For opinions: Ersatz Mod. 1915 Prussian Inf. felt Pickelhaube

[Mike Davis]

Sirs, I'd like to get some opinions RE: originality and value for this one before posting on estand.

It has resided on a bookshelf for 15 years or so and is a bit dusty, but otherwise is as I found it. A portion of the liner appears to have been nibbled by a rodent. I note a line of removed stitching around the perimeter of the liner although it is machine sewn to the pressed felt body. The front plate's two tabs are affixed differently - one with a leather strip and the other with what appears to be a folded American matchbook cover.

Any observations regarding originality? Ideas about current value?

Many thanks in advance.

[Mike Davis]

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[Mike Davis]

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[Mike Davis]

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[Mike Davis]

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[nzef1940]

Totally original , I would estimate value at US$800-1000

[PlaceOfBayonets]

Totally original , I would estimate value at US$800-1000

Wow I knew a good halb when I saw it. I was saying while viewing it that it has to be a good one.

W.

[Hoss]

I Agree with W
Iam not really a pickel guy but these fragile helmets dont come
much better than this example.
Nice one Mike

Eric

[jerryrehr]

Nice. A one looker!
Look for markings on the rear visor.
They might be there as the ink is gone and if held right a ghost stamp can be seen at an angle.

Jerry

[1corps]

Love it! Looks totally original, chinstrap and all. Looks untouched to me with the only exception of the drawstring, which may be original to helmet also! Mike.

[Mike Davis]

Many thanks all. Any other estimates of value?

[1corps]

Mike, I would agree around $900-$1000 is a fair price. Mike.

[C. Roelens]

I'm with the others Mike... Nice helmet. However, the market is still very soft... the estimates might be a little on the high side unless you find someone who really needs this example for their collection.

Chuck

[PlaceOfBayonets]

Question: What does a bent Spike do for demerits on price? I note that one is slightly bent.

W.

[C. Roelens]

Question: What does a bent Spike do for demerits on price? I note that one is slightly bent.

W.

W.,

To someone who collects only the complete mint examples it probably will, as well as the damaged liner. For me it adds character to a worn lid. I'm not so sure the kokarden are the original matching pair that was placed on this helmet either... the black and white looks fresh. These helmets are tough to find in this condition. It would look good in your collection.

Chuck