SEE BELOW FOR DESCRIPTION

G010966 DUCHY OF SAXE-ALTENBURG MANNSCHAFTEN (EM’S) ISSUED ERSATZ FILZHELM.

DESCRIPTION: Ersatz issued Model 1895 Filzhelm (felt helmet) for 8. Thüringisches Infanterie-Regt. Nr.153 (Altenburg, III Bn Merseburg) IV Armee Korps. This pattern of Ersatz (replacement) Filzhelm (felt helmet) was manufactured c.1914 from thin stiffened felt as a Model 1895 with brass fittings with front visor trim and rear M95 vented spine. As is typical for an Ersatz Filzhelm, the liner is sewn completely around the circumference and the stitching is visible on the exterior.

CONDITION: This rare example of Ersatz Filzhelm is an excellent example with all original fittings. All brass fittings appear to be original to this Filzhelm and match in age, wear, and colour. Nice crisp very rare Duchy of Saxe-Altenburg Wappen worn by 8. Thüringisches Infanterie-Regt. Nr.153. Correct "FÜRST" above the Saxe Wappen on the Bandeau. This helmet is what I call a "Friday afternoon production" as the rear M95 vented spine is too short and does not come under the spike base, but it was slapped on and a brass brad added to the tongue to keep it in place, which has broken. There is a split on the underside of the front visor trim which goes completely through, but the trim remains firmly in place. There is a small brass wire loop at the bottom of the rear spine to hang the helmet on a nail or whatever, not sure if it is original, but there it is. The spike base is missing one spilt retaining brad and one has been replaced (thin pins). Rare Saxe-Altenburg Kokarde on the left with only light wear to the high areas of the green paint and wonderful age crazing to the white. Incorrect Prussian Kokarde on the right side. Should be replaced by a correct Reich’s Kokarde. Dark brown chinstrap is original showing just light age. The felt body is in excellent condition and made from a thin felt with no wear or damage. The helmet body has two holes which are grommeted in brass and fit the M95 Saxe-Altenburg Wappen (front plate) perfectly. Both V-shaped leather wedges remain intact. The helmet is a huge melon size, must be a 61 at least. The guy was a monster. The vegetable-tanned black lamb skin leather 9-finger liner is stitched together at the rear. The liner is in excellent condition showing no wear or damage, just nice age toning. Very desirable ink stamp on the rear visor "BA IV' (Bekleidungsamt IV = clothing depot IV army corps) correct for 8. Thüringisches Infanterie-Regt. Nr.153. as well as original owner’s name written inside in ink.

PRICE $1,975.00

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