorized to

wear a helmet Trichter and Haarbusch
(parade plume) on parade. Mannschaften
(Other Ranks) utilized horse-hair in white,
black, or red (for musicians), while officers
utilized white or black yak-hair. The spike
tops for these helmets for all ranks, are
removable to enable a Trichter to be
mounted. Removable spike tops are found
in all patterns of Pickelhaube.
827
Line Foot Officer

The Pickelhaube of commissioned officers
holding a rank from Lieutenant to Colonel are
all identical in features, but not quality. The
quality of helmets within these ranks
depended entirely on how much the individual
wished to spend. A lowly Lieutenant's helmet
may be of much higher quality than one worn
by a Colonel. As expected, officer helmets
were of a much higher quality than the issued
version and utilized the "squared finger" liners
until 1880 when the internal leather
sweatband and silk skull-cap came into use.
Regardless of the unit, officer Pickelhaube
share common features such as: the
undersides of visors are lined, Officer
Kokarden are carried, and the "egg & dart"
Perlring was matched with star-pattern spike
base brads, and chinscales were worn.
Click to Enlarge
The officer's Pickelhaube was basically

unchanged from 1871 to 1899 when it had a
more domed shape, and from 1899 to the end
it had more of a skull shape. Otherwise, with
the exception of the addition of the Reich's
Kokarde in 1897, the officer's Haube was the
same from 1871 to 1918.
828
Garde
Preuen (Prussian) Garde Pickelhaube carried
a distinctive swept-wing eagle Wappen (front
plate). Four basic patterns of Wappen can be
found on Garde Pickelhaube, issued, and
several levels of Eigentums-helm, (privately
purchased). All of the patterns are shown in
the "Pickelhaube Characteristics & Rank
Guide" available through the index. Generally,
Garde Mannschaften (Other Ranks) after
1891 wore flat chinscales in garrison and
replaced them with the M91 leather chinstrap
in the field. The example shown here is a
Preuen Garde Infantry Officer's Pickelhaube
for 2. Garde - Regt zu Fu, Garde - Korps.
Click to Enlarge
The Garde - Korps included Pickelhaube-wearing troops such as: Infantry, Train
(Supply), Feldartillerie (Field Artillery), Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery), Dragoner
(Mounted Rifle), Pionier (Pioneer), and Eisenbahn etc. All are found with some form of
Garde eagle Wappen in gilt or German silver dependant upon the unit.
For officer Pickelhaube, the spike height

would gradually increase throughout the
life of the Pickelhaube until it began
reaching excessive proportions as
illustrated in the period photograph of
Prinz Oscar von Preuen (son of Kaiser
Wilhelm II).
829
Reserve
Reserve Pickelhaube carry a variety of cross on
the Wappen (front plate). As a general rule,
the cross replaces the Bandeau with the
contingent's motto, but exceptions exist,
probably in the desire to use up existing
stocks. The German Army had four distinct
classifications of military service; Active,
Reserve, Landwehr, and Landsturm. At the age
of 17, a young man could be called upon to
serve in the Landsturm. At the age of 20, all
men began an obligatory 2 year period of
Active service in the Army, or 3 years for the
Artillery or Cavalry. Upon completion of this
service, a man would be liable to serve the
next 4 to 5 years in the Reserve. After the
Reserve period, the soldier-citizen was then
expected to serve in the Landwehr for the
next 11 years until the age of 45 when he was
then free from further military service.
Generally, the Reserve, Landwehr and
Landsturm were only mobilized during times
of war.
830
Click to Enlarge
Pionier
All Pionier Battalions of the German empire
in 1914 including the kingdom of Bayern
(Bavaria) wore a leather Pickelhaube with
German silver fittings and gilt chinscales.
After 1891 Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
wore a leather chinstrap with silver fittings.
Garde Pionier wore a Garde pattern eagle
Wappen, (front plate), all other contingents
wore their regular state Wappen in silver.
Click to Enlarge
A Pionier Einjhrig-Freiwilliger (One year

volunteer) wears an Eigetumsstck (private
purchase) Pickelhaube in this photograph.
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) who purchased
an Eigetumsstck Pickelhaube, normally wore
the helmet with chinscales when off the
garrison.
831
Click to Enlarge
Train (Supply)
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) in all Train
(Supply) Battalions of the German empire
wore a leather Jger pattern Tschako with gilt
Wappen (front plate) until 1903. Officers in
all Battalions, however, never wore the
Tschako and wore a Line Pickelhaube with
gilt fittings with curved mounted-troops
chinscales. In 1903 all Mannschaften adopted
the M1895 Pickelhaube with gilt fittings.
Garde Train wore a Garde pattern eagle
Wappen, (front plate) while all other
contingents wore their state Wappens in gilt.
Like the Feld Artillerie, curved mountedtroops chinscales were worn at all times right
into the Great War. This Mannschaften
(Other Ranks) Model 1895 example is marked
to Baden Train Abteilung 14.
For both Train above, and Dragoner (Dragoons) below, in 1894 the Infantry pattern
mounts for removable chinscales were adopted, however the chinscales remained
rounded. In 1914 special leather chinstraps with wider M1891 mounts were introduced
to replace the gilt chinscales in the field, however, their use appears to have been the
exception, as photographs as late as 1916 show chinscales still being worn by Artillerie,
Train, and Dragoner.
832
Dragoner (Dragoons)
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) and officers in
all Dragoner (Mounted Infantry) Regts of the
German empire wore a leather Pickelhaube
with gilt or German fittings dependant upon
the Regt. Although Line foot units such as
Infantry adopted the round spike base and
visor in 1867, Dragoner (Dragoons)
continued to use cruciform spike bases and
squared front visors. Garde Dragoner Regts
wore a Garde pattern eagle Wappen, (front
plate) while all other contingents wore their
state Wappens. The exception is HesseDarmstadt Dragoner as detailed below.
Curved mounted-troops chinscales were
worn at all times including into the Great
War.
A Preuen Dragoner with

M1894 Dragoner
Groherzoglich
Mecklenburgisches
833
Click to Enlarge
A Preuen Dragon
(Private) wearing an
Pickelhaube with brass

chinscales being worn in
1915.
Dragoner-Regt.
Nr.17 or 18.
elegant private purchase

Dragoner Pickelhaube.
Hesse-Darmstadt
Hessen Pickelhaube are unique in that all
ranks utilized a combination of a cruciform
spike base with rounded front visors in gilt or
German fittings dependant upon the
Regiment. Unlike other Pickelhaubes with
cruciform spike bases where the front arm on
the cruciform is typically 1/2 the length of the
other arms, on Hessen helmets the "arms" on
the cruciform spike base appear to be equal in
length. However, the front arm is actually a
tiny bit shorter and always orientated to the
front. Except for Hessen Pickelhaube, only
civilian Police and Fire Department
Pickelhauben utilized this unique combination.
Hessen officer Pickelhaube are also unique in
that in addition to the cruciform spike base
with a rounded front visors, Hessen officers
did not wear a Perlring (ring of pearls) around
the neck of the spike, and utilized rounded
studs on the cruciform spike base instead of
the typical officer stars.
834
Click to Enlarge
Military Pickelhaube with mis-matched front

visor & spike base
Only two patterns of military Pickelhaube
carry the unique combination of a visor and
spike base that do not match. A round front
visor with a cruciform spike base is found only
on Hessen Pickelhaube (above) and a squared
front visor with round spike base as worn by
the Wrttemberg Landjger Korps shown here
to the left who were a form of field police.
Click to Enlarge
No other military helmet utilized a spike base

and visor which did not match in shape.
Civil Helmets
Many other Pickelhaube existed
within the German Reich that were
not connected to the military.
These helmets are Police, Fire Dept,
Customs, or other civil
departments. These helmets carry
the combination of a round front
visor with a square spike base, or a
squared front visor with a round
spike base which are not found on
military Pickelhaube. This photo
shows a Zoll (Land Customs) official
wearing the standard Zoll
Pickelhaube with a round front
visor and a square spike base.
835
This photo shows a Berlin Police

officer wearing the standard Police
Pickelhaube with a round front visor
and a square spike base. These civil
helmets are very often incorrectly
identified as military. Civilian
Pickelhaube are an extensive subject
and individuals who are interested in
this form of Pickelhaube would be
better served by consulting
references specific to this area of
study.
1915/16
In accordance with the 1915 regulations
Pickelhaube would no longer would use
brass, silver, or Tombak. All issued
Pickelhaube would now use grey oxidized
steel fittings for all Regiments. For units
such as cavalry etc that wore brass or
Tombak chinscales, these were replaced
with a M91 leather chinstrap. The spike
was now removable and fit into a
corresponding bayonet-style lug on the
round spike base as shown on this Model
1915 Saxon Infantry Pickelhaube.
Click to Enlarge
Regiment/Battalion Uniform Details Charts

The following links will present charts listing the majority of Regiments and Battalions
of the Pre-1914 Imperial German Army (except Artillery and all Bavarian units) that
wore a leather Pickelhaube. Each chart will present specific details of the uniform and
helmet for each unit.
These charts will all open in a new window.
836
Artillerie (Artillery) Pickelhaube 1844 - 1916
In 1842, the King of Preuia (Prussia), Friedrich Wilhelm IV introduced the

spiked helmet for the majority of Preuen Foot Troops. The helmet was
almost 38 cm tall (15 inches) with a cruciform spike base and squared
front visor. From 1842 to 1844 the Preuen Artillerie (Prussian Artillery)
wore a line infantry Pickelhaube with spike which was replaced in 1844
with a Kugel (ball) to represent a cannon ball. From this point on, the
helmet was known as a "Kugelhelm". Like all Pickelhaube, the Artillerie
Kugelhelm underwent numerous modifications from 1844 to 1915. As the
history of the Artillerie Kugelhelm so closely matches that of the Preuen
Line Pickelhaube, for information on the evolution of the Preuen
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Kugelhelm please refer to the "Preuen
Pickelhaube Evolution" page in the main references. The Gunner in this
photograph poses beside his M1860 Artillerie Kugelhelm with cruciform
spike base and squared front visors.
The Wappen (front plate) and other characteristics on Artillerie Pickelhaube vary
widely and are best explained by the Imperial German Pickelhaube and Rank
Identification Guide available through the index. Additionally, for your convenience,
overall uniform descriptions for all Artillerie Regiments and Battalions (Except
Bavaria) are detailed (for 1914 only) in the "Uniform Details Charts" links at the top or
837
bottom of this page.

Below is an abbreviated list of contingents that adopted the Artillerie Pickelhaube after
1844:
1844 - Preuen (Prussia);

1846 - Hesse-Darmstadt;
1867 - Baden;
1867 - Oldenburg;
1867 - Sachsen (Saxony);
1871 - Wrttemberg; and
1916 - Bayern (Bavaria).
Click to Enlarge
1867 - 1871
In 1867 the cruciform spike base and squared
front visor that were worn on the M1843,
M1856, and M1860 Kugelhelm, were changed
to a rounded spike base and rounded front
visor. Several modifications done in 1867
proved to be unacceptable and resulted in the
Model 1871 shown here for the 1st, 2nd or
3rd Fuartillerie Regiments. The helmet was
still very tall, but now had features such as
rounded Kugel (ball top) base, a brass rear
spine, curved mounted-troops brass chinscales
for the Feld Artillerie (Field Artillery) and flat
brass chinscales for the Fuartillerie (Foot
Artillery). The Wappen (front plate) for all
contingents was now secured to the helmet
shell with screw posts. Garde Artillerie wore a
Garde pattern eagle Wappen, (front plate)
while all other contingents wore their state
Wappens in gilt.
838
1894
The Mannschaften
(Other Ranks)
Artillerie Kugelhelm
reached its final prewar shape in 1894
with the adoption of
the Foot-Troops
M1891 chinscale
mounts. The Feld
Artillerie (Field
Artillery) did not
adopt the leather
chinstrap in 1894
and wore curved
Mounted-Troops
brass chinscales at
all times (including
the field), right up to
1915.
Unlike the Infantry,
the Artillerie did not
adopt the rear vent
on the rear spine in
1894. However,
original examples
exist with the rear
spine vent,
indicating that at
some point
(probably 1915),
possibly to
standardize helmet
fittings, the rear
839
vent was adopted.
Unlike the Feld Artillerie (Field Artillery)

the Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery) did not
retain their flat brass chinscales and in
1894 adopted the leather M1891
chinstrap as did all Foot-Troops.
This photograph shows a Gunner in the
Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery) wearing the
leather Foot-Troops M1891 chinstrap
which was worn by Fuartillerie from
1894 to the end of the Pickelhaube era.
1897/1915
In 1897, all helmets in use at the time
were updated with a Reichs Kokarde. In
1915 leather chinstraps with wider
M1891 mounting ends were introduced
to replace the gilt chinscales for the
Friedens-Uniform (Future Peacetime
Uniform) as shown by the extremely wide
M1891 chinstrap mounts on this M1915
example. The "hook" on the mount is the
same thickness as M1891 chinscales and
only a mounted-troops leather strap will
fit on this example from 2. Lothringisches
Feldartill. - Regt Nr. 34.
840
Click to Enlarge
Many units (not all) were authorized to

wear a helmet Trichter and Haarbusch
(parade plume) on parade.
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) utilized
horse-hair in white, black, or red (for
musicians), while officers utilized white
or black yak-hair. The Kugel (ball) tops for
these helmets for all ranks, are
removable to enable a Trichter to be
mounted. This photograph shows a
Gunner in the Garde Feld Artillerie (Field
Artillery) wearing the M1895 Kugelhelm
with Trichter and Haarbusch (parade
plume).
Garde
Preuen (Prussian) Garde Kugelhelm carried
a distinctive swept-wing eagle Wappen (front
plate). Four basic patterns of Wappen can be
found on Garde Pickelhaube: issued, and
several levels of Eigentums-helm, (privately
purchased). All of the patterns are shown in
the "Pickelhaube Characteristics & Rank
Guide" available through the index. The
example shown here is a Model 1895
Preuen Garde Artillery Eigentums
Kugelhelm.
Click to Enlarge
841
Click to Enlarge
1871/1897 Officer
The Kugelhelm of commissioned officers
holding a rank from Lieutenant to Colonel
are all identical in features. As expected,
officer helmets were of a much higher
quality than the issued version and utilized
the "squared finger" liners until 1880 when
the internal leather sweatband and silk
skull-cap came into use. Regardless of the
unit, officer Kugelhelm share common
features such as: the undersides of visors
are lined, Officer Kokarden are carried, an
"egg & dart" Perlring was matched with
star-pattern spike base brads, and
chinscales were worn. This officer example
is from Preuen (Hannover) Field Artillery
Regt 10.
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) were allowed to purchase Eigentumsstck

(Private purchase) Kugelhelm for wear. Eigentumsstck Kugelhelm are a
much higher quality than the issued helmets as illustrated by this period
photo of a Wrttemberg Einjhrig-Freiwilliger (One-Year Volunteer)
wearing an Eigentumsstck Kugelhelm.
842

Stephen Case-Pall
843
Click to Enlarge
1915/16
Artillerie Kugelhelm would no longer
would use brass, silver, or Tombak. All
issued Artillerie Pickelhaube would now
use grey oxidized steel fittings for all
Regiments and the brass or Tombak
chinscales were replaced with a M91
leather chinstrap. The Kugel (balltop) was
now removable and fit into a
corresponding bayonet-style lug on the
round spike base. This Model 1915
example is marked to Hessen Feld Artillerie
Regt. Nr. 25, Darmstadt in the XVIII.
Armee-Korps. As on all Model 1915
helmets, the Kugel (ball) top is removable.
A gunner wears in this photograph

wears a M1915 Artillerie Kugelhelm with
grey-painted steel fittings and removabe
Kugel (balltop).
Uniform Details Charts

The following links will present charts listing the majority of Artillerie Regiments of the
Pre-1914 Imperial German Army (except Bavarian units). Each chart will present
specific details of the uniform and helmet for each unit. These charts will all open in a
new window.
844
Back to the Imperial German Pickelhaube Index
Bayern (Bavarian) Pickelhaube 1886 - 1916
The distinctive Bayern (Bavaria)

Raupenhelme can be traced back
to 1800 when the "Kasket Muster
1800" was introduced. The
Raupenhelme had a leather body
with a large wool or hair comb on
the top and was worn by all ranks
from 1800 to 1886 undergoing
numerous modifications. The
Raupenhelme is a vast and
complicated subject and readers
who wish more information are
urged to locate the book "Die
Helme der Kniglich Bayerischen
Armee" by Walter Seibold & Gerd
M. Schulz. Bayern was the last
contingent to adopt the
Pickelhaube and retained their
Raupenhelm until 1886.
845
1886/87
The Bayern Pickelhaube model
1886 was first worn by Bayern
officers on 01 April 1887. The
Infantry, Jger, and Artillery
were gradually equipped with
the Pickelhaube from 1887 to
1890 as shown by this NCO
wearing an issued M1887
Bayern Pickelhaube. The helmet
for all ranks appeared quite
similar: all ranks wore a large
Bayern Wappen (front plate)
with leaves intertwined in the
legs of the lions. The spike was
fluted and was secured on the
helmet with a cruciform spike
base and the front visor was
squared.
As with all Pickelhaube, officer and privately purchased helmets had different
characteristics in regards to the Perlring, brads for securing the spike base to the shell,
width of the visor trim, method for securing the chinscales, and the quality of the liner
etc. These characteristics are explained in detail in the Imperial German Pickelhaube
and Rank Identification Guide in the Pickelhaube reference section.
846
1896 Foot Troops

In 1896 Mannschaften (Other Ranks) for
the Foot-troops (Infantry) adopted a new
Pickelhaube similar to the 1895 Preuen
pattern. The cruciform spike base was
changed to rounded, and the squared
front visor was changed to the rounded
pattern. The Wappen (front plate) was
reduced dramatically in size and the laurel
leaves and vines intertwined in the legs of
the lions on the Wappen were removed.
The majority of contingents that wore the
Pickelhaube adopted the leather M1891
chinstrap in or around 1891 for Foot
Troops, but Bayern retained flat brass
chinscales for issued Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Pickelhaube until February 20 1914
when they were replaced by the model
1891 Prussian pattern leather chinstrap.
This Model 1886 only applied to
Mannschaften issued helmets; officer
Pickelhaube did not change from 1886 to
1914.
847
Click to Enlarge
Bayern Pattern M91 Chinstrap

When Bayern Reserve Troops adopted
the M1896 Foot troops Pickelhaube, a
large number of chinscales from the
M1886 Pickelhaube were converted
into leather chinstraps to fit the new
chinstrap mounts. Where the Line Foot
Troops had brass or silver squared
buckles, the initial Bayern Reserve
M1896 straps had single buckle with a
leather slide and different mounts
where it attached to the helmet lugs.
This handsome fellow is wearing an
early Bayern Reserve 1896 Foot Troops
Pickelhaube with the first pattern
Bayern Reserve M1896 chinstrap.
Mounted Troops
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) in all
mounted troops such as SchwereReiter (Bayern heavy cavalry)
Chevaulegers (Bayern Dragoons),
Feldartillery, and Train (supply) did not
adopt the M1896 Foot troops
Pickelhaube and continued to wear the
Model 1886 Pickelhaube with a square
front visor, cruciform spike base, and a
fluted spike top right up to 1915.
This exact Pickelhaube would have
been worn by Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) in all Schwere-Reiter (Bayern
heavy cavalry) Chevaulegers (Bayern
Dragoons), Artillery, and Train (supply)
848
units right up to 1915 (See the Artillery

marked example below). The soldier in
this photograph is a Private.
Bayern Feldartillerie
In 1886 the Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery) had adoped the 1896 Foot-troops Pickelhaube,
however, unlike other contingents who began in 1844 to adopt the Kugel (ball) top on
the spike to represent a cannon ball, Bayern Feldartillery (Field Artillery) continued to
wear the mounted troops helmet above and did not adopt the Preuen pattern Kugel
(ball) top for helmets until 31 March 1916.
Click to Enlarge
1896/1914
The mounted troops Pickelhaube underwent
modifications through the years: the convex
chinscales adopted the Model 1891 mounts
in 1896, the Reich's Kokarde was adpoted in
1897, and on 20 February 1914 the Wappen
(front plate) was reduced in size when the
laurel leaves and vines intertwined in the
legs of the lions were removed. The example
shown here is a Model 1896/1914 Bayern
(Bavaria) Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
Pickelhaube marked to 7 Feldartillerie. Regt. Prinz-Regent Luitpold.
849
1886/1914 Officer
The officers wore a helmet model 1886 of
which the plate was modified in 1914 by the
removal of the branches and bay-leaves on
the bottom. The officer's Pickelhaube had a
square front visor, cruciform spike base, and
a fluted spike top. As expected, officer's and
privately-purchased Pickelhaube were of a
much higher quality than the issued version
and utilized the "squared finger" liners until
1880 when the internal leather sweatband
and silk skull-cap came into use. This
particular example is from 1914 and is made
from fiber.
Click to Enlarge
The only difference between an Infantry officer's helmet and a Cavalry officer's helmet
(and Artillery until the adoption of the ball spike in 1916) , is that infantry chinscales
are flat, while Cavalry and Artillery chinscales are curved. However, on 20 February
1914 all Bayern officer Pickelhaube adopted rounded mounted-troop pattern chinscales.
A comparison of the painted Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Kokarde (left) to the officer
pattern (right) with a metal overlay.
850
1915/16
issued Bayern Pickelhaube would no longer
use brass or silver, but would now only have
grey oxidized steel fittings for all units. This
example is not made from leather, but is
actually an
Click to Enlarge
The Tschako
1854 - 1915
Prior to the introduction of the now-famous
Pickelhaube (spiked helmet) in 1842, the
most common form of helmet worn in
Imperial Germany was the tall cylindrical
piece of headgear called a Tschako (Shako).
The Tschako in some form, outfitted almost
all troops during the Napoleonic wars and
well into the 1800s. The photograph to the
right by Richard Kntel shows soldiers of the
Preuen Colbergsches Infanterie-Regiment
in 1811 wearing typical early Tschako of the
time.
With the adoption of the other forms of
helmets for the various arms after 1842
851
(Pickelhauben, Metalhelme etc) the Tschako

with a more refined shape, was eventually
worn only by Jger and Schtzen (light
infantry), Telegraph, Train (Supply), and
other small units.
Below is an abbreviated list of contingents that utilized some form of
Tschako after 1842:
1843 - Preuen Jger and Schtzen;

1844 to 1886 - Braunschweig (all foot units);
1862 - Seebataillon and Marine-Infanterie;
1863 to 1903 - Preuen Train (Supply);
1864 to 1903 - Baden Train (Supply);
1866 - Sachsen (Saxon) Jger and Schtzen;
1867 to 1903 - Sachsen (Saxon) Train (Supply);
1871 to 1903 - Hessian Train (Supply);
1871 to 1903 - Wrttemberg Train (Supply);
1895 - Bayern (Bavarian) Jger;
1899 - Preuen, Sachsen (Saxon), & Wrttemberg Telegraphen
(Telegraph);
1901 - Preuen & Sachsen (Saxon) Maschinengewehr (Machine Gun);
and
1901 - Bayern (Bavarian) Telegraphen (Telegraph).
852
1854
From 1843 to 1854 the Preuen
Jger and Schtzen wore a line
infantry Pickelhaube which was
replaced in 1854 with a cylindrical
Tschako. The M1854 Tschako was
very tall with brass chinscales and
visor trim on a squared front visor,
similar to the M1842 Pickelhaube. A
black horse Haarbusch (hair bush)
was worn at all times.
As shown in the illustration to the
left, rather than an eagle Wappen
(front plate) the Tschako carried two
vertical bars on the front for Line
Battalions. The two Garde Battalions
wore a large Garde star, and Jger
Battalions 1,2,5, and 6 wore a large
brass FWR cypher. Other contingents
that eventually adopted the Tschako
wore their own state Wappens.
Feldzeichen
Contingents that utilized
a Tschako wore a clothcovered wooden badge
called a "Feldzeichen" in
the state colors. The
photo to the right shows
most of the issued
Feldzeichen and opens
Click to Enlarge
853
with further
explanation.
Officer's Feldzeichen
Officer Feldzeichen were made from handembroidered bullion with velvet centers in
the contingent colors.
The example shown here is Preuen.
The bullion officer Feldzeichen was also
authorized to be worn by the two highest
level of NCOs, the Vizefeldwebel and
Feldwebel. The only other rank that could
wear the bullion Feldzeichen was the
Fhnrich (Officer-Candidate NCO) after
passing exams.
Eigentumsstck Feldzeichen
Eigentumsstck (privately purchased) Feldzeichen were normally of a looped
cord. Collectors often refer to the looped cord Feldzeichen as "NCO", when
there appears to be no proof or documentation that it has anything to do
with it being an NCO. It appears constantly in period photos of Jger with the
ranks of Private which indicates that looped cord Feldzeichen were just a
Eigentumsstck (private-purchase) "upgrade" and not dependant on rank.
854
1860
Click to Enlarge
In 1860 Preuen Jger and Schtzen

Battalions adopted a new Tschako which
was reduced in height, the brass
chinscales worn by Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) were replaced by a leather
chinstrap and the brass trim on the front
visor was removed, as the visor was no
longer made of leather, but of a pressed
composite material. From 1860 on, the
Haarbusch (hair bush) was no longer to
be worn in the field, only on parade. The
new Tschako carried the new eagle
Wappen (front plate) with the "MIT
GOTT FR KOENIG UND VATERLAND"
(With God For King And Fatherland)
Bandeau.
The Preuen Line Tschako eagle Wappen is much smaller than a Line Infantry
eagle, measuring only 94 mm from the tail feathers to the crown. The
Wappen on Tschako range widely and are detailed (for 1914 only) in the
"Uniform Details of all Jger and Schtzen Battalions" link at the top or
bottom of this page.
855
In 1860 Preuen Garde Battalions

adopted a new Garde star to
coincide with the adoption of the
introduction of the "MIT GOTT
FR KOENIG UND VATERLAND"
(With God For King And
Fatherland) Bandeau. The fellow
in this pre-1914 photograph is
from one of the Flieger Battalions
(Flying Troops).
To ventilate the M1860

Tschako, there was an
internal vent behind the
Feldzeichen which could be
opened or closed.
Click to Enlarge
856
The liners on issued M1860 Tschako were of

heavy leather with rounded "tongues"
perforated at the ends for a leather string to
adjust the fit. Contrary to some publications, this
liner was in use for issue helmets for the entire
life of the Tschako from 1843 to 1915.
Eigentumsstck (Private purchase) Tschako were
of a much higher quality and were utilized the
"squared finger" liners until 1880 when the
internal sweatband and skull-cap came into use.
Click to Enlarge
In 1866 Sachsen (Saxony)

adopted the Preuen M1852
Tschako for the Jger and
Schtzen Battalions. This was
short-lived, when a new pattern
specific to Sachsen was adopted
in 1867. More cap than helmet,
the Sachsen Tschako was
covered in black cloth with a flat
visor and closely resembled the
French or American Civil-War
Kepi worn at the time. The front
Wappen consisted of a Sachsen
Wappen backed with a star,
similar to other Sachsen units,
but with the the addition of a
Jger horn. At all times, even into
the great war, a black horse-hair
plume was worn on the left side
of the Tschako.
857
1888
In 1888 the Tschako shell received
several significant modifications. The
first was a reduction in height from the
older model. The second was the
addition of a single black-painted vent
on each side to aid in ventilation; as a
result of the new side vents, the
internal vent behind the cloth-covered
wooden "Feldzeichen" was removed.
The third, was the adoption of the
replacement of the threaded bolt for
retaining the leather chinstrap, to the
Infantry pattern M1887 loop and hook
system.
As shown by this M1888 example for
Preuen Jger Batl. 1 or 2, however,
the M1887 loop and hook system for
the chinstrap was not always adopted
and the old threaded bolt continued in
service.
858
Click to Enlarge
1892/1895/1897
Click to Enlarge
In 1892, units that wore the Tschako

received the infantry pattern Model 1891
posts for the leather chinstrap. In 1895 a
new model of Tschako was introduced,
which was shorter and more refined than
the M1888 with a shape similar to the
officer's Tschako but manufactured out of
leather. On the M1895, the screw-posts
that had been on the reverse of issued
Wappen on the M1895 were replaced by
loops. Like all other troops in the empire,
in 1897 all Tschakos were updated with
the new Reich's Kokarde, worn on the
right side.
To reduce the reflection of the

brass or silver fittings, all ranks
were issued with cloth berzug
(helmet cover) in 1892. Issued
covers utilized hooks while
privately purchased and officer
covers utilized stiffened brims.
In 1915 the issued covers were
modified to allow the leather
chinstraps to pass through the
sides.
For parades, Mannschaften and officers wore parade plumes inserted behind
the Feldzeichen. Mannschaften wore a Haarbusch (hair bush) parade plume
859
made from white or black horse hair, officers wore a Haarbusch made from
Yak hair. The color of the top "button" of the Haarbusch was also important,
for Jger NCOs it was painted white, for NCOs of the Garde-Schtzen-Batl. it
was painted black.
1914
Click to Enlarge
Beginning in 1914, all arms received

Ersatz-Helme (substitute helmets) until
helmet supplies could meet demand.
Ersatz Tschakos were made from rabbit
felt and by one manufacturer, oilcloth.
Surviving original examples are found
with no front visor trim as shown by this
quite rare Ersatz Model 1899 Preuen Filz
Tschako (Shako) marked to TelegraphenBataillon Nr.2. The Tschako has the
identical parts as the leather Model 1899,
with German silver Wappen, M91 pattern
posts & chinstrap, blackened air vents on
the sides and a standard Preuen cloth
Feldzeichen. As with all original Filz
Tschako, there is no trim on the front or
rear visors.
860
Occasionally Ersatz Filz Tschako

were blackened to resemble the
leather versions. There appears to
have been two different patterns:
black felt which appear matt and
unreflective in photos as in the
example shown here, and
lacquered felt Tschako, which have
a shine but lack the distinctive sewn
top of the leather versions.
1915
issued Tschako would no longer use brass or
silver, but would now only have grey oxidized
steel fittings for all Battalions.
Click to Enlarge
Gallery
861
Braunschweigisches
Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92
Bayern (Bavaria)
Eisenbahn, Flieger, or
Telegraphen
Kurhessisches
Jger-Batl.Nr.11
Model 1860
Hannoversches
Wrttemberg 3rd Komp

of Telegraphen-Bataillon
862
Preuen Line Jger
Jger-Batl.Nr.10
Preuen
Garde-Jger-Batl.
Ersatz Filz
Preuen Jger-Batl.
Nr.4
M1915
Preuen Jger
Eagle Wappen Chest Feathers

From 1860 to 1895 the eagle Wappen on Jger Mannschaften Tschako
had standard overlapping chest feathers. In 1895 one manufacturer
changed the chest feathers so they appear to meet in the center, like
fingers, touching.
Click to Enlarge
863
It appears, however, that other manufacturers continued to produce Jger

Mannschaften Tschako Wappen with the pre-1895 overlapping chest
feathers. This unique configuration is found on issued Jger Tschako but is
generally not found on private purchase or officer Line Jger Wappen. This
unique feather configuration carried over to the M1915 Tschako as the photo
illustrates.

Stephen Case-Pall
Officer's
M1871/1899
The officer's pattern Tschako first appeared in 1871 and was of a much
higher quality thatn the issued model as illustrated by this 1915 dated
photo of Lt. Paul Schaff wearing the officer's Tschako. The most noticeable
differences between an officer's and an issued Tschako, are that all officer
Tschako carry brass or silver chinscales dependant upon the Regiment, are
covered in a fine, black wool, have very high quality 94 mm Wappen with
voided crowns, and have a bullion embroidered Feldzeichen. Internally,
officer Tschako utilized the "squared finger" liners until 1880 when the
internal leather sweatband and silk skull-cap came into use.
864
Landwehr
The Landwehr originally wore a Pickelhaube from 1842 to 1860, but
adopted the M1860 pattern Tschako in 1860. Instead of the Preuen
eagle Wappen, the Landwehr wore a large stamped metal plate painted in
Preuen colors with a Landwehr cross superimposed on the plate. This
was worn until 1881 when the Landwehr once again adopted the
Pickelhaube. Officers wore the identical Wappen with a bullion the wire
Preuen Feldabzeichen and brass chinscales on the Tschako. NCOs were
allowed to wear the bullion wire Preuen Feldabzeichen if they were
Unteroffizier mit Portepee (NCOs with the Officer's sword knot). Private
purchase did not allow men under those ranks to wear wire bullion.
According to Kraus (see references) vol. I p. 468.due to shortages of
Pickelhauben in 1914 when war was declared, Landwehr Infantry Regts 8,
24, 39, 47, and 93 were initially issued the old Tschako with Landwehr
plate, which were later replaced by Pickelhauben.
865
Garde Landwehr
The Garde Landwehr wore a similar plate to the Landwehr plate above,
but with a Garde star under a smaller Landwehr cross. The Garde
Landwehr also adopted the Pickelhaube in 1881.
1914 issue to the Landsturm

In 1914, the old Tschakos of the Jger,
Landwehr, Train, etc were dusted off and
issued to the Landsturm in order to meet
the needs of mobilization. In 1916 the
Tschakos were finally retired when the
Landsturm finally adopted the
Pickelhaube.
866
Click to Enlarge
Like Preuen, other contingents also dusted off the old Tschakos and issued
them to their Landsturm troops in 1914.
M1860
M1860
Preuen 1914 Landsturm Baden 1914 Landsturm
867
Hessen 1914 Landsturm

(photo courtesy
Thomas Helmlick)
A very interesting photo that shows

that the German Army was not as
concerned with extra holes on helmets
as collectors of the 21st century are.
This view of a Landsturm soldier clearly
shows the two holes on either side of
the Tschako plate on his M1860
Tschako where a Jger eagle Wappen
once resided.
The Tschako as a form of military headdress ended with the introduction of

the famous German Stahlhelm in 1916, although it continued to be worn in
non-combat areas to the end of the war.
Krassier (Heavy Cavalry)
Metalhelme 1843 - 1915
The distinctive steel helmets of the Preuen Krassier and the Sachsen
(Saxon) Schweres Reiter first appeared in 1843 for the Preuen Krassier,
replacing the tall leather helmet that was worn up to that time. The M1843
Metalhelme (a helmet made from polished steel or Tombak) was large and
heavy with a pronounced stepped-brim over the forehead and a distinctive
"lobster tail" neck guard, both of which served to protect the wearer from
sword blows.
868
The helmets were made from

polished steel with brass fittings,
or Tombak (an alloy made from a
combination of copper and zinc)
with
German
silver
fittings.Convex brass chinscales
were worn by all ranks and were
secured to the helmet with a
3cm threaded bolt with a brass
head. The chinscales did not
hook together and required the
use of the small leather strap
behind the chinscales to keep
them together when not worn
under
the
chin.
The line eagle Wappen (front
plate) measured 125mm and
carried a "FR" on the eagle's
chest for most Regiments, except
Leib-Krassier-Regt.
Groer
Kurfrst who used the old
Brandenburg eagle Wappen. For
further details on the uniforms
worn by all Regiments, please
see the "Uniform Details for all
Krassier Regiments" at the top
or bottom of this page.
The majority of Krassier regiments wore polished steel helmets with gilt
fittings. The following Regiments wore Tombak helmets with silver fittings
with the exception of the chinscales, which were also Tombak:
Regt. der Gardes du Corps;

Garde-Krassier-Regiment; and
869
Krassier-Regiment Kaiser Nikolas I. von Ruland (Brandenburgisches)

Nr.6;
Kgl.Schs (Saxon) Garde-Reiter and Kgl.Schs. Karabiner-Regiment in
1876. Prior to this date, Sachsen (Saxon) Garde-Reiter wore a M1867
leather Raupenhelm.
1853
1860
In 1853 the long threaded bolts for securing the chinscales were replaced by
threaded screws and the new chinscales hooked together in the center with
a small ball and corresponding hole when not worn under the chin. In 1860 a
Bandeau was added to the Wappen with the motto "MIT GOTT FR KOENIG
UND VATERLAND" (With God For King And Fatherland). Older plates that
were void of the Bandeau, were modified by having a Bandeau soldered to
the front to make the plates comply with the regulations.
From 1843 to 1860 the Garde du Corps and Garde Krassier wore a large
silver Garde pattern Wappen on the helmet, adding the date "1860" in that
year. Please see Krassier Plate 1 for an illustration of the various helmet
Wappen.
870
1862
1867
Further modifications in 1862
reduced the Krassier Metalhelme
shell and spike in height by approx. 2
cm, the front and rear visors were
reduced somewhat in length, and the
width of the trim around the front
and rear visors was reduced from 8
mm to 5 mm. These modifications
resulted in the M1862 Metalhelme.
The example shown here is an issued
Model 1862 Mannschaften (Other
Ranks) Krassier Metalhelme which
has the 1853 threaded screw posts,
curved brass chinscales, and the
distinctive raw metal edge between
the front and rear visors. In 1867 a
small strip of brass or German silver
dependant upon the Regiment, was
placed along the bottom of the Click to Enlarge
helmet joining the front and rear
visors and the overall shape of the
helmet was reduced slightly in size.
This modification became the M1867
Metalhelme.
871
Like the M1843 Metalhelme, the liner of the

issued M1862 Metalhelme was of heavy leather
with rounded "tongues" perforated at the ends
for a leather string to adjust the fit. Contrary to
some publications, this liner was in use for issue
helmets for the entire life of the Metalhelme
from 1843 to 1915. The liner was secured at the
sides with the posts of the chinscales, and at
the front and rear by spilt brads which passed
through the liner and the helmet shell.
Click to Enlarge
1889
In 1889 the Preuen Krassier
Mannschaften
(Other
Ranks)
Metalhelme received a rounded
front visor and was reduced in
height and volume to make it less
cumbersome. Like most helmets,
this helmet was updated in 1897
with a Reichs Kokarde. Note the
threaded screw-posts for the
chinscales that were utilized prior
to 1894. Note that like all helmets,
this example was updated in 1897
with the new Reich's Kokarde,
worn on the right side of the
Click to Enlarge
Metalhelme.
872
This photo shows the raised ridge

reinforcement carried on all
issued Metalhelme until 1889.
After this date, only officer
Metalhelme retained the ridge to
strengthen the shell, however,
this option was available on
Eigentums-helm, (also known as
Extra-helm or Eigetumsstck)
which were Metalhelme that
were privately purchased by an
individual.
A comparison of the front of

the M1862 to a M1889. Note
the stepped visor on the
M1862 was replaced by a
rounded visor in 1889. Also
note the dramatic difference in
height.
Click to Enlarge
873
A comparison of the M1862 to

a M1889. The massive size of
the M1862 compared to the
M1889 is evident in this
photograph.
Both
these
helmets are approximately a
size 56. On M1862 helmets and
prior, the space between front
and rear visors is blank as this
photo illustrates. In 1867, the
brass or silver trim that went
around the visors, was placed
along this blank spot.
Click to Enlarge
1894/1897
In 1894 the Preuen
Krassier Mannschaften
(Other
Ranks)
Metalhelme
received
the Model 1891 posts
for chinscales to replace
the threaded screwposts. At 36mm, the
M91 pattern chinscales
on M94 Metalhelme are
considerably wider at
their
widest
point
compared to standard
Artillery, Train, and
other Cavalry rounded
chinscales which are
only 25mm wide at the
widest
point.
874
In 1897 the all helmets

were updated with the
new Reich's Kokarde,
worn on the right side of
the Metalhelme; and the
State Kokarden was
moved to the left side of
the helmet.
Click to Enlarge
The Regt. der Gardes du Corps and

the Garde-Krassier-Regiment were
the only two Regiments entitled to
wear a removable eagle on parade.
On all other occasions, a spike was
worn. The parade eagle was
mounted to the skull of the helmet
with a large oval brass nut and
threaded bolt which was soldered to
the eagle base. This example is a
Model 1894 Preuen Krassier
Mannschaft
(Other
Ranks)
Metalhelme to parade for the Garde
Krassier Regt., Berlin Garde - Korps.
The helmet is manufactured from
Tombak with German silver fittings.
This example carries the removable
M91 chinscales, also in Tombak.
Sachsen
(Saxon)
Schweres
Reiter
The Sachsen (Saxon) Schweres Reiter were entitled to wear a removable lion
on parade after 1876, when the four Reiter regiments were reorganized. Two
Regiments were equipped with Tombak Metallhelme: Kgl.Schs. GardeReiter-Regiment (which retained its name), and Sachsen Reiter Regt N. 3
which was named Kgl.Schs. Karabiner-Regiment. Sachsen Reiter Regts 1 & 2
875
became Kgl. Schs. Husaren-Regts Nr.18 & 19 and were equipped with
Pelzmtzen (Busbies).
Officer's wore a cloverleaf
spike base with officer
Kokarden
while
the
wore a "football" shaped base
with Mannschaften Kokarden.
When
the
Mannschaften
helmet changed from a
stepped-visors in 1889, officer
Metalhelme
retained
the
stepped
visor.
Officer
Metalhelme also have finer
edging
around
the
circumference of the helmet,
and utilized the "squared
finger" liners until 1880 when
the internal sweatband and
skull-cap came into use.
On 15 May 1899 the shape of
the Krassier officer's helmet
Photo used with the kind permission of Brian was changed to the final and
Hilderman
more elegant appearance with
a domed skull and longer neck.
This photograph shows Artur
von Klingspor; (1878-1904)
Krassier-Regt. von Seydlitz
(4.Magdeburgisches)
Nr.7
wearing an officer's M1889/99.
876
1915
In accordance with the 1915
regulations steel helmets no longer
would use brass, silver, or Tombak.
Preuen Krassier (Other Ranks)
Metalhelme were steel with grey
oxidized steel fittings for all
Regiments and the brass or
Tombak chinscales were replaced
with a M91 leather chinstrap.
Notice that the Model 1915
helmets still retained the unique
'football' shaped spike base and
Krassier pattern spike.
Click to Enlarge
Kokarden
Shown above are three of the different patterns of Preuen (Prussian)
Kokarden worn on the Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Metalhelme.
From 1843 to 1857 the Kokarde was made of painted leather, or wool. In
1857 the stamped metal Kokarde was introduced which measured an
impressive 73 mm. In 1860 the size was reduced to 63 mm, which can be
found with both the small-hole (pre-1891) and with the larger hole for the
M1891 chinscale mount. Model 1915 Metalhelme are found with both the
877
large 63 mm M1891 Metalhelme Kokarde and the standard M1891

Pickelhaube pattern Kokarde.
Jger
Metalhelme 1843 - 1915
zu
The distinctive black steel helmets of the Preuen

Jger zu Pferde (Mounted Dispatch Rider) first
appeared in 1895 with the raising of the
Meldereiter
Abteilung
(Dispatch
Rider
Detachments). The Meldereiter Metalhelme was
made from blackened steel with a large Garde
Wappen with gilt fittings, a stepped front visor, and
a distinctive "lobster tail" neck guard which came to
a point. The spike base for all ranks was a cloverleaf
design and the Krassier Model 1894 posts for
chinscales were worn. In 1897 the Preuen line
eagle Wappen was adopted and all helmets were
updated with the new Reich's Kokarde, worn on the
right side of the Metalhelme. Like leather
Pickelhaube, Eigentums-helm (privately purchased)
Metalhelme were higher quality than issued
helmets with enhanced liners for comfort.
878
Pferde
Photo
Robert Scott
used
with
the
kind
permission
of
1905
In 1905 the Meldereiter were formed into 3 Jger zu Pferde Regiments.
The "combined Jger-Regiment zu Pferde" which had been formed in
1901 from Meldereiter Squadrons from various Armee-Korps, became
Regiment
Knigs-Jger
zu
Pferde
Nr.
I.
in
1905.
The newly formed Regiments were outfitted with the new Model 1905
Jger zu Pferde Metalhelme. The 1905 Metalhelme was blackened steel as
was it's predecessor, but the fittings changed from brass to German silver
except for tthe chinscales which were Tombak (an alloy made from a
combination of copper and zinc). The new helmet carried a Dragoner
pattern eagle Wappen with upswept wings. This change to a Dragoner
pattern eagle may have taken some time, as helmets with silver fittings
that retain the Preuen line pattern eagle do exist.
Regiments 1 to 4 wore a Koller with a blackened steel helmet with silver
879
fittings and Tombak chinscales. Interestingly, Jger zu Pferde Regiments 5

and 6 wore silver fittings but carried blackened chinscales. For further details
on the uniforms worn by all Regiments, please see the "Uniform Details for
all Jger zu Pferde Regiments" at the top or bottom of this page.
Jger
zu
Pferde
Regt
Nr.
7
Numerous references contradict the colors utilized by Jger zu Pferde Regt
Nr. 7. Some references claim that Jger zu Pferde Regt Nr. 7 wore a
blackened steel helmet with silver fittings and Tombak chinscales while
others claim this Regt wore all Tombak fittings. I am unable to find a
definitive answer.
1905
The example shown here is an
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Model 1905
Eigentums-helm (privately purchased)
Metalhelme for Jger zu Pferde
Regiments 1 to 4. the body is blackened
steel with German silver fittings except
for the curved M1894 pattern chinscales
which are Tombak. The Kokarden are the
standard 63 mm Krassier pattern for
Mannschaften (Other Ranks). Externally,
the Metalhelme is identical to an issued
example, except that it is extremely light. Click to Enlarge
880
The liner of issued M1905 Jger zu Pferde

Metalhelme was of heavy leather with rounded
"tongues" perforated at the ends for a leather
string to adjust the fit. Eigentums-helm
Metalhelme like this example, however, utilized
the "squared finger" liners or the officer
pattern internal sweatband and skull-cap. This
Jger zu Pferde example also utilizes screwposts for the back of the Eagle Wappen,
compared to loops on issued examples.
Click to Enlarge
Jger zu Pferde Regiments 8 to 13

Regiments 8 to 13 wore only the M07/10
Feldrock with Dragoner M1895 Pickelhaube
with gilt fittings identical in all respects to
this issued example marked to Dragoner
Regt..
Nr.
14.
*Note* It appears there was some sporadic
issuing of blackened steel helmets with gilt
fittings to these last Regiments, as the
occasional example with gilt fittings marked
to JzP Regt. Nr. 8 will surface.
Click to Enlarge
Officers
Officers wore a Metalhelme that closely resembled the Krassier officer
helmet, but with a Dragoner Wappen. Officer helmets are found blackened
like the issued Trooper's Metalhelme, or polished steel like Krassier officer
with officer Kokarden. Officers in Regiments 1 to 7 wore a blackened (or
polished) steel helmet with silver fittings and Tombak chinscales, while
officers in Regiments 8 to 13 wore the same helmet with gilt fittings. Officer
881
Metalhelme also have finer edging around the circumference of the helmet
and utilized the "squared finger" liners until 1880 when the internal
sweatband and skull-cap came into use.
Click to Enlarge
1915
steel helmets no longer would use brass,
silver, or Tombak. Preuen Jger zu Pferde
(Other Ranks) Metalhelme remained
blackened steel but now carried grey
oxidized steel fittings for all Regiments and
the brass or Tombak chinscales were
replaced with a M91 leather chinstrap.
Like all 1915 helmets, the spike was now
removable and fit into a corresponding
bayonet-style lug on the round spike base
as shown on this Model 1915 example
made by "Helbing v.Sackewitz" in 1916.
A comparison of
the M1905 to a
M1915. The shape
and
features
stayed essentially
the same during
the transition from
German silver to
grey steel fittings.
Note
the
removable spike
on the M1915.
Click to Enlarge
882
Click to Enlarge
A comparison of the M1905 to a M1915. Model 1915 Metalhelme are

found with both the large 63 mm M1891 Metalhelme Kokarde or the
standard M1891 Pickelhaube pattern Kokarde.
Ersatz-Helme
(substitute
helmets)
All arms received Ersatz-Helme (substitute helmets) as the war progressed
until helmet supplies could meet demand. Jger zu Pferde Ersatz Metalhelme
appear pressed from a single sheet steel with artificial rivets on the rear and
spike base. These helmets are normally marked only to 8JzP. Interestingly,
these Jger zu Pferde Ersatz helmets carry normal line eagle Wappen and not
the Dragoner pattern Wappen.
Ulanen
Tschapka 1843 - 1915
(Lancers)
883
The Ulanen (Lancers) Tschapka with its

distinctive square top first appeared in
1808 when Preuen introduced Ulanen
(Lancer) Regiments to emulate the
Polish lancers as did many nations;
especially after the Polish Lancer's
performance at Waterloo in 1815. The
M1843 Tschapka was a tall helmet with
a squared top whcih was secured with
gilt chinscales. The neck of the upper flat
portion on the Tschapka (called a
"mortar board" by English collectors)
was permanently covered with a colored
cloth Paraderabatte (parade rabatte).
The Paraderabatten colors were specific
to each Regiment but were trimmed in
white for Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
and silver bullion for officers. The
Fangschnur (securing cord) were
attached to the top of the Tschapka with
a toggle for Mannschaften and a hook
for officer and private purchase.
Wappen
and
Feldzeichen
Contingents that utilized a Tschapka wore a variety of state Wappen (front
plates) with their own specific Feldzeichen, which was a cloth-covered
wooden badge in the state colors worn on top of the Tschapka. The Wappen
on Tschako range widely and are detailed (for 1914 only) in the "Uniform
Details of all Ulanen Regiments" links at the top or bottom of this page.
Below is a list of contingents that utilized some form of Tschapka after 1842:
884
1842 - Preuen;
1864 - Bayern
(Bavaria);
1867 - Sachsen
(Saxony); and
1871
Wrttemberg.
Click to Enlarge
Click to Enlarge
1867
In 1867 Preuen Ulanen Regiments
adopted a new Tschapka which was
significantly reduced in height and
volume. The new Tschapka had the
eagle Wappen (front plate) moved
from the neck of the top to the front
of the shell. The new 1860 Wappen
now carried the "MIT GOTT FR
KOENIG UND VATERLAND" (With God
For King And Fatherland) Bandeau.
The Preuen Line Tschapka eagle
Wappen is much smaller than a Line
Infantry eagle, measuring only 95 mm
from the tail feathers to the crown.
This example is from Ulanen - Regt.
Hennigs
von
Treffenfeld
(Altmrkisches) Nr. 16.
The colored cloth Paraderabatte (parade rabatte) around the neck of the top
flat portion of the Tschapka on the M1867 was now removable. It was held in
place with brass hooks and was worn for parades only with the Parade bush.
On the Ulanen Regt Nr. 16 Tschapka above, the cloth Paraderabatte (parade
rabatte) around the neck is blue and trimmed in white.
885
The Ulanen Tschapka liner was unique, in

having squared fingers which met in the
center to form almost a closed circle. The
liner of the issued Ulanen Tschapka
remained essentially the same the entire
life of the helmet, from 1842 to 1915.
Click to Enlarge
A side view of an issued

Model 1867 Tschapka for
Ulanen Regt Nr. 1. Note
how the back of the
helmet is designed so that
it curves down around the
wearer's skull. This unique
shape is common with
Tschapka
from
all
contingents
for
both
Mannschaften
(Other
Ranks)
and
private
purchase
to
include
officer's.
Note also that unlike a
Pickelhaube, on original
issued Tschapka, the liner
is sewn on through the
outside.
Click to Enlarge
886
It is worth mentioning here

the unique way a Tschapka
visor is attached. To
explain, a Tschapka visor
was sewn onto the shell in
an upward position with
the outside surface of the
visor facing the outside
surface of the front of the
shell. When the sewing of
the visor was complete,
the visor was then folded
down and secured in place
with front visor trim, to
produce a very neat
'hidden' seam.
1889
In 1889 a new model of Tschapka was
introduced. The flat top was reduced in
size substantially from the M1867 and
now measured on average 20 cm
diagonally. An additional modification,
was the addition of two holes in the
neck to aid in ventilation. As with all
helmets in service at the time, this
Model 1889 Preuen Mannschaften
(Other Ranks) Garde - Ulanen - Regt.
Tschapka was updated with the new
Reich's Kokarde in 1897 to be worn on Click to Enlarge
the right side of the Tschapka.
887
A
side-by-side
comparison
of
the tops of an
issued
M1867
(left) and an
issued
M1889
(right). The top
on a Model 1867
measured
on
average
an
amazing 26 cm
diagonally, while
the top on a
Model
1889
measured
on
average 20 cm
diagonally.
Click to Enlarge
Wappen
Ulanen issued line eagle
Wappen only measure
95mm from the bottom of
the tail feathers to the top
of the crown compared to
the
M1860
Infantry
Wappen at 115mm. Issued
Sachsen
(Saxony)
and
Wrttemberg
Tschapka
Click to Enlarge
Wappen
were
also
considerably smaller than
the line Infantry versions.
Only Bayern (Bavaria) utilized the same size Wappen on both Tschapka and
Pickelhauben. Officer Tschapka, however, did not utilize reduced size
888
Wappen, but wore normal Line Infantry size voided-crown Wappen.

The issued M1860 Ulanen eagle Wappen was essentially a small M1860
Infantry Wappen,with screw-posts and similar characteristics in that there
are only two tail feathers on either side below the chest and the gap
between the wings and the legs is not voided. Beginning in 1895, some (not
all) manufacturer's began voiding the area between the legs as shown on the
two M1895 examples above, but some continued to manufacture Ulanen
eagle Wappen in the M1860 configuration.
Fangschnur
The Fangschnur (securing cord) was
attached to the top of the Tschapka with a
toggle for Mannschaften and a hook for
officer
and
private
purchase.
Click to Enlarge
The Fangschnur were then lopped around

the neck of the wearer which prevented
loss of the helmet in battle. The photo to
the left shows the correct manner of
wearing the Fangschnur around the neck
with the tassles looped onto a shoulder
button.
Fangschnur were white for Mannschaften (Other Ranks), State colors &
white for NCOs, and silver bullion with State colors for officers. For example:
NCO Fangschnur for Preuen NCOs was white & black, Bayern NCOs white
with blue, Sachsen white with green, and Wrttemberg white with red.
Officer Fangschnur for Preuen officers were silver with black, Bayern
officers silver with blue, Sachsen silver with green, and Wrttemberg silver
with red.
1894
-1897
889
In 1894 the Tschapka received the infantry pattern Model 1891 posts for the
chinscales which became the Model 1894 Tschapka. In 1895 the screw-posts
on the reverse of issued Wappen were replaced with loops and in 1897 all
helmets were updated with the new Reich's Kokarde to be worn on the right
side.
Officers
Officer Tschapka were of a much higher
quality as illustrated by this period photo
of an officer wearing the officer's
Tschapka. Officer Tschapka utilized the
"squared finger" liners until 1880 when
the internal sweatband and skull-cap
came into use. The Wappen on the front
of the Tschako carried voided crowns and
for Preuen Ulanen the Line eagle
Wappen was the same siize as a Line
Pickelhaube. The most noticeable
differences between an officer's and an
issued Tschako, are that all officer
Tschapka utilize rosettes to secure the Photo used with the kind permission
chinscales, have a finer front visor trim, of Thomas Brackmann of Imperial
German Photographs
and have an bullion embroidered
Feldzeichen.
Gallery
890
Model 1867 Tschapka Garde-Ulanen-Regt.

from a Line Ulanen Regt Nr.1, 2, or 3
Line
Regt
2.
Hannoversches
Knigs-Ulanen-Regt.
Kgl.
Ulanen-Regt.2.
(1.
Hannoversches)
Ulanen-Regt.
Hannoversches
Ulanen-
891
Ulanen
Schs.
Nr.13
Regt. Nr.14
Nr.17, 18, or 19
To reduce the reflection of the brass or

silver fittings, all ranks were issued with
cloth berzug (helmet cover) in 1892.
Issued covers utilized hooks while
privately purchased and officer covers
utilized a stiffened front brim. In 1915
the issued covers were modified to allow
the leather chinstraps to pass through
the sides.
1914
Ersatz-Helme (substitute helmets)
until helmet supplies could meet
demand. Ulanen Tschapka are found
made from Eisenblech (tin plate) or
from rabbit felt as shown by this
Preuen
Ersatz
Filz-Tschapka.
Only on these two patterns of Ersatz
Tschapka was the squared finger liner
not utilized. Ersatz Tschapka utilized
rounded finger leather liners very
similar to a standard Pickelhaube.
Surviving original felt examples have
metal visor trim.
892
Click to Enlarge
1915
issued Tschapka would no longer use
brass or silver. The new model of
Tschapka utilized a removable top. The
top was now made from Eisenblech (tin
plate) and utilized a large bayonet-style
lug for securing the top to the shell.
Ulanen Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
Tschapka would now have only have grey
oxidized steel fittings for all Regiments
and the brass chinscales were replaced
with a M91 leather chinstrap.
M1915
Friedens-Uniform
The leather M-91 pattern chinstrap
and 1917 date identifies this
Wrttemberg Tschapka as being
made for the M1915 FriedensUniform
(Future
Peacetime
Uniform).
Click to Enlarge
Husaren (Light Cavalry)

Pelzmtze 1843 - 1915
893
The colorful uniforms of the Husaren

(Light Cavalry) first appeared in 1721
when a blue Kollet (a waist-length jacket
with tails) with rows of ornamental
braiding on the chest was introduced with
a tall, cylindrical piece of headgear called
a "Tschako" which was common to most
troops in the Napoleonic period. Preuen
Husaren emulated the famous Hungarian
light cavalry, as Husar and Attila are
actually Hungarian words which were
adopted by many nations, Preuen
included.
Line and Leib Husaren Regiments wore a
tall cylindrical helmet called
"Flgelmtze" (winged cap) which also
coincided with a new uniform known as
the Attila. The "Flgelmtze" remained in
use for Line and Leib Regiments until 1850
when it was replaced by Pelzmtze
already in use by the Garde Husaren
Regiment.
1843
1850
In 1843 the Garde Husaren Regiment were first introduced with a haircovered form of headdress called a Pelzmtze (literally a fur cap) which is
commonly referred to as a Busby. *Note* The plural of Pelzmtze is
Pelzmtzen.
The "Flgelmtze" remained in use for Line and Leib Regiments until 1850
when it was replaced by Pelzmtze already in use by the Garde Husaren
894
Regiment. These two Husar from the Leib-Garde Husaren Regt (Potsdam)
Garde-Korps show the exceptional height of the M1843 Pelzmtze.
Photo used with the kind permission of Photo courtesy of Sergio Semino
of
militaria-online.de.
Below is an abbreviated list of contingents that utilized some form of
Pelzmtze after 1843:
1843 - Preuen Garde Husaren;

1850 - All other Preuen Husaren Regts;
1867 - Braunschweig; and
1876 - Sachsen (Saxony).
895
1860
In 1860 Preuen Husaren Regiments adopted a new Pelzmtze. All Line
Regiments carried a "wave" pattern Bandeau (ribbon) in German silver or
brass that dipped down in the center, with the motto "MIT GOTT FR
KOENIG UND VATERLAND" (With God For King And Fatherland). The
Preuen Garde Husaren Regt at this time adopted a new Wappen (front
plate) which also incorporated the new Fatherland motto and the date
"1860".
The Wappen (insignia) on Pelzmtze range widely and are best illustrated
in the color Husaren plates at the top or bottom of this page.
The color of the Kolpak (cloth bag) which hangs on the left side of the
Pelzmtze was also specific to the Regiment. Please see the "Uniform
Details for all Husaren Regiments" link at the top or bottom of this page
for details.
896
Feldzeichen
Contingents that utilized a Pelzmtze wore a variety of Feldzeichen (a
cloth-covered wooden badge in the state colors) which was worn on top
of the Pelzmtze. The following Contingents had Husaren Regiments in
their order of battle:
Braunschweig
Preuen
Sachsen (Saxony)
The original Feldzeichens in the photo to the right are in the same order
897
as the list above.

Eigentumsstck
Feldzeichen
Eigentumsstck (privately purchased) Feldzeichen were normally of a looped
cord. Collectors often refer to the looped cord Feldzeichen as "NCO", when
there appears to be no proof or documentation that it has anything to do
with it being an NCO. It appears constantly in period photos of Ulanen and
Husaren with the ranks of Private which indicates that looped cord
Feldzeichen were just a Eigentumsstck (private-purchase) "upgrade" and
not dependant on rank.
898
Officer's
Feldzeichen
Officer Feldzeichen were made from handembroidered bullion in silver (Preuen and
Sachsen) or gold (Braunschweig) with
velvet centers in the contingent colors.
The example shown here is Preuen.
The bullion officer Feldzeichen was also
authorized to be worn by the highest level
of NCOs, the Wachtmeister and
Vizewachtmeister. The only other rank that
could wear the bullion Feldzeichen was the
Fhnrich (Officer-Candidate NCO) after
passing exams.
1894
In 1894 the Pelzmtze received
the infantry pattern Model
1891 posts for the chinscales
and in 1897 all Pelzmtzen
were updated with the new
Reich's Kokarde to be worn on
the
right
side.
Issued
Pelzmtze were a very tight
black-dyed seal hide.
Click to Enlarge
899
The seal hide of issued (and

often privately-purchased)
Pelzmtze was stretched
over a frame of bamboo on
the upper half and of
corrugated stiffened burlap
on the lower half. The
stiffened burlap can be
found in a variety of colors,
such as green, black, white
etc.
Click to Enlarge
The liners of issued Pelzmtzen

were very distinctive being
heavy leather with pointed
"tongues" perforated at the
ends for a leather string to
adjust the fit. This unique
pattern of liner was used in
issued Pelzmtze for the entire
life of the helmet from 1850 to
1915.
Click to Enlarge
900
Fangschnur
The Fangschnur (securing cord)
was attached to the top of the
Pelzmtze with a toggle for
Mannschaften and a hook for
officer and (often) private
purchase.
The Fangschnur were then
looped around the neck of the
wearer which prevented loss of
the Pelzmtze in battle. When
not around the neck, the
Fangschnur were braided into
loops and hung on the right
side of the Pelzmtze as show
in the photo to the left.
Click to Enlarge
The toggle and slide on Fangschnur were white for Mannschaften (Other
Ranks), state colors & white for NCOs. On the NCO Fangschnur example
shown above, the white & black toggle and slide is for Preuen NCOs. All
officers wore silver bullion with flecking in their state colors for officers. For
example: officer Fangschnur for Preuen officers were silver with black
flecking.
901
Officer
Pelzmtze
Officer Pelzmtzen tended to
be much larger in volume as
illustrated by this period photo
of a Garde Husaren Regiment
Officer wearing an officer's
Pelzmtze. Officer Pelzmtzen
were more of a cap than a
helmet, being soft-sided unlike
the rigid bodies of the issued
Pelzmtze. Officer Pelzmtze
were lined with cloth (usually
silk) and utilized the "squared
finger" liners until 1880 when
the internal leather sweatband
and skull-cap came into use.
All officer Pelzmtze were
covered in thick brown otter
fur until 1912 when the
covering was replaced by grey Photo used with the kind permission of
Thomas Helmlick
opossum fur. The only
exception is Husaren Regt Nr
17 from Braunschweig, where
all officers wore black bear fur
Pelzmtzen.
Parade Plumes
For parades, Mannschaften and officers wore parade plumes inserted
behind the Feldzeichen.
Mannschaften wore a Haarbusch (hair bush) parade plume made from white
horse hair. From 1843 to 1903 the Haarbusch was vertical for the bottom
third, then fell down on the right side, similar to a Ulanen Tschapka
Haarbusch. In the 1903 the Mannschaften Haarbusch was changed so that it
902
was completely vertical. Officers wore a Federbusch (Feather bush) parade

plume which was made from feathers. The colors reflected the contingent
i.e. Preuen officer's Federbusch had black feathers on the bottom, white on
top.
Privately Purchased Pelzmtze

According
to
period
catalogues, Fhnriche and
Fahnenjunker (two forms of
officers cadet) were allowed to
purchase
bear
fur
Eigentumsstck
(Private
purchase) Pelzmtze. This
seems to have also been
tolerated
for
privatelypurchased Pelzmtze for lower
ranks as they range in color
from black to a very dark
brown (almost black) and do
not exhibit the smooth-tight
hair of a seal hide issued
Pelzmtze as evidenced by
Click to Enlarge
903
period photographs.
The example shown here is a Mannschaften (Other Ranks) privately
purchased Pelzmtze for Husaren-Regt. Knigin Wilhelmena der Niederlande
(Hannoversches) Nr.15. It is made from seal hide, but the hair is the natural
dark-brown color and has not been dyed black.
Show here is the squared

leather tongue liner commonly
encountered on Eigentumshelm and referred to as the
"Extra" pattern. The leather is
a higher quality and it was felt
that this style of liner afforded
more comfort. This pattern of
liner was also worn by officers
until 1880.
Click to Enlarge
Leib
Husaren
Some references claim that the Mannschaften (other Ranks) Bandeau of

the Leib Husaren always curved up and around the Totenkopf, while the
officer's Bandeau was the standard line Husaren "wave" pattern Bandeau
that dipped down in the center.
904
Unfortunately, period photographs do not support this as a "rule". As shown

in the photo above, Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Leib Husaren Pelzmtze are
found with both standard line Husaren "wave" pattern Bandeau that dipped
down in the center, or with the distinctive Leib Husaren pattern which
curved up and around the Totenkopf.
Further
evidence
that
Mannschaften
Leib
Husaren
Pelzmtze are occasionally found
with standard Line Husaren
"wave" pattern Bandeau that
dipped down in the center, and
not just the distinctive Leib
Husaren pattern which curved up
and around the Totenkopf, is this
photo taken during the First
World War of an American soldier
joking
with
the
camera.
The caption reads "Helmet of
Crown Prince's Death Head Photo used with the kind permission of
905
Hussars".
Peter Whamond
As Kaiser, his Majesty Wilhelm II

typically wore a general's
Pickelhaube and uniform of the
unit he would visit. The
exception, was when he dressed
as a Leib Husar. The Attila he
wore was always a General's
rank, but rather than an officer's
Pelzmtze of brown otter fur
(until 1912) or grey opossum fur
(after 1912), Wilhelm always
wore a Mannschaften pattern
Leib Husaren black Pelzmtze.
Note that although he wore an
officer's
Feldzeichen,
the
"Fatherland" Bandeau is clearly
the Leib Husaren Mannschaften
pattern which curves up around
the Totenkopf.
Braunschweigisches
Husaren-Regt.
Nr.17
Issued Mannschaften (Other Ranks) examples from Husaren Regt Nr. 17

from Braunschweig are black-dyed seal hide but HR17 was the only regt
where a private purchased Pelzmtze could be bear hide. HR17 was also
the only regiment authorized to wear yellow Fangschnur. The unique gilt
Bandeau was authorized for all ranks in 1867 and carried the battle
honours of "PENINSULA-SICILIEN-WATERLOO" to commemorate the
Regiment's actions in 1812-1814 in Spain and 1815 at Waterloo. In 1873
"MARS LA TOUR" was added for this battle during the Franco-Preuen
906
war.
On 17 September 1883, the Braunschweig pattern Totenkopf was authorized
to be worn by Braunschweigisches Husaren-Regt. Nr.17 on their Pelzmtze.
Unlike the Preuen Leib-Husaren pattern Totenkopf which was identical for
all ranks, the Braunschweig pattern Totenkopf came in two distinct patterns:
a flat issued pattern for Mannschaften (Other Ranks) and a private-purcahse
pattern. The private-purcahse (officer's) Totenkopf, like the one worn by
Braunschweigisches Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92, was three-dimensional with
much more depth, compared to the issued Totenkopf, which was quite flat.
Officer's Pelzmtze of Husaren-Regt. Nr.17
907
The officer's Pelzmtze of the Braunschweigisches Husaren-Regt. Nr.17

was unique, in that it was made from bear hide and rather than the
standard officer-quality curved mounted-pattern chinscales with the
pattern of alternating scales with rounded ends of 3 then 2, then 3, the
chinscales on officer's Pelzmtze of Husaren-Regt. Nr.17 had five rounds
on the end of each scale. Additionally, the Rosettes that held the
chinscales
onto
the
Pelzmtze
were
lion
heads.
This photograph is of Herzog Ernst August von Braunschweig the
Commander-in-Chief of Braunschweigisches Husaren-Regt. Nr.17 and
husband of Princess Victoria Louise. (1887-1953).
Gallery
908
Leib-Garde
Husaren Regt
Leib-Husaren
Nr.1 or 2
Husaren-Regt.
Knigin
Braunschweigisches
Wilhelmena
der
Husaren-Regt.
Niederlande
Nr.17
(Hannoversches) Nr.15
909
Regt.
Husaren-Regt.
Knig
Wilhelm
I
(1.Rheinisches) Nr.7
Kgl.
Husaren-Regt
18, 19, or 20
Schs.
Reserve
Husaren
Reserve Pelzmtze carried a

large Landwehr cross instead of
the Bandeau for Preuen and
Braunschweig
Husaren,
or
superimposed on the Wappen
(front plate) for Sachsen (Saxon)
Husaren. As a general rule, the
cross replaces the Bandeau with
the contingent's motto, but
exceptions
exist,
and
photographs
indicate
that
occasionally the Bandeau and
the Landwehr cross were worn
together.
This extremely rare photograph
shows a Reserve Husaren from
Braunschweigisches HusarenRegt. Nr.17 (Braunschweig) X
Armee Korps. The Distinctive
Braunschweig Totenkopf is
worn, but the Fatherland
Bandeau has been replaced by a
large Landwehr cross.
910
Leib-Husaren
Regt.
Reserve
Reserve officers of the LeibHusaren Regiments had no room

on the Pelzmtze due to the
large Preuen Totenkopf, so in
lieu of the Fatherland Bandeau a
Landwehr cross was worn on the
officer's Feldzeichen.

Stephen Case-Pall
1914
Beginning in 1914, all arms
received
Ersatz-Helme
(substitute helmets) until
helmet supplies could meet
demand. Ersatz (substitute)
Pelzmtzes were produced
from Filz (rabbit felt) or cloth
covered stiffened paper until
leather supplies could meet
demand. Surviving original
examples are found with
either pre-1915 brass or silver
fittings, or with grey steel
M1915 fittings. This wonderful
Robin Lumsden
photo shows a Husar from a
911
Leib Husaren Regt wearing a

Filz Ersatz Pelzmtze with an
issued cloth berzug (cover).
To reduce the reflection of the
brass or silver fittings, all ranks
were first issued with cloth
berzug (helmet cover) in
1892. In 1915 the issued
covers were modified to allow
the leather chinstraps to pass
through the sides.
1915
In accordance with the 1915
regulations issued Pelzmtze
would no longer use brass or
silver. Husaren Mannschaften
(Other
Ranks)
Pelzmtze
continued to be dyed seal hair
but would now only have grey
oxidized steel fittings for all
Regiments and the brass
chinscales were replaced with
a black leather leather
chinstrap on M1891 mounts.
Issued Pelzmtze such as this
example were often worn
without the Kolpak (cloth bag).
Wartime examples are often
encountered with the pre-1915
silver or brass Wappen or
Bandeau painted grey to utilize
existing stocks.
Click to Enlarge
912
A rather "well-fed" NCO of a LineHusaren Regt wearing a M15

Pelzmtze with a M1910 Feldgrau
Attila with the double cuff Tresse
of a Etatmiger Wachtmeister
(not visible in the cropped photo).
This might be a M1915 Friendens
(Future peacetime) Attila, but I
cannot make out if there are
pocket flaps on the Attila. At his
rank, he was entitled to wear
chinscales and a privately
purchased Pelzmtze, but he is
wearing what appears to be a
standard M1915 issued Busby as
indicated by the black leather
M91 chinstrap and the short, tight
seal hair. Of interest, he has
placed the ribbed private
purchase Feldzeichen on it.
913
The
most
beautiful
Husar.
Princess Viktoria Luise (Viktoria Luise
Adelheid Mathilde Charlotte) (13
September 1892 -11 December 1980),
Princess of Hanover, Duchess of
Brunswick-Lunenburg, was the only
daughter and the seventh child of
Emperor Wilhelm II and Empress
Augusta Viktoria. Viktoria Luise was
the Commander-in-Chief of Leib
Husaren Regt Nr. 2. Her Husaren
uniforms, complete with the black
dress worn with Atilla in lieu of
breeches, is on display at Das
Wehrgeschichtliche
Museum
at
Schloss Rastatt in Rastatt Germany.
Ersatz
Pickelhauben 1914 - 1915
914
(Substitute)
In Aug 1914 the declaration of war resulted in the

mobilization of the armies of the German-speaking
contingents fighting together as the Imperial
German Army. With mobilization for a modern war,
the German Armies found themselves unable to
quickly equip millions of soldiers. A shortage of cow
hide from Argentina combined with the excessive
draw upon German industry to outfit the massive
army being mobilized, resulted in a severe shortage
of leather for manufacturing Pickelhauben. To meet
with this immediate shortage, the Germans began in
1914 manufacturing helmets from Ersatz (substitute)
materials.
As the felt hat manufacturing industry was well
established in Germany for hundreds of years, the
hat industry stepped in to fill the void by producing
Pickelhaube out of pressed and blocked felt
manufactured from rabbit fur or shredded wool. One
advantage to the Filzhelme (felt helmets) was that
they were normally pressed from one-piece of felt
which significantly reduced production time. Other
industries met the challenge by producing helmets
from Eisenblech (tin plate), Stahlblech (steel),
Vulcanfibre (pressed fiber), cork, pressed paper, and
other materials. Helmets can be found with brass or
silver fittings and eventually M1915 grey steel
fittings as the M1915 Pickelhaube was introduced.
Surviving examples of Ersatz Pickelhauben can be
found with or without front visor trims, rear spines,
or Kokarden.
These Ersatz-Helme (substitute helmets) were intended to fill the need for
helmets until the leather shortage and manufacturing was able to meet
demand. When the supply of leather helmets met the demand, the Ersatz
915
helmets were withdrawn from front line use, however, rear area troops wore
them well into the war. Below are several examples of Ersatz-Helme
(substitute helmets). Please see the Feldgrau Helmets Gallery in Kaiser's
Bunker for more examples and detailed photos of the Ersatz examples shown
below.
Click to Enlarge
Ersatz Preuen Infantry Eisenblech (tin

plate)
Pickelhaube
The Eisenblech Ersatz-Helme resemble the
M1895 Pickelhaube and are often referred
to as tin "kit helmets" as they were supplied
to units in parts to be assembled. These
helmets were contracted 14 October 1914
by the firm Weissenburger in StuttgartCannstadt. The Eisenblech (tin plate)
Pickelhaubes consist of a black lacquered
helmet shell with seperate front and rear
visors that are slid onto a raised rib and held
on with bent tabs. The metal for the shell is
quite thin and would offer little more
protection than the leather Pickelhaube it
was destined to augment. At first glance, it
appears that regular M1895 fittings are
mated to a tin shell, but Eisenblech
Pickelhaube have several very unique
features. The brads for holding on the spike
base are artificial and are actually pressed
into the spike base, while the spike itself is
pressed onto the helmet skull. The rear
spine stops short of the spike base and is
void of the M1895 sliding vent.
As well, these helmets have an interesting "barrel" method for attaching the
916
Wappen (front plate) onto the helmet rather than the standard loops on the
rear of the Wappen. This unique pattern of pressed spike and tube-mounted
eagle fittings are also found occasionally on Filz (felt) helmets.
Ersatz Bayern Model 1915 Infantry
Eisenblech
(tin
plate)
Pickelhaube.
This pattern of Eisenblech Ersatz-Helme was
contracted in 1914 by Bing A.G. and closely
resembles the pre-war Pickelhaube. Unlike
the Preuen version, the Bing helmet is
pressed from one piece of metal. The
Wappen (front plate), spike, base, side M91
posts, front visor, and studs on the front
visor are identical to those used on the
leather Pickelhaube. The liner is similar to a
standard leather Pickelhaube, but attached
to the shell with split brads with an
additional felt strip for comfort between the
liner and the helmet shell. There is no rear
spine on this pattern of helmet. This Click to Enlarge
example uses 1915 steel fittings and refutes
the theory that the Bayern Eisenblech (tin
plate) Pickelhaube were only produced with
gilt fittings.
917
Click to Enlarge
Ersatz Preuen Infantry Stahlblech (steel)

Pickelhaube.
The Stahlblech Ersatz-Helme differs from
the Eisenblech (tin plate) Pickelhaube as
the helmet is pressed from one sheet of
steel. Front and rear visors are part of the
pressing and are not separate pieces.
These helmets often show evidence of
being turned on a lathe by the circular
patterns found on the shell as with this
example. As these helmets were
structurally quite strong, there was no
need for the reinforcing front visor trim or
rear spine. In lieu of the front visor trim,
the entire bottom edge has been rolledover to form a beaded edge, a feature later
used on the M1916 Steel Helmet which
replaced the Pickelhaube. The helmet has
been painted an olive-green and the brass
fittings have been chemically darkened.
The liner is similar to a standard leather
Pickelhaube, but attached to the shell with
split brads.
918
The single-piece pressing of the shell to

include the front and rear visors is
clearly visible in this photo of a soldier
wearing a Stahlblech Ersatz-Helme.

Tim Lewis
Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen cloth-covered

Filzhelme
(felt
helmets)
These helmets are often incorrectly
identified as cork helmets but this
manufacturer covered a Filzhelm in khaki
cloth on the exterior and visor undersides,
but the interior of the skull is exposed felt.
Click to Enlarge
It appears that this pattern of Ersatz

Pickelhaube was made by only one
manufacturer, as surviving examples in
museums or private collections are
identical in every aspect, with an Ersatz
Leather trim (cloth that has been coated on
one side) sewn completely around the
circumference of the visors.
919
In this photo, a NCO in the Bayern

(Bavarian)
Infanterie-Leib-Regt.
(Mnchen) wears a black-painted Ersatz
Stahlblech (steel) Pickelhaube. The
fittings on this Pickelhaube would have
been silver.
Ersatz Bayern (Bavaria) Filzhelm (felt helmet)

Ersatz felt Pickelhaube were initially
manufactured in 1914 with identical fittings
in silver or brass as the M1895 Pickelhaube,
with front visor trim, rear spine, etc. As the
Filzhelm Pickelhaube was constructed from
pressed and blocked rabbit felt, it afforded
no practical head protection. The liner is
manufactured similar to a standard leather
Pickelhaube but sewn into the shell.
Filzhelme are usually found pressed from
one piece, but occasionally with separately
sewn
on
felt
visors.
Click to Enlarge
The liners in Ersatz Filzhelms are set up

slightly different than regular leather
Pickelhauben;. on an Ersatz Filzhelm, the
liner is stitched inside the shell and then only
folded once to get it inside the helmet. On a
leather Pickelhaube, the liner is stitched
inside-out on the outside of the shell then
920
folded down and inward to the inside the

helmet.
Simplified Ersatz Model 1895 Preuen

Filzhelme
(felt
helmets)
As the war progressed, Fitlzhelme began to be
manufactured without the front visor trim or
the rear spine. These omissions make the
helmet quite fragile and few helmets in this
configuration have survived in good condition.
Later examples were pressed from much
thicker felt and are actually quite stiff and
robust; but they remained exceptionally poor
protection against shrapnel which resulted in
countless head wounds.
Click to Enlarge
Ersatz "Rolled Edge" Filzhelme (felt

helmets)
This example was manufactured as a
Model 1895 with brass fittings, but
without front visor trim or rear spine. To
reinforce the body and add strength, the
manufacturer rolled and sewed the entire
circumference of the bottom edge which
helps the Pickelhaube retain it's shape.
Click to Enlarge
921
Ersatz Model 1915 Preuen Filzhelme (felt

helmets)
As the M1915 Pickelhaube was introduced,
Filzhelme began to be fitted with the M1915
grey steel fittings to replace the silver and
brass fittings worn to that time. In an effort
to utilize all available supplies, some
manufacturers mixed pre-1915 brass fittings
with 1915 steel fittings by painting all the
fittings a matching grey. This example was
manufactured as a standard M1915 with
identical fittings as the M1915 leather
Pickelhaube, with front visor trim, rear
spine, etc. Most examples encountered have
front visor trim and rear spines as the Click to Enlarge
removal of them as in the example above
made the helmet too fragile.
Other
Ersatz
Ersatz-Helme
Beginning in 1914, all arms received Ersatz-Helme (substitute helmets) until
helmet supplies could meet demand. Husaren Pelzmtze (Busby) are found
with felt or cork bodies instead of seal fur, Krassier and Schweres Reiter
Metalhelme appear pressed from sheet steel with artificial rivets, and Jger
and Schtzen Tschako (Shako) were made from rabbit felt or oilcloth.
922
Ersatz Model 1899 Preuen Filz Tschako

(Shako) marked to Telegraphen-Bataillon
Nr.2. The Tschako has the identical parts
as the leather Model 1899, with German
silver Wappen, M91 pattern posts &
chinstrap, blackened air vents on the
sides and a standard Preuen cloth
Feldzeichen. As with all original Filz
Tschako, there is no trim on the front or
rear visors.
Click to Enlarge
Period photographs reveal that most

contingents that worn Tschako prior
to 1914 also adopted Ersatz Filz
Tschako, as shown by this photo of a
Bayern (Bavarian) Jger.

Tim Lewis
923
1914
Ersatz-Helme (substitute helmets)
until helmet supplies could meet
demand. Ulanen Tschapka are found
made from Eisenblech (tin plate) or
from rabbit felt as shown by this
Preuen
Ersatz
Filz-Tschapka.
Only on these two patterns of Ersatz
Tschapka was the squared finger liner
not utilized. Ersatz Tschapka utilized
rounded finger leather liners very
similar to a standard Pickelhaube.
Surviving original felt examples have
metal visor trim.
Ersatz
Pelzmtzen
Ersatz Pelzmtzen (Busbies)
were produced from Filz
(rabbit felt) or cloth covered
stiffened paper until leather
supplies could meet demand.
Surviving original examples are
found with either pre-1915
brass or silver fittings, or with
grey steel M1915 fittings. This
wonderful photo shows a
Husar from a Leib Husaren
Regt wearing a Filz Ersatz
Pelzmtze with an issued cloth
berzug (cover).
Robin Lumsden
924
The Pickelhaube berzug

The intent of this page is to provide a brief explanation with period photos on
the seemingly endless variation of the Pickelhaube berzug (helmet cover)
worn by all ranks on all forms of Imperial German helmets.
Thought by some to be a product of the First World war, the berzug
(helmet cover) was first introduced for general issue on 17 May 1892. The
brass and German silver fittings on all helmets, although very attractive in
garrison, proved to be highly reflective and were determined to be a
liability in the field. For this reason, a cloth berzug (helmet cover) was
introduced to be worn by all ranks on all helmets when in the field.
On 28 January 1897 Regimental numbers were introduced which were
sewn onto the front of the berzug. Initially, only infantry wore the
Regimental numbers, but this was extended to all arms that wore a
Pickelhaube on 15 August 1914. Consequently, except for differences in
uniforms or specific numbers, it can often be difficult when looking at
period photographs to tell the difference between Infantry, Train (Supply),
Dragoner (Mounted Rifle), Pionier (Pioneer), and the Eisenbahn (railway)
etc.
925
Shameless
Plug
I am searching for original examples of all the berzug shown below in order
to eventually show original examples on this reference page. If any readers
have an example they wish to part with, please contact me.
1892
The issued M1892 berzug
carried a Regimental number
in red cut from thin wool or
felt which was stitched to the
front of the berzug. For
Line Regiments the berzug
number matched the number
on the shoulder straps, except
if the regt was cyphered. In
this case, the berzug carried
a regimental number, while
the shoulder straps carried the
regimental
cypher.
The soldier in this photo is
from Infanterie-Regt. Bremen
(1.Hanseatisches)
Nr.75
(Bremen; III Bn Stade) VIII
Armee Korps.
No units of the Preuen Garde-Korps wore numbers on their berzug. From
1892 until the end of the Pickelhaube, the berzug for all Garde Regiments
and Battalions were blank.
926
The M1892 berzug was looselyfitted over the Pickelhaube, with

three hooks on the front which
slipped over the front visor trim,
and two hooks which secured the
berzug to the rear visor. Hooks
are found in brass, black
lacquered
brass,
or
steel.
The spike top was typically held
to the main body cover by four
elasticized cloth strips, which
allowed the helmet to ventilate
through
the
opening.
Additionally, for Infantry and
other troops with the M1895
sliding vent on the rear spine, a
slit was sewn on the rear of the
berzug in the area of the sliding
vent.
The original issued berzug were a light brown color which quickly washedout to a bleached tan color. Changes in the fabric resulted in the berzug
eventually obtaining a Feldgrau color by Oct 1916.
Manufacturer's
Variations
As mentioned above, the standard issued berzug had a separate spike top
which was held to the main body cover by four elasticized cloth strips.
However, berzug are occasionally encountered without a separate spike top.
For ventilation on this pattern, several sewn "grommet" holes are typically
placed in the area of the spike neck. Another variation, are berzug that have
been stitched tight together under the chinstrap mounts. This appears to have
been done to improve the fit to the Pickelhaube.
1914
On 15 Aug 1914 it was directed that the color of the letters/numbers were to
be changed from red to dark green. With the exception of Garde units, this
order applied to all troops, including those that previously had not worn
Regimental numbers.
927
1915
In 1915 the final version of the
Pickelhaube with grey nonreflective steel fittings and a
removable spike necessitated a
new model of berzug. The
M1915 berzug was introduced
on 28 June 1915 and now came
with a cloth spike top, but like the
actual spike on the helmet, it was
removable.
In an effort to improve the
functionality, the M1915 berzug
now came with sewn slits on the
side of the cover to accommodate
the leather chinstrap.The green
numbers/letters still appeared on
the M1915 berzug, but were
Peter Whamond
usually removed for front line
service.
In this photo, the soldier

poses with the cloth spike
top
of
the
berzug
removed. The M1915 grey
metal removable spike is
clearly
visible.
As with the photo above,
the sewn slits in the side of
the
berzug
to
accommodate the leather
chinstrap are also visible.
Photo used with
Peter Whamond
928
the
kind
permission
of
1916
On 27 Oct 1916 it was
directed that all green
numbers/letters be removed
from all berzug. Surviving
examples of berzug often
show a clear outline of where
the letters/numbers once were.
For berzug with stenciled
letters/numbers, that section
of the berzug was removed
and a new piece of cloth sewn
in.
Reserve
For Reserve Regiments,
the number under the "R"
on the berzug matched
the number on the
shoulder
straps.
Like the Line Regiments,
the Reserve "R" and the
Regimental numbers were
initially in red, changed to
green in 1914, and then
removed in 1916.
929
Stenciled
unit
markings
During the war, the thin wool

stitched-on
numbers
began
appearing as stenciled markings
in green paint on the berzug.
This period photo of a soldier
from a Reserve Regiment, clearly
shows that the numbers and the
"R" are stenciled, not separately
sewn.
The numbers for Reserve
Infanterie Regt 121, which match
the berzug, are visible on the
shoulder straps in this photo.
Landwehr
For Landwehr the number under
the "L" also matched the
number on the shoulder straps.
As in the example above, this
"L" and number are stenciled,
not separately sewn.
930
Ersatz
For Ersatz (replacement)
Battalions (later Regiments)
the number under the "E" on
the berzug also matched
the number on the straps.
The numbers for Ersatz
Infanterie Regt 101, which
match the berzug, are
visible on the shoulder
straps in this photo.
Landsturm
Unlike the Line and
Reserve Infantry which
were
organized
into
Regiments, the Landsturm
were
organized
in
Battalions attached To
Armee-Korps. Originally
outfitted
with
black
Wachstuch (oilcloth) caps,
the
Landsturm
were
outfitted
with
Pickelhaubes in 1915. The
Landsturm berzug was
announced on 02 March
1915.
As a result, the Battalion
number
under
the
Landwehr cross (the Iron
Cross) on the berzug
was only in green (never
red) and matched the
931
Battalion (large bottom)

number on the collars; in
this
case,
Landsturm
Battalion Nr. 8 XXI
Armee-Korps.
Landsturm covers were also found with both the battalion number and the
Armee-Korps number in Roman Numerals, or with the Landwehr cross only.
Letters
Beside
Numbers
This photo shows a reservist with

an unusual configuration. Rather
than "R" with numbers below as
was the norm, this cover has "R .
207" side-by-side.

Peter Whamond
932
Unknown
Unit
This photo shows an

berzug with an unknown
marking of "MD". I have
been unable to locate this in
any references.
Photo used with

Marshall Daut
The
the
kind
permission
of
Artillery
When the cloth berzug was introduced in 1892, the The Feldartillerie (Field
Artillery) and the Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery) received berzug with rounded
tops to fit the Kugel (ball) top of the Artillery Pickelhaube. The exception to
this was Bayern (Bavaria). Unlike other contingents who wore a Kugel (ball)
top on the spike to represent a cannon ball, Bayern did not adopt the Kugel
(ball) top for artillery helmets until 31 March 1916. Consequently, Bayern
Artillery wore an berzug with a spike top until 1916.
With the exception of the Garde regiments, all Feldartillerie (Field Artillery)
Regiments carried Regimental numbers in red on the front, while the
Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery) had blank berzug with no numbers. When all
arms were ordered to carry the Regimental number in green on the front of the
berzug on 15 August 1914, both the Feldartillerie (Field Artillery) and the
Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery) complied. The four Garde Artillery Regiments,
however, did not carry regimental numbers and wore a blank berzug from
1892
to
1916.
When all insignia was ordered removed on 27 Oct 1916, the Artillery also
changed to plain cloth berzug.
933
As this photo shows, with

the exception of the
rounded Kugel (ball) top,
the Artillery berzug was
identical to the Infantry
version with three hooks
on the front which slipped
over the front visor trim,
and two hooks which
secured the berzug to the
rear visor.
Munitions-Kolonnen
The Feldartillerie (Field Artillery)
and the Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery)
berzug worn by the ammunition
supply columns, were marked with
Roman
Numerals.
As the ammunition supply columns
were an Armee-Korps resource, the
Roman Numerals reflected the
Armee-Korps,
in
this
case,
Munitions-Kolonnen XIII ArmeeKorps.
The
Tschako
berzug
When the cloth berzug was introduced in 1892, all units which wore the
Tschako were issued with cloth berzug to fit the Tschako.
Like Pickelhaube berzug, Jger Tschako secured to the front with three front
hooks. For ventilation, the Tschako berzug had small holes on the sides
934
which
lined
up
with
the
side
vents
on
the
Tschako.
In 1915 the issued covers were modified to allow the leather chinstraps to pass
through the sides and usually (not always) the sewn slit for the Feldzeichen
was removed, as this was no-longer to be worn in the field.
Jger
Like other troops, the Jger
were issued with cloth berzug
in 1892 with Battalion numbers
which were initially red,
changed to dark green in 1914,
and then removed in 1916. Like
the Infantry Regiments, a large
letter "R" was carried by the
Reserve
Jger
Battalions.
The Garde- Jger Battalion like
all Garde units, never wore
numbers on their berzug,
however the Garde-Schtzen
Battalion were identified by a
large letter "S" sewn to the front
of the Tschako berzug.
Note the unique Feldzeichen (field

badge worn on top) of the Tschako worn
by
Westflisches
Jger-Batl.Nr.7
(Bckeburg)
VII
Armee
Korps.
Note also that the sides of the berzug
are elasticized and the lack of ventilation
holes on the sides, indicating that this is
a private purchase berzug.
935
The Garde Reserve Jger

Battalion wore a berzug
with an unusual insignia;
a simple horizontal bar
sewn to the front of the
cover. Note the Garde
Litzen visible on the
collar.
Photo used with

Peter Whamond
Sachsen
the
kind
permission
of
Jger
Originally introduced in
1867, the Sachsen (Saxon)
pattern Tschako for Jger
and Schtzen Battalions
was more cap than helmet.
It was made from felt and
covered in black cloth with
a flat visor which closely
resembled the French or
American Civil-War Kepi
worn in the 1800s.
Like all other units, the
Sachsen Jger received
fitted cloth berzug to fit
their unique headgear.
Interestingly, according to the berzug worn in the photo above, this man was
a member of Sachsen (Saxon) Reserve Jger Battalion Nr. 26, however, the
shoulder straps appear to be Sachsen (Saxon) Reserve Jger Battalion Nr. 23?
936
Like all berzug, the

Battalion numbers were
removed on 27 Oct 1916.
Note that even during the
war, the Sachsen Jger
continued to wear the
Haarbush (hair bush) on
their Tschako.
The
Cavalry
Although all arms of the cavalry were outfitted with cloth berzug in 1892,
no Regimental numbers were carried. The cavalry first carried the Regimental
numbers on 15 August 1914 when all arms were ordered to carry the
Regimental number in green on the front of the berzug. Like the Garde
Infantry, Garde cavalry formations never carried a Regimental number on the
berzug. Only blank berzug were worn by Garde cavalry from 1892 to
1916.
Like the Infantry, all cavalry formations received a new model of berzug in
1915 when the M1915 helmets were issued with removable spikes. The
cavalry M1915 berzug came with a removable cloth spike top and sewn slits
on the side of the covers to accommodate the leather chinstrap. As with the
Infantry, the green numbers/letters still appeared on the M1915 berzug, but
were
usually
removed
for
front
line
service.
When all insignia was ordered removed on 27 Oct 1916, the cavalry also
complied and reverted back to plain cloth berzug.
937
Ulanen
The Ulanen (Lancers) also recieved
the cloth berzug in 1892 in the
shape
of
their
Tschapka.
In addition to hooks on the front on
the berzug to attach to the front
visor, Ulanen Tschapka berzug
have a series of hook & eye up one
side on the berzug to allow the
cover to be fitted.
The Model 1915 Tschapka berzug came with semi-circular sewn slits on the
sides to allow the leather chinstraps to pass through the sides. As the entire top
of the Tschapka was removable, so too was the top of the berzug. This
resulted in the hook & eyes used to fasten the berzug together along one
side, being on the removable top only. The bottom section was now sewn
together as it could be slipped onto the Tschapka skull when the top was
removed.
Husaren
As the edges of a Husaren
Pelzmtze was considerably
thicker than the brims on a
Pickelhaube,
Pelzmtze
berzug were held on with a
draw-string along the bottom
edge.
The Model 1915 berzug came
with semi-circular sewn slits
on the sides to allow the leather
chinstraps to pass through the
sides and usually (not always)
there was no sewn slit for the
Feldzeichen as this was no-
938
Photo used with the kind permission of longer to be worn in the field.
Robin Lumsden
As with all units, Husaren berzug carried Regimental numbers in green after
15 August 1914. The exception, was the 1st and 2nd Leib Husaren regiments
who worn a script "L" on the front of the berzug, and the Garde Husaren
Regt who carried no insignia.
Krassier and Jger zu Pferde

Like all arms, Krassier and Jger
zu Pferde Metalhelme also recieved
the cloth berzug in 1892 in the
shape of their helmets.
Officer & Private Purchase

Unlike issued berzug which
were
loose-fitting
and
secured by brass hooks on
the visor, officer berzug
were privately purchased and
often
accompanied
the
Pickelhaube when purchased.
The front and rear visors on
the
privately
purchased
berzug utilized stiffened
brims which slipped over the
front and rear visor of the
Pickelhaube. To improve fit,
939
the section between the front

and read visors and around
the spike were either
elasticized or had small metal
springs sewn into the seam.
Officer's
1915
In 1915 the final version of the officer's Pickelhaube appeared, which had a
removable spike and chinscales, which necessitated a new model of berzug.
The M1915 berzug was introduced for officers which had a separate cloth
spike top which was removable for when the spike was not worn. When the
chinscales were removed, the M91 leather chinstrap was mounted and inserted
through circular sewn slits on the side of the berzug.
As a result, besides quality, the only significant difference between issued
M1915 berzug and officer's M1915 berzug, was that the officer's version
retained stiffened brims which slipped over the front and rear visors of the
Pickelhaube, the section between the front and read visors and around the
spike had better fit as indicated above, and there was no slit on the rear for
ventilation.
Little-uns vs. Big-uns or, Comparing Wappen Sizes
940
The intent of this page is to show a examples of Wappens of different

sizes, i.e. Tschako and Tschapka vs. Pickelhaube. Measurements were
made with a cloth tape measure laid onto the obverse (front) of the eagle
from the bottom of the tail feathers to the top of the crown. Examples
measured varied 2 to 3 mm for similar models which could account for
manufacturer's variation.
Baden
Below are both sizes of the Baden gilt Wappens. The smaller one measures only 88mm
from the bottom of the Bandeau to the top of the crown and was worn only by
Badisches Train-Bataillon Nr.14 (Durlach) XIV Armee Korps from 1864 to 1903.
Consequently, they are quite rare.
Preuen (Prussia) Line Eagle Wappen

The first is the most familiar, the Preuen (Prussia) gilt Line Eagle Wappen. The
smaller one measures only 95mm compared to the larger Infantry Line Eagle Wappen at
115mm. Both of these are M1895 eagles.
941
The smaller one was worn by:
Jger Battalions 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, and 11

Ulanen Regts 4, 9, 10, 11, 12, and UR14 until 1899
Train Battalions until 1903
The second (below) is more obscure, being the German silver (nickel) Preuen Line
Eagle Wappen. It measures only 95mm compared to the larger Eagle Wappen worn
only by Preuen Pionier at 113mm. Both of these are M1895 Eagle Wappens.
Ulanen Regts 5, 6, 8, 15, 16, UR13 until 1899 and UR7 until 1913
Telegraphen Battalions 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
Luftschiffer-Bataillons 3, 4, and 5
942
Below are both sizes of the Preuen gilt so-called "old style Grenadier" Eagle Wappen,
which as you will see, is a name that does not really apply as many arms used the
"FWR" (Friedrich Wilhelm Rex) in a cypher on the chest. The smaller one measures
only 95mm and was used right up until 1915. Possibly after, but I have never seen a
grey steel M15 example.
Ulanen Regts 1, 2, and 3

Jger Battalions 1 & 2, 5, and 6
The last for Preuen, (below) is the Preuen M1915 steel Eagle Wappen. The smaller
one was worn by mostl Ulanen Regts, Jger Battalions, and Preuen Telegraphen
Battalions. It measures only 95mm compared to the larger one at 115mm. Note the
"clipped beak" on the 95mm example, mostly found on Ulanen Tschapka.
Below, the three Amigos. Please note that all three of these are 95mm examples, are
M1895 pattern (loops to the rear) and all three have long tail feathers that drop straight
down from the bottom the chest, a feature changed on the 115mm Line Eagle Wappen
in 1871 where three short feathers drop down from the chest to form a VVV shape.
943
LEFT From 1860 to 1895 the eagle Wappen on Jger Mannschaften Tschako
had standard overlapping chest feathers. In 1895 one manufacturer changed the
chest feathers so they appear to meet in the center, like fingers, touching.
CENTER Other manufacturers continued to produce Jger Mannschaften

Tschako Wappen with the pre-1895 overlapping chest feathers. You can see how
the left and center are very similar in shape and features except for the chest
feathers. They both have the typical 1895 characteristic of having the area
between the upper legs and wing feathers voided.
RIGHT This is the pattern normally found only on issued Tschapka. It has a
different shape and is often found with a "clipped beak". This pattern normally
does not have the area between the upper legs and wing feathers voided and has
a small connecting bar between the right leg and orb. Chest feathers on this
pattern, are always overlapped.
Sachsen
Sachsen (Saxony) Wappen measurements are average, as with the Sachsen center
Wappen having different depths, it makes these very hard to accurately measure. It
measures only 82mm compared to the larger Infantry Line Wappen at 104mm. Saschen
Ulanen did not always wear the smaller Wappen and original Sachsen Tschapka
manufactured after 1914 are sometimes found with the 105mm Wappen.
944
The first comparison is the gilt Wappen.
Kgl. Schs. Schtzen (Fsilier)-Regt. Prinz Georg Nr.108 (until 1909)

Ulanen-Regts 17 and 18;BR>
Kgl. Schs. Husaren-Regts 18, 19, & 20
Kgl. Schs. Train-Bataillon Nr.12 & 19 (until 1903)
A 82mm Wappen was also worn with the colors reversed, i.e. silver base star and gilt
center Wappen by:
Ulanen-Regt 21;
Sachsen Jger battalions, Nr. 12, 13, and 15 (until 1909)
Kgl. Schs. Telegraphen-Bataillon Nr.7
3rd Komp of Luftschiffer-Bataillon Nr.2
3rd Komp of Flieger-Bataillon Nr.1
2nd Komp Kraftfahr-Bataillon
Interestingly, Kgl. Schs. Maschinengewehr-Abteilung Nr.8 did not wear the 82mm
size Wappen, as they wore Preuen pattern Tschako with the 104mm Wappen.
The second issued comparison for Sachsen (Saxony) is a horned Wappen. The 82mm
example in this coloration was worn only by Kgl. Schs. Schtzen (Fsilier)-Regt. Prinz
Georg Nr.108. The Sachsen Jger battalions, Nr. 12 and 13, wore a similar Wappen, but
with reversed colors, i.e.. silver base star and gilt center Wappen and horn. From 1867
until 1909, Sachsen Jger and Schtzen wore the reduced size Sachsen Wappen, but
only on 31 Aug 1909 the horn was added to the Wappen of the Jger and Schtzen, in
silver and gilt respectively.
945
And last: the steel M1915s. The 82mm example shown below would have been worn by
the Sachsen Jger and Schtzen. 82mm Wappens without horn were worn by the
remaining units (Ulanen, Husaren, Flieger etc). Like the pre-1915 versions the steel fullsize M1915 Wappen measures on average 104mm.
Wrttemberg
Below are two issued comparisons for Wrttemberg, the first is of the gilt Wappen. The
smaller one was only worn by one unit, Wrttembergisches Train-Bataillon Nr.13
between 1871 and 1903. Consequently, they are quite rare. Like its Preuen counterpart,
it measures only 95mm from the top of the crown to the bottom of the center, compared
to the larger Infantry Line Wappen at 125mm.
946
The second issued comparison for Wrttemberg is the German silver (nickel) Wappen.
The smaller one was worn by 5 units:
3rd Komp of Telegraphen-Bataillon Nr.4; and

4th Komp of Luftschiffer-Bataillon Nr. 4.
Pickelhaube Anatomy
In order to understand the differences between the rank levels of Pickelhaube, it is
crucial to understand the various parts that a Pickelhaube consists of. Below is an issued
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) Typical 1891/97 Pickelhaube.
947
Pickelhauben also are encountered with Schuppenketten (chinscales) instead of a leather

chinstrap. Please see the page on Chinscales & Chinstraps for further information.
Kokarden
It is important to understand that the only actual rank indicators on a Pickelhaube are
the Kokarden on the sides of the helmet under the chinstraps or chinscales. This
includes both the state Kokarden and the Reich's-Kokarde in Red-White-Black which
was introduced for all ranks in 1897. To the right you will find an overview of the
evolution of the Kokarden, with a few examples of the different patterns that identify
rank
948
Above are shown the three different patterns of Preuen (Prussian) Kokarden that
identify rank. The Mannschaften (Other Ranks) issue Kokarde is constructed on one
piece of metal without an additional ring. The Unteroffizier mit Portepee Kokarde is
what is commonly called the "NCO Kokarde", however, Unteroffizier and Sergeant
wore Mannschaften Kokarde, so the term "NCO Kokarde" really does not work.
The Kokarde only worn by Unteroffizier mit Portepee entitled to wear the officer's
sword knot (center) has an additional ring with a distinctive diagonal ribbing (similar to
that worn by officers prior to 1867). The post-1867 officer Kokarde is constructed of a
base plate with an additional "double ring" metal ring on top.
Contingent Kokarden of the Kingdoms, Grand Duchies, Principalities,

and Free Hanseatic cities of the Empire.
The evolution of the Preuen Kokarde:

1842:
Officers, Fhnrich -75mm leather Kokarde w/ silver metal ring

Vizefeldwebel and below -75mm Leather Kokarde
1844:
949
Officers, Fhnrich, plus now Portepee-Unteroffiiziere -75mm Leather Kokarde

w/ silver metal ring
Sergeant and below - 75mm Leather Kokarde
1846:
Officers, Fhnrich, Portepee-Unteroffiiziere -75mm silk Kokarde with silver

painted ring although 1844 Kokarde used concurrently.
Sergeant and below - 75mm Painted wool Kokarde
1848
"Deutsche Kokarde" introduced worn on the left side of the helmet. Terminated
in 1851.
1857
Officers, Fhnrich,Portepee-Unteroffiiziere -75mm Stamped metal Kokarde with

silver affixed ring
Sergeant and below - 75mm Stamped painted metal Kokarde
1867
Officers, Fhnrich- New 55 mm Kokarde with "twin rings" on the silver affixed
ring (Note: This could have occurred in 1871. The exact date is not yet
confirmed)
Portepee-Unteroffiiziere -Retained the 1857 officer's Kokarde, but reduced to
51mm, the "Unteroffizier mit Portepee Kokarde"
Mannschaften Kokarden for Sergeant and below - 51mm Stamped painted metal
Kokarde
1887
Mannschaften Kokarde for Sergeant and below receives an additional hole under
the center for the M87 chinstrap mounts.
1891
Mannschaften Kokarde for Sergeant and below and " Unteroffizier mit Portepee
Kokarde" receive an enlarged center hole for the M91 chinstrap mounts
1897
Reich's Kokarden introduced for all ranks to be worn on the right side of the
helmet.
State Kokarden moved to the left side.
Mannschaften and "NCO" Kokarden reduced to 48mm.
950
Above are shown three of the other patterns of Kokarden that can be encountered. The
Mannschaften issue Kokarde for Sachsen (Saxony) is round with a non-serrated edge.
The Mannschaften issued Kokarde for Hessen is
951
also round with a non-serrated edge, but has two distinct painted inner rings. The officer
Baden Kokarde is constructed from one piece of non-serrated metal without an
952
additional ring and is of a "ribbon" or "waffle" pattern. This pattern of officer Kokarde
was also worn by Anhalt and Wrttemberg.
953
The Waffenrock 1842 - 1895

In 1842, Preuen (Prussia) introduced a new pattern of uniform for all foottroops consisting of a uniform called a Waffenrock to be worn with a tall
leather spiked helmet called a Pickelhaube. This form of dress was
considerably different from the short Kollet (a waist-length jacket with tails)
worn with the high leather Tschako during the Napoleonic wars.
From:
Der Bunte Rock in Preuen. Staatliche Museen Preuischer Kulturbesitz, Berlin, (1981)
The Waffenrock and Pickelhaube can be considered the first "modern" military
uniform and helmet which still shows their influence in today's military dress.
The new Waffenrock introduced by AKO on 23 October 1842 was made from a
high quality wool known as "doeskin" with eight 25 mm buttons closing the
front. The Waffenrock was cut low and hung beneath the sleeves with a raw
edge. The collar was high, measuring 7 cm and was the same color as the
Waffenrock, except for two large colored patches on either side of the front
collar, which which gave the appearance of a red collar with the center rear 1/3
954
being blue. Shoulder straps were the same color as worn previously on the
Napoleonic era Kollet with numbers sewn in Rundschnur (rounded cord)
pattern. This pattern of shoulder strap stayed in use until 1853 when it was
changed to "Blatschnur" which was either chain-stitched or flat cord numbers.
Dunkelblau (dark blue) Waffenrock were typically
worn by Infantry, Feldartillerie (Field Artillery),
Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery) Regiments, Train
(Supply), Pionier (Pioneers) and most other units.
Hellblau (light blue) Waffenrock were worn by the
majority of Dragoner (Mounted Infantry)
Regiments (except Hessen) while dark green
Waffenrock were worn by Jger (light Infantry)
Battalions.
Issued Waffenrock tend to be quite dark while
Eigetumsstck (privately purchased) Waffenrocks
are much lighter in color. Officer's Waffenrock,
when compared to an issued Waffenrock from the
same unit, are considerably lighter in color as they
were privately purchased. Conjointly, the lighter
color was probably deemed "more fashionable"
than the darker issued Waffenrocks of the men.
955
The fashionable Waffenrock soon spread

throughout the German-speaking Kingdoms,
Duchies and principalities that fell under the
Preuen sphere of influence. Below are the
dates when the Preuen Waffenrock was
adopted:
Baden 1849
Bayern (Bavaria) 1849
Braunschweig - 1886
Hessen 1849
Oldenburg - 1849
Sachsen (Saxony) 1849
Wrttemberg - 1849-1864. Again in
1889 (see below)
When Bayern adopted the Waffenrock in 1849, it did not adopt the very dark
blue for the infantry. Bayern infantry maintained a lighter sky blue color of the
Napoleonic pattern tunics worn up to that time.
Sachsen (Saxony) also deviated from the Preuen colors by outfitting her
Artillery, Pioneer, and Schtzen units in dark green Waffenrocks.
956
Although the Waffenrock was eventually adopted

throughout the German-speaking land under the
Preuen sphere of influence, many Kingdoms,
Duchies and principalities retained their own
distinctive forms of uniforms for many years.
Braunschweig in particular, retained their unique
corded Waffenrock pattern until 1886, as worn by
a soldier in the photo to the left from
Braunschweigisches Infanterie-Regt. Nr.92. Up to
1886, Braunschweig wore a uniform called a
Polrock. It was black, with kornblumenblau collar,
cuffs, and shoulder straps in black cord. When
Braunschweig joined the North German
Confederation 18 March 1886, they adopted the
Preuen pattern Waffenrock for the X Armee
Korps, with blue piping around the red
Brandenberg cuffs, with white shoulder straps
and red cypher as well as the Preuen pattern
Pickelhaube with the Braunschweig eagle
Wappen.
Prior to 1864, Wrttemberg troops wore a

uniform similar to the Preuen pattern Model
1842 Waffenrock. In 1864 Wrttemberg
introduced a unique pattern of doublebreasted Waffenrock which was updated to the
M1871 which is the example shown. This
Waffenrock was worn until 1889 when the
Preuen M1867 pattern was adopted. These
Wrttemberg Waffenrock are often
misidentified as Ulan Ulanka, but are
significantly different cut with a straight top
"flap" to the double-breast while Ulanka are
scalloped and also have piping on the false side
957
Click to Enlarge
of the double breast.
Click to Enlarge
1867
An AKO on 25 April 1867 announced significant
refinements to the Preuen pattern Waffenrock.
The collar became "softer" and slightly rounded
on issued tunics, except if Litzen was worn in
which case they remained squared. The collar
was lowered to 4.75 cm and now came
completely in the color of the arm of service to
match the cuffs. Red for Infantry and Jger, light
blue for Train and black for Artillery, Pioneer and
Verkehrstruppen
(Transportation
Troops).
Dragoon regiments wore a variety of colors
depending on the regiment. The sleeves cut was
given more volume to improve comfort and the
shoulder straps were in regimental facing colors.
Gilt or silver buttons (with a few exceptions)
matched the color of the metal fittings on the
Pickelhaube. In 1875 the tin buttons utilized on
the M1842 Waffenrock for regiments with
"white" buttons were finally changed to
"Britanniametall" (German silver).
The cuffs on Waffenrock were made in a variety of patterns, such as

Brandenburg, Swedish or Sachsen (Saxon). Both collar and cuff were piped in
the color of the Army Corps, and were piped in white, yellow, red, light-blue,
green, or are void of colored piping. The vertical panels of the cuffs, particularly
the Brandenburg, can be in a variety of colors depending on the unit. Common
colors are red, white, green, and blue. Polish cuffs similar to those worn on
Ulan tunics were worn on a few obscure units such as Landwehr-Kavellerie and
958
Wrttemberg Landjger-korps. The common cuff patterns are shown below.

Click on the thumbnails below to enlarge.
Click to Enlarge
Click to Enlarge
Swedish
Sachsen (Saxon)
Click to Enlarge
Brandenburg
Click to Enlarge
Polish
Sleeves carried Brandenburg or French cuffs with

three buttons or Swedish cuffs with two buttons,
or even Polish cuffs with one to four buttons
dependant upon the Regiment. Regiments wore
buttons made from brass, or tin for "white"
buttons. For Garde (Guard) units both collar and
cuffs were decorated with ornamental bars
known as Litzen. Litzen come in white or yellow
for Mannschaften, silver or gilt for officers
depending on the unit.
For all known patterns of Litzen, please see

the "Litzen Plates" on the "Uniform Details"
charts for all Regiments at the bottom of this
page.
Click to Enlarge
959
The rear skirt had two large buttons attached above

the rear skirt formation which were used to carry
the extra weight of the belt and its attached
equipment. Note that there is no rear vent in the
M1867 Waffenrock rear skirt. The rear skirt was
given an actual vent on the M1895 Waffenrock. In
each rear skirt liner were two pockets, which were
accessed through a long vertical slit opening after
1895.
Click to Enlarge
Sachsen (Saxon) Waffenrock had a unique pattern of

rear skirt with reduced buttons and straight piping.
The bottom edge of all Sachsen Waffenrock are
piped.
Click to Enlarge
Issued Waffenrock were completely lined, usually in two

different fabrics. The top was normally lined with a heavyweight cotton or linen material, usually in white or offwhite. The bottom was normally lined with a heavy-weight
cotton, linen, or silk material, usually in black. The
Waffenrock was void of any external pockets, so there was
usually a horizontal or vertical interior pocket on the
wearer's left breast, or sometimes on both sides. Inside the
tunic at the waist, two cloth straps adjusted the tunic to the
wearer.
960
Click to Enlarge
On issue Waffenrock, the liner was usually stamped with

Bekleidungsamt (Army Clothing Depot) markings and could
include the year of the stamping, issuing army corps, and
size information.
Click to Enlarge
By 1871, the establishment of the German Empire resulted in the re-numbering

of Regiments and Battalions to reflect their position within the greater German
Army. Bayern, (Bavaria), however, retained her own Army Corps and did not
renumber her units. The Waffenrock was maturing as the national dress for the
Army. These period illustrations show the variances of coloration within one
branch of service. The illustrations below are from Das kleine Buch vom
Deutschen Heere Lipius & Tischer (1900) and show some of the different
Waffenrock coloration adopted by the different arms of service. Click on the
thumbnails below to enlarge.
Please note that for specific details of uniforms for every Regiment or
Battalion, refer to the "Regiment and Battalion Charts" at the bottom of this
page.
Infanterie (Infantry)
Preuen - Dunkelblau (dark blue)

Bayern (Bavaria) - Hellblau (light blue)
Click to Enlarge
961
Jger (light infantry)

Preuen - Green
Bayern (Bavaria) - Hellblau (light blue)
Sachsen (Saxon) - Stahlgrun (dark
steel green)
Click to Enlarge
Artillerie (Artillery)

Sachsen (Saxon) - Green
Click to Enlarge
Pionier (Pioneer)

Sachsen (Saxon) - Green
Click to Enlarge
962
Dragoner (Mounted Rifles)
Preuen - Kornblumenblau (cornflower

blue)
Hessen - Stahlgrun (dark steel green)
Wrttemberg - Hellblau (light blue)
Click to Enlarge
Click to Enlarge
1895
An AKO on 25 April 1895 announced the final
refinements to the Waffenrock. The collar
height on issue Waffenrock ranged from 4.5 to 5
cm, however, privately purchased Waffenrock
invariably have higher collars ranging from 6 cm
to 7 cm. Buttons were reduced in size from
25mm to 21mm. The rear skirt was given an
actual vent on the M1895 Waffenrock, allowing
the two rear skirt liner pockets to be accessed
through a long vertical slit opening between the
rear scallops. The color of the Waffenrock
ranged from light to dark blue or green and the
collar and cuffs came in a rainbow of colors as
did the shoulder straps. The Waffenrock was to
stay in this form until the eventual replacement
by the M1907/10 Feldgrau Feldrock.
963
The link to this photo shows a very

small selection of 1895 shoulder straps
worn by Mannschaften (Other Ranks)
on the Dunkelblau Waffenrock up to
1914. For a full list of strap cyphers as
of 1900, please refer to the link for
"Shoulder Strap Plate 1" and "Shoulder
Strap Plate 2" at the bottom of this
page.
Click to Enlarge
The Brandenburg cuff has a horizontal panel (usually red) around the
circumference of the cuff, with a vertical panel superimposed on top. The vertical
panel has three buttons. Both horizontal and vertical panels are often piped in the
Army Corps color. Top row left to right, X Armee-Korps, F Artillerie (Foot
Artillery). Bottom row left to right, VII Armee Korps, XVI Armee-Korps.
964
Examples can be
found with, or without
side seams that open.
This 1890 dated M1867 Mannschaft (Other Ranks) Waffenrock is from

Fsilier Regt General Feldmarschall Prinz Albrecht von Preuen
(Hannoversches) Nr. 73 X.AK. The tunic is an early issued Dunkelblau wool
with numerous issue markings and dates for IR73. The GIBRALTAR cuff title
was bestowed on the Regt on 24.01.1901 by HM Kaiser Wilhelm II for service
by this Regt on Gibraltar from 1775 to 1783 and would have been added to
the Waffenrock in 1901.
965
Model 1871 issued Waffenrock from Grenadier Regt. Knigin Olga

(1.Wrttembergisches) Nr. 119, Stuttgart, XIII Armee-Korps. The
Wrttemberg Model 1871 Waffenrock was made from doeskin wool with six
25mm buttons down each side of the breast. The front of the Waffenrock
was not scalloped on the top and only piped on one side. The cuffs on this
example are Swedish pattern, a common feature to Wrttemberg Grenadier
Regiments 119 and 123. In 1892 the Model 1871 Wrttemberg pattern
Waffenrock was replaced by the standard Preuen pattern Waffenrock.
Surviving examples of this pattern are rare.
966
967
The sleeves and the top interior of the tunic are completely lined in an
off-white heavy linen. The lower half of the interior is lined in black
linen. Note the two lower pockets built into the rear skirt.
968
969
970
971
This elegant M1895 Mannschaften

(Other Ranks) Waffenrock is from
Dragoner-Regt. Knigin Olga (1.
Wrttembergisches) Nr.25
(Ludwigsburg).
972
The photo above shows a very small selection of shoulder straps worn by
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) on the Dunkelblau Waffenrock as of 1914.
Where some arms of service come in a variety of colors (Infantry for
example) I have tried to show one of each color. For a full list of strap
cyphers as of 1900, please refer to the link for "Shoulder Strap Plate 1" and
"Shoulder Strap Plate 2" at the bottom of the Waffenrock page.
1. 1. Garde-Regt. zu Fu
2. Kaiser Alexander Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.1
3. Knigin Elisabeth Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.3
4. Kgl. Schs. 2. Grenadier-Regt. Kaiser Wilhelm, Knig von Preuen Nr.101
5. Leibgarde-Infanterie-Regt. (1. Groherzoglich Hessisches) Nr.115
6. Infanterie-Regt. Hessen-Homburg Nr.166
7. Lothringisches Infanterie-Regt. Nr.158
8. Lothringisches Train-Bataillon Nr.16
9. 1. Garde-Feldartillerie-Regt
973
10. Kgl. Schs. 1. Feld-Artillerie-Regt. Nr.12

11. Lothringisches Feld-Artillerie-Regt. Nr.33
12. Bergisches Feld-Artillerie-Regt. Nr.59
13. 1. Kurhessisches Feld-Artillerie-Regt. Nr.11
14. Fuartillerie Schieschule
15. Fuartillerie-Regt. von Hindersin (1. Pommersches) Nr.2
16. Krankenwrter Abteilung Nr. 30 (Medical Orderly Detachment Nr. 30)
17. Krankentrger Abteilung Nr. 14 (Stretcher Bearer Detachment Nr. 14)
18. Landwehr-Inspection Berlin
19. Preuische Invalidenhuser 3 bis 8 Komp (3rd to 8th Company)
20. Sanitts Personal 8 Btln (Medical personal 8 Btln.)
21. Westflisches Jger-Batl.Nr.7
22. Landwehr-Inspection Altona
23. 2. Badisches Dragoner-Regt. Nr.21
24. Sanitts Personal des Garnisonlazaretts Darmstadt
(Medical personal garrison military hospital Darmstadt)
Krassier (Heavy Cavalry) and Sachsen

(Saxon) Schweres Reiter.
1843 - 1914
The white uniforms of the Krassier can be
traced back to 1808 when a Kollet (a waistlength jacket with tails) made from yellowwhite (cream color) boiled wool known as
kirsey with Swedish cuffs was introduced.
The collar and cuffs were in Regimental
facing colors and it was closed on the front
with eight buttons. A leather helmet with
gilt fittings was worn. This uniform was
worn until the introduction of the M1843
Koller and Metalhelme (a helmet made
from polished steel or Tombak). Like it's
predeceser, the M1843 Koller was made of
yellow-white kersey.
974
The majority of Krassier regiments wore polished steel helmets with gilt
fittings. The following Regiments wore Tombak helmets with silver fittings
with the exception of the chinscales, which were also Tombak:
Regt. der Gardes du Corps;

Garde-Krassier-Regiment ; and
Krassier-Regiment Kaiser Nikolas I. von Ruland
(Brandenburgisches) Nr.6
The high collar with its

distinctive curve, the cuffs,
seams, and piping on the
front opening and rear skirt
of the Koller were piped in
the regimental facing color.
Shoulder straps were white
and also piped in the
Regimental color, while
officers wore epaulettes.
The
Koller
border
(Kollerborte) was white
fabric edged in regimental
facing colors, and ran the
entire length of the front,
collar, and cuffs. See the
"Uniform Details for all
Krassier Regiments" at the
top or bottom of this page
for details.
975
For the Gardes du Corps and the Garde Krassier, both collar and cuffs were
decorated with white Garde Litzen as is shown on this issued Koller for a
Sergeant of the Garde Krassier Regt Garde-Korps Berlin. Officers wore
silver Litzen. The silver or gilt shoulder strap and rear skirt buttons matched
the color of the metal fittings on the Metal Krassier helmet. See the
"Uniform Details for all Krassier Regiments" at the top or bottom of this
page for details. As the owner of this example was a Sergeant, there is bright
silver Garde pattern NCO lace sewn directly over the white portion of the
Krassier Kollerborte on the collar and cuffs. This lace combined with the two
silvered Prussian NCO buttons on the collar indicate the rank of Sergeant.
A view of the Krassier cuff pattern. As with the other Regiments of the
Army, NCOs wore silver or gilt lace around the collar and cuffs from the
rank of Unteroffizier and above. Similar to the collar, bright silver Garde
pattern NCO lace is sewn directly over the white portion of the Krassier
Kollerborte.
976
The front is closed with sixteen alternating hook and eyes the entire length
of the front, plus two on the collar. There are only twelve buttons on the
Koller; two on each cuff, two on the shoulder straps and six on the rear
skirts. The two top rear buttons also serve as belt ramps
The Krassier also wore a dark blue

Waffenrock similar to other units
which was worn primarily for
walking-out dress and other unofficial
duties. The daily wear uniform
including field service, was the Koller.
The Krassier Waffenrock was
Dunkelblau (dark blue) with the
identical collar and cuffs as was found
on the Koller. The Kollerborte (Koller
border) in regimental facing colors,
however, was only displayed on the
collar and cuffs. The Krassier
Waffenrock evolved in line with the
Waffenrock for all arms, which is
discussed in detail on the Waffenrock
page
977
Sachsen (Saxon) Schweres Reiter

also wore a Koller, but it was
light blue color with collar, cuffs,
and Kollerborte in the Regimental
facing color. All ranks wore
scaled gilt epaulettes with gilt
metal helmets. Please see the
"Uniform Details for all
Krassier Regiments" at the top
or bottom of this page for details.
The Ulanen
The Ulanen (Lancers) wore a double-breasted

uniform known as the Ulanka which was
introduced in 1843. The Ulanka was made from
doe-skin wool or tricot with the collar, cuffs,
front, and seams piped in the regimental facing
colors. Bayern (Bavaria) Ulanka, however, were
only piped on the front opening, not on the false
side of the double breast. The metal trim and
buttons matched the color of the metal fittings on
the Tschapka, which was the unique Lancer
helmet wore by the Ulanen.
978
The large shoulder epaulettes worn by all ranks had silver or gilt crescents
and scales on regimental colors with silver or gilt numbers or cyphers for
Mannschaften (Other Ranks). Sachsen (Saxon) NCOs occasionally wore
cloth shoulder straps in Regimental facing colors although examples of this
are rare. Officers wore silver or gilt crescents with silver or gilt lace in the
country or state colors on regimental colors with silver or gilt numbers or
cyphers. See the "Uniform Details for all Ulanen Regiments" at the top or
bottom of this page for details.
Several of the Ulanen regiments had an odd double-colour configuration
for the epaulettes, where the officer's had silver braid and crescents, while
the men had gilt scales and crescents regardless of the fittings on the
Tschapka. They were:
UR5, UR6, UR7, UR8, UR14, UR16.
979
Ulanen
Regiments wore
three distinct
colors of Ulanka.
Preuen
(Prussia)
and
Wrttemb
erg:
Dunkelbla
u (dark
blue)
Sachsen
(Saxon)
Hellblau
(light
blue) ; and
Bayern
(Bavaria)
Stahlgrun
(dark steel
green)
980
For parades, a removable Paraderabatten

(parade Rabatte) was attached to the front
panel of the Ulanka as well as around the neck
of the Ulanen helmet, the Tschapka. The colors
of the Paraderabatten matched the Regimental
facing colors. The edges of the Mannschaften
(Other Ranks) Paraderabatten on the Tschapka
was trimmed in white for all Regiments, while
the officer's were trimmed in silver with state
flecking.
For Garde units both collar and cuffs were decorated with white or yellow
Litzen for men, silver or gilt for officers. The rank of Unteroffizier (senior
981
Corporal) on this Ulanen Regt. Nr. 19 example is indicated by the silver NCO
lace around the collar and cuffs.
All seams including both side

of the double-breast, shoulders,
rear "darts" and sleeves were
piped in the Regimetal facing
color.
The cuffs on Ulanka were Polish pattern and had a vertical point with a single
button. As with the other Regiments of the Army, NCOs wore silver or gilt
lace around the collar and cuffs from the rank of Unteroffizier and above.
From left to right, Ulanen Regt. Nr 20, Ulanen Regt. Nr 19, and Ulanen Regt.
982
Nr 16
The Sachsen Ulanen had a peculiar habit after 1910 of wearing numbered
straps on the Dunkelblau Ulanka in lieu of epaulettes for the three Sachsen
Ulanen Regts. No other contingent did this. Photographs of this pattern are
quite rare, but those that do appear show that only numbers were worn,
never the regimental cypher, and the straps were sewn into the shoulder
seams and not removable.
To the left is a scarce period photo of this unusual Ulanka pattern worn by
an Einjhrig-Freiwilliger (One year volunteer) in Ulanen regt Nr. 21. Note
that UR21 wore a cypher on their epaulettes, but as expected, instead of the
scaled brass epaulettes there is a strap of the same blue material, piped in
white with a white #21.
983
A rare example of the Sachsen

Ulanen Ulanka with shoulder
straps for Kgl. Schs.1. UlanenRegt. Kaiser Franz Josef von
sterreich, Knig von Ungarn''
Nr.17.
Ulanen Rget Nr. 17 wore a cypher
on their scaled brass epaulettes,
but on this pattern of Ulanka only
a strap of the same blue material,
piped in white with a white #17 is
worn.
Three Ulanen from the 2. Hannoversches Ulanen-Regt. Nr.14 enjoy a beer and
984
a cigarette for the camera. Beer.....is there anything it can't do?
The Husaren
The colorful uniforms of the Husaren (Light Cavalry) first appeared in
1721 when a blue Kollet (a waist-length jacket with tails) with rows of
ornamental braiding on the chest was introduced with a tall, cylindrical
piece of headgear called a "Tschako" which was common to most troops
in the Napoleonic period. This uniform was worn with minor variations
until 1843 when the Garde Husaren Regiment were first introduced
with a fur-covered form of headdress called a Pelzmtze (literally a fur
cap) which is commonly referred to as a Busby. Line and Leib Husaren
Regiments, however, wore a tall cylindrical helmet called "Flgelmtze"
(winged cap) which also coincided with a new uniform known as the
Attila. The "Flgelmtze" remained in use for Line and Leib Regiments
until 1850 when it was replaced by Pelzmtze already in use by the
Garde Husaren Regiment.
985
A detailed discussion of the development of the Pelzmtze (Busby) is far

beyond the scope of this guide, but a short overview will be presented
here. Issued Pelzmtze were a very tight black-dyed seal fur, except for
Husaren Regt Nr. 17 from Braunschweig who wore black-dyed bear fur.
Officer Busbies which tend to be much larger in volume, were covered
in brown otter fur up to 1912, grey opossum fur after 1912. Like the
Pickelhaube, the Busby evolved from the time of introduction until it's
final appearance in 1914. The majority of these changes, as with the
Pickelhaube, involved the height and various fittings such as chinscales.
For a more detailed examination of Pelzmtze, please see the "Imperial
German Helmet Patterns Guide" on this web site.
The Attila was made from doeskin wool and was cut short with sleeves
below the lower hem. Husaren Attila came in the greatest variety of
colors, and examples can be encountered in black, brown, red, dark
blue, light blue, and green. Five rows of ornamental braiding was worn
on the chest, as well as on the front, collar, cuffs and rear. This braiding
is found in white or yellow for Mannschaften (Other Ranks), silver or gilt
for officers. The braiding and buttons matched the color of the metal
fittings on the Pelzmtze (Busby).
The Husaren regiments where the men had cyphers were 2, 8, 13, and
15. All the others wore blank yellow or white cords. Officer, however,
wore cyphers in the above Regts, plus 16, 18, 19, and 20. Men did not.
HR7 got their cypher during the war, but like the units above, only
officers could wear it. Mannschaften shoulder straps on the M1909
Feldgrau Attila carried the number of the regt or the cypher in brass. In
1915 the Mannschaften shoulder straps carried cord numbers or
cyphers.
The color of the Kolpak (Busby bag) which hangs on the left side of the
Busby was also specific to the regiment. See the "Uniform Details for all
Husaren Regiments" at the top or bottom of this page for details.
986
987
Two Attila demonstrating white cording on the left and yellow cording on
the left. The Attila on the left is from Husarenen-Regt. Knigin Wilhelmena
der Niederlande (Hannoversches) Nr.15 and the right Attila is from
Magdeburgisches Husarenen-Regt. Nr.10. As with the other Regiments of
the Army, NCOs wore silver or gilt lace around the collar and cuffs from the
rank of Unteroffizier and above.
The back of the Attila, showing the cord frogging on the rear skirt. This
pattern is unique to Hussar Attilla. Attila liners and internal markings
were similar to the Waffenrock.
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) wore black breeches with white or yellow
braid, except for Sachsen (Saxon) regiments who wore blue breeches
with white or yellow braid. Officers in all regiments wore blue breeches
with silver of gilt lace, including the three Regiments which wore the
black Attila.
988
Back to the Imperial

German Uniform
Index
Uniform Details
Shoulder Strap Husaren Husaren Husaren
of all Husaren
Plate
Plate 1 Plate 2 Plate 3
Regiments
The Chevaulegers
989
Similar to the Dragoner in the Reich's Army,

Bayern (Bavaria) had Chevaulegers cavalry
regiments which operated as mounted
infantry. Although similar to a Ulan Ulanka in
cut, the tunic was known as a Waffenrock and
had some significant differences. The
Chevaulegers Waffenrock was Stahlgrun
(steel-green) in color which can appear almost
a dark olive-green. The collar, cuffs, shoulder
straps, and piping were in the regimental
facing color. Mannschaften (Other Ranks
wore cloth shoulder straps and officers wore
epaulettes or shoulder boards.
This example is for a Mannschaften (Other Ranks) in Kgl. Bayer. 1.

Chevaulegers-Regt. Kaiser Nikolaus von Ruland with burgundy
Regimental facing color and gilt buttons.. The shoulder straps of
Mannschaften were cloth and pointed, similar to foot troops and blank; no
numbers or cyphers were used by any of the eight Regiments. Officers
wore shoulder boards or epaulettes. Buttons were in gilt or silver and
matched the color of the metal fittings on the Bayern cavalry pattern
leather Pickelhaube. See the "Uniform Details for all Chevaulegers
Regiments" chart at the top or bottom of this page for details. Like Bayern
Ulan Ulanka, Chevaulegers Waffenrock were not piped on the left side of
the double-breast. Often confused with Bayern Ulan Ulanka, the shoulder
straps and Swedish cuffs are the most obvious ways to distinguish this
pattern as a Chevaulegers Waffenrock.
Unlike Reich's Ulanka or Waffenrock which are almost always made from
doeskin wool, Bayern cavalry Waffenrock and Ulanka are almost always
found in a thick, ribbed wool material similar to twill. Men and officers wore
trousers in a matching color with wide cloth side stripes in the Regimental
facing color.
990
The back of the Chevaulegers Waffenrock, showing the unique piping

arrangement. Note that the lower edge of the Waffenrock is also piped.
991
A view of the Chevaulegers Swedish cuffs, identical for all ranks. As with
the other Regiments of the Army, NCOs wore silver or gilt lace around the
collar and cuffs from the rank of Unteroffizier and above.
992
The Waffenrock with matching Mtze and Pickelhaube. The piping and band
on the Mtze are in the regimental facing color, while the fittings on the
Pickelhaube match the color of the buttons on the Waffenrock.
Model 1907/10 Feldrock
993
A.K.O 28 February 1910 announced the release of the new German

Feldgrau (field-gray) uniform, known as the M1907/10 Feldrock. The new
uniform was intended for field use only, and the old Dunkelblau uniforms
were maintained for all other occasions. The Feldrock was made of a
material called Tuch, which was a heavy wool Feldgrau (green-grey)
material. The new uniform was piped in regiment or branch of service
uniform colors, with colored piping sewn around the bottom edge of the
collar, on the front fly, on the cuffs and flaps, and the rear skirt formation.
Shoulder straps were a slip-on pattern and piped in Army corps colors or
unit
facing
colors
depending
on
the
unit.
The upper part of the cloth lining above the waist was white, and the
lower part including the rear skirts was grey. In the waist were fitted ties
to allow the wearer to adjust the waist for proper fit. Two large
removable hooks in the shape of buttons are attached above the rear skirt
formation and were used to carry the extra weight of the belt and it's
attached equipment. On the hips, two Tombac side hooks were sewn on
to also help distribute the weight.
994
Issued M1907/10 Feldrock had two lower external pockets secured by

buttons, private purchase M1907/10 Feldrock are found with or without these
pocket buttons..The cuffs on the M1907/10 Feldrock followed the patterns
found on the old Dunkelblau uniforms, and were made in Brandenburg,
Swedish or Sachsen (Saxon) patterns. The collar was a stand and fall design
with rounded corners secured with one or two sets of hooks. There was a cloth
tab and button under the collar to hold the collar vertical in inclement weather.
The M1907 was officially replaced for all German troops in early 1914 by
the M1913 Landstrurm Feldrock, which as its name implies, was a
simplified M1907/10 originally intended only for the Landsturm. The
primary differences, were the 1913 Feldrock had a simplified grey lining,
the belt hooks were sewn into the body, the waist ties were removed, and
the
cuffs
now
had
cloth
tabs.
This example of a Mannschaften (Other Ranks) issued M07/10 (1913)
Feldrock is from 2. Kurhessisches Infanterie-Regt. Nr.82 (Gttingen) XI
Armee Korps. The Feldrock is a regulation issue example in Feldgrau wool
995
with red wool piping.
Slip-on pattern M-07/10 shoulder straps have a tongue at the back which
enables the straps to be removable.
The list below indicates the primary Armee-Korps piping colors which is
reflected by the strap piping color. For officer boards, the underlay
matched the colors of the Mannschaften (Other Ranks) shoulder straps.
This applies only to Infantry and Artillery straps. Other arms such as
cavalry, Jger etc used piping not in alliance with Armee Korps.
996
Primary Armee-Korps piping colors:
White: I, II, IX, X, XII, & I Bavarian

Red: III, IV XI, XIII XV, XIX, & II Bavarian
Yellow: V, VI, XVI, XVII, & III Bavarian
Blue: VII, VIII, XVIII, XX
Green: XXI
Piping exceptions due to seniority and Regimental distinctions:
Infanterie Regiments 109, 110, 116
89th Grenadiers, Infanterie Regiments 111, 115, 168, 169, 171 and 172.
Infanterie Regiments 112, 118 and 142.
40, 113, 145 and 170.
997
On the M1907/10 Feldrock, the buttons were dulled brass or dulled silvergrey (with a few exceptions) which matched the color of the metal fittings
on the Pickelhaube.
All M1907/1910 buttons were rimmed and had either a crown or a Lion
(for Bayern) and came in two different sizes; 17mm for the lower front
pockets and 21amm for the front closure.
Company number buttons continued to be worn on the shoulder straps,
were also made from dulled brass of silver and also carried the rimmed
edging.
998
Cuff patterns generally followed those on the Dunkelblau Waffenrock, with

the exception that the cuff was fitted with a slit on the back seam and secured
with one or two horn buttons. This slit could be opened or closed as the
wearer desired.
In 1914 the slits on the back seam were replaced with cloth tabs to close
the cuffs.
Essentially, the rear of the M-07/10 Feldrock was identical to the M1895
Dunkelblau Waffenrock. The rear skirt had two large buttons attached
above the rear skirt formation which were used to carry the extra weight
of the belt and its attached equipment. In each rear skirt liner were two
pockets, which were accessed through a long vertical slit opening.
999
A view of the rear button hooks.

On the M1907/1910 these buttons were removable, on the 1913 Feldrock
shown here, the belt hooks were sewn into the body.
1000
A view of the cloth tab used to close the collar on issue M1907/1910
Feldrock.
1001
The 1913 version of the M1907/1910 Feldrock is completely lined in an offwhite/grey on the top and a grey/tan linen on the bottom. Note the two leather
reinforcements for the rear belt hooks and the first aid bandage pocket
mounted on the lower right of the lining. The liner was usually stamped with
Army Clothing depot markings and could include the year of the stamping,
issuing army corps, and size information.
1002
Jger and Schtzen

Jger and Schtzen did not wear Feldgrau M1910 Feldrocks. They wore a
Graugrn (grey green) Feldrock and headgear; it is very distinctive being
much more green. Please note that the Bavarians Jger did not wear Grugrn
(grey green); they wore Feldgrau.
Cavalry
Cavalry Regiments incorporated their distinctive uniform patterns with the
M1910 regulations. The uniforms were similar in appearance to the old
Dunkelblau patterns, but were now Feldgrau with the addition of pockets, cuff
slits etc. according to the new regulations. Click on the thumbnails below to
enlarge.
Model 1910 Vereinfachte (Simplified)

Feldrock
The war put pressure on German
industry to simplify the M1910
Feldrock (uniform). Vereinfachte
Feldrock were similar to M1910
tunics, but can be encountered
with, or without any combination
of the colored piping around the
bottom edge of the collar, on the
front fly, cuffs, or rear skirt
formation.
Collectors commonly refer to this
pattern of tunic as a "M1914"
tunic, which is incorrect. The
Vereinfachte Uniform appeared in
1915 before and during the issue
of the M1915 Bluse making the
term "M1914 uniform" quite
impossible. For Preuen the
Vereinfachte Feldrock was
introduced by AKO 03 March
1915. For Sachsen (Saxony) 16
March 1915, Wrttemberg 09
March 1915, and Bayern
1003
(Bavaria) 12 March 1915.
The cuff on Preuen Feldrock was

altered from the different cuff patterns to
a barrel cuff. Examples are encountered
with, or without the slit on the back
seam. Both Bayern (Bavaria) and
Wrttemberg authorized simplification
to their M1910 cuffs. Cavalry Regiments
followed suit and also incorporated the
Vereinfachte regulations with their
distinctive patterns of Feldrock.
Click to Enlarge
The link to this photo shows a very small selection of Vereinfachte

(simplified) shoulder straps worn by Mannschaften (Other Ranks) during
1915. This rather plain pattern of strap was introduced in 1915 which
remained Feldgrau but was void of piping. Shoulder straps were
manufactured without colored piping and are found with a variety of
attachment methods. Some retained the M1910 "tongue" for slipping
through the loop on the shoulder while others lack this attachment strap
and were intended to be sewn directly to the shoulder seam.
These straps were utilized until the introduction of the M1915/16 straps.
These straps often appear on M1910 Feldrock that have been re-issued, and
the Vereinfachte straps were added as the M1910 slip-on straps were no
longer available.
1004
The photo above shows a microscopic selection of Vereinfachte (simplified)

shoulder straps worn by Mannschaft (Other Ranks) on the M1910 Feldrock.
1. Kgl. Schs. 1. (Leib-) Grenadier-Regt. Nr. 100
2. Radfahrer Batl. Nr. 19 (Bicycle Battalion 19)
3. Kraftfahr-Batl. (Vehicle Bataillon )
4. Eisenbahn-Regt. Nr.1 (Railway Regt. Nr. 1)
5. Luftschiffer-Batl. Nr.3 (Balloon Bataillon Nr. 3)
6. Telegraphen-Batl. Nr.2 (Telegraph Bataillon Nr. 2)
7. FEA 1 (Flieger-Ersatz-Abtielung) (Flyer Replacement Detachment Nr. 1).
This example is for an officer from 8. Feldartill.-Regt. Prinz Heinrich von

Preuen Nrnberg III. Armee-Korps. , but it displays the key features
commonly found on Vereinfachte Feldrock. It maintains the eight button
front as found on M1910 Feldrock, but can be encountered with, or without
any combination of the colored piping around the bottom edge of the collar,
on the front fly, cuffs, or rear skirt formation. This example has black piping
on the cuffs and collar as well as red piping on the front opening and rear
skirt. Gone are the old pattern cuffs which have been replaced with a barrel
cuff.
1005
Model 1915/16 Bluse
1006
A.K.O 21 September 1915 announced the

release of completely new pattern of tunic
called the M1915. Bayern (Bavaria) did not
adopt the Bluse until 31 March 1916, so a
Bayern Bluse in known as a M1916 Bluse.
The Bluse was to be used by all units,
including cavalry. The tunic was made with a
looser cut than earlier uniforms, which
allowed heavier undergarments to be worn.
This cut also resulted in a greater degree of
mobility and comfort for the wearer. The
Bluse was completely void of piping and
utilized the simplified rear skirt design and
barrel cuffs of the Vereinfachte tunics.
Click to Enlarge
The stand and fall collar was made from an apple-green

cloth with rounded corners secured with one or two sets of
hooks. Like the M1910, there was a cloth tab and button
under the collar to hold the collar vertical in inclement
weather. Bayern opted to have a grey collar when they
adopted the Bluse in 1916. The front fly of the Bluse
concealed six horn buttons and the front of the tunic had
two lower external pockets secured by buttons. M1915
buttons are 23mm except for shoulder strap buttons which
are smaller. All buttons now carried a new pattern of
crown and lacked the rim of the 1910 buttons.
All previous forms of cuffs were made obsolete, and Bluse

from all arms utilized the barrel cuff.
Click to Enlarge
1007
Click to Enlarge
Issued Bluse were completely lined with a heavy

weight cotton or linen material, usually in grey. The
liner had a horizontal or vertical pocket at the wearer's
left breast or sometimes on both sides. In each rear
skirt liner was a long vertical slip opening, forming
two more pockets. Late-war linings of the M15 Bluse
are sometimes encountered with linings made from
commercial fabrics, such as striped material which was
not specifically made for military use.
A first aid bandage pocket was also mounted on the lower right of the lining.
The liner usually was stamped with Army Clothing depot markings and could
include the year of the stamping, issuing army corps, and size information.
The rimless crown buttons for the M1915 Bluse came in two different
sizes; 18mm for the shoulder straps, and 23mm for the lower pockets.
Note that the buttons have a common crown and lack the rim of the 1910
pattern buttons.
The Rank Buttons on M1915 Bluse were also changed to grey-painted

metal. 24 mm collar buttons designate the rank of Gefreiter. 30 mm collar
buttons indicate a rank of Sergeant and up.
1008
One feature of the new M1915 Bluse, were that shoulder straps were
standardized by the use of specific colors for each branch of service. The list
below indicates the primarily colors. For officer boards, the underlay matched
the colors of the Mannschaften (Other Ranks) shoulder straps.
Infanterie (Infantry) - Feldgrau with white piping. Red number or

cypher
Jger (light infantry) - Green with red piping and number or cypher
Feldartillerie (Field Artillery) - Red with yellow flaming bomb and
number or cypher.
Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery) - Yellow with yellow flaming bomb and
number or cypher.
Krassier (Heavy Cavalry) White with number and piping in the
Regimental facing colors.
Dragoner (Mounted Rifle)- Cornflower blue w/ number and piping in
the Regimental facing colors.
Pionier (Pioneer) - Black with red piping and number or cypher
Train (Supply) - Medium blue w/ red number
Ulan - Red with number and piping in the Regimental facing colors.
Verkehrstruppen (Telegraph, Flieger, Eisenbahn etc) - Light grey w/
red number and cypher.
Infantry Regiments with shoulder strap piping other than white due to
seniority and Regimental distinctions:
Red: 2nd Foot Garde Regt zu F, 2nd Guard Grenadiers, 8th

Grenadiers, 11 Battalion 89th Grenadiers, Infanterie Regiments 115 and
168.
1009
Yellow: 3rd Garde Regt zu F, 3rd Guard Grenadiers, Guard Fsiliers,

7th and 11th Grenadiers, Infanterie Regiment 118.
Blue: 4th Garde Regt zu F, 4th Guard Grenadiers, Infanterie
Regiments 117 and 145.
Green: 114th Reqt.
The link to this photo shows a very

small selection of M1915/16
shoulder straps worn by
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) on the
Bluse. I have attempted to show one
of each of the above list.
Click to Enlarge
Enlisted issue M1915 Bluse from 2 Hannoversches Inf.- Regt. Nr. 77 Celle X.
Armee-Korps. The Bluse was introduced in 1915 to replace the M10
Waffenrock. This example is a regulation issue Model 1915 feldgrau wool
with deep turned-back cuffs and an apple green collar. The front is secured
with six large concealed horn buttons. The remainder of the tunic buttons
are grey painted metal and are of the M1915 rimless pattern.
1010
Enlisted issue tunics are completely lined with a heavy weight cotton or linen
material, usually in grey. The liner had a horizontal or vertical pocket at the
left wearers breast or sometimes on both sides. This example has a small
watch pocket on the right breast, and a vertical slit pocket on the left breast.
1011
In each rear skirt liner is a long vertical slip opening, forming two more
pockets.
1012
The photo above shows a very small selection of shoulder straps worn by
Mannschaften (Other Ranks) on the M1915/16 Bluse. Arms of service now
came in a variety of colors so I have tried to show one of each color.
1. Fsilier-Regt. Knigin Viktoria von Schweden (1. Pommersches) Nr.34
2. Feldartillerie Abteilung Nr. 1052 (Field Artillery Detachment 1052)
3. FLAK Sheinwerfer-Ersatz-Abteilung (Search Light Replacement
Detachment)
4. Fuartillerie (Foot Artillery) Park Komp.
5. Kgl. Schs. 1. Pionier-Batl. Nr.12
6. Minenwerfer Abteilung Nr. 279 (Mortar Detachment 279)
7. Lothringisches Train-Bataillon Nr.16
8. Landsturm Infantry Batalion. Nr. 15, X Armee Korps
9. Krankentrger Kompanie Nr. 522 (Stretcher Bearer Company Nr. 522)
10. Dragoner Regt Nr. 15
11. Militarkrankenwrter Abteilung 1 AK (Medical Orderly Detachment of the
1st Army Corps)
12. FEA 10 (Flieger-Ersatz-Abtielung) (Flyer Replacement Detachment Nr. 10)
13. Eisenbahn-Regiment Nr.2
14. Starkstrom-Abteilung (Electrical Detachment) Nr. 2
1013
15. Ulanen-Regt. Groherzog Friedrich von Baden (Rheinisches ) Nr.7

16. Krassier-Regt. Herzog Friedrich Eugen von Wrttemberg
(Westpreuisches) Nr.5
17. Jger Btln. Nr. 21.
1014

Imperial German Headgear 1860 To 1910

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Imperial German Headgear 1860 To 1910

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Imperial German Dunkelblau

The Model 1842 Pickelhaube

In 1842, the King of Preuen (Prussia), Friedrich Wilhelm IV introduced

The helmet averaged 34 to 38 cm tall (approx. 15 inches) with a squared

supported on a cruciform spike base. For ventilation, two holes were

Side & Liner

Model 1842 Preuen Infantry Landwehr Pickelhaube

had a varied career. It appears that it was originally issued in 1842 to a

The line eagle Wappen (front plate) measures 125mm

holes in the front of the helmet shell.

A view of the Model 1842 Preuen Infantry

75mm leather Preuen Kokarde in the national colors of

and rigidity to the helmet body.

shell are all domed.

An exceptionally rare photograph of a soldier of the Preuen Infantry

Although commercial photographs on tin were available from August

I am not aware of any other photograph owned or in print, of an M1842

The Model 1856/57 Pickelhaube

An AKO dated 24 December 1857

M1860 Hannover Infantry Regiment 79

Older 1842 pattern eagle Wappen that were

Side & Liner

This period photo of an issued

Preuen (Hannover) Model 1860

A view of the M1860 Wappen (front plate) with the

A side view showing the high profile, typical for a Model

A rather scarce photograph of a

The Model 1867 Pickelhaube

M1867 Oldenberg Infantry Regiment 91

Side & Liner

Exceptions to the Model 1867 Pickelhaube

A side view showing the high dome of the helmet.

Model 1867 Preuen Garde Grenadier Pickelhaube

This helmet was worn by the following Regiments of

Kaiser Alexander Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.1

Kaiser Franz Garde-Grenadier-Regt. Nr.2 (Berlin)

A close-up of the Preuen swept-wing eagle Garde

This helmet shows evidence of being re-worked more

A view of the reverse of the eagle Wappen with the two

A view of the Model 1867 Preuen Garde Grenadier

once a back visor on an earlier pattern!

The Battle of Gravelotte-St. Privat

The incredible painting above is from my favorite

previous day intercepted the French army's retreat to

The casualties were horrendous on all sides; a total of

M1871 Preuia Eisenbahn Regiment

too weak without it.

Side & Liner

The Model 1887 Pickelhaube

Several changes were introduced in

Photo German Army Museum Rastatt

For Foot Troops, the brass chinscales were changed to an adjustable

To further aid in ventilation, the M1887 spike was significantly shorter

1888 by Grenadier Regt. Nr. 4,

The Model 1891 Pickelhaube

The features introduced in 1887 proved to be completely unsatisfactory; the

M1891 Preuen Infanterie Regt Nr. 83

Side & Liner

This period photo shows an issued

A view of the much lower profile of a M1891 helmet.

The Model 1895 Pickelhaube

M1895 Preuia Infantry Regt 31 Reserve

Side & Liner