Original Item: Only One Available. A stunning textbook example of an M-1915 Imperial Prussian Line Infantry enlisted man's Mannschaften (other ranks or EM / NCO) pickelhaube in good condition. The M1915 was the last model of Pickelhaube issued prior to the move to steel helmets. In accordance with the 1915 regulations, these helmets would no longer use brass, silver, or Tombak as the M1895 did. All issued Pickelhaube would now use gray oxidized steel fittings for all Regiments. As with previous versions, the body was constructed from boiled leather, which was shaped and lacquered black.

This helmet features an oxide plated steel frontplate (wappen), and the crown of this leather helmet displays a vented enlisted removable spike mounted on a steel baseplate, which is which is still able to be removed properly. There is also a small adjustable vent on the spine that supports the rear skirt, only seen on the enlisted helmets, which is frozen. The front wappen features a crowned Prussian state eagle clutching a scepter and orb in its claws, over the King's motto, MIT GOTT FÜR KOENIG UND VATERLAND (With God for King and Country, i.e. Prussia). The wappen retains the original leather retaining wedges.

Unfortunately all steel components were repainted in a light matte silver colored paint, most likely done in attempts at restoring it back to it’s natural beauty. The paint is chipped in areas showing the oxidation on the bare metal it once covered.

It is complete with original cockades around the lugs but unfortunately appear to have been ground dug and no longer retains any traces of paint. For historical purposes: In 1897 the new Reichs-Kokarde in Red-White-Black 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, as on this helmet.

The attached original chin strap is in fair condition, but is unfortunately broken in the front center which was then in turn glued back together, more than likely done when the steel was repainted. The original liner is present and in good condition. The liner is still soft, but is cracked and slightly torn but complete. There is wear around the edges as soon in the photos and the top leather thong is present. Strangely enough, a metal band was fitted around the circumference of the helmet to retain its shape but it also unfortunately degraded the lining.

The exterior of the helmet shell is in good condition, with very little change to the shape, and the black enamel still exhibits a nice sheen. There are areas of cracking and checking, but they just serve to add to the lovely patina of age. The front and rear visors are loose and slightly misshapen with stitching loss and the rear visor being mostly detached and held on with glue.

Overall a very nice condition Imperial Prussian pickelhaube, perfect for any WWI collection!