Any info appreciated
- Thread starter Scottyk
- Start date
Unfortunately, some parts on this helmet do not belong there and are add ons. Here is what I see: the rear spine does not fit the curvature of the shell, the tang should not stick up like that, it is from a different helmet. The chin scales are also not original to the helmet. The scales are made for a helmet with Model 1891 side posts which this helmet does not have. The scales are also being held on by officer style round bosses and again do not belong. This is a government issued piece not a private purchase officer helmet. So this helmet has been pieced together with original parts but the parts are not original to the helmet.
Thank you for your info.. as a total newbie to these helmets I have a couple questions. I'm sorry if they are redundant.
As a depot issued helmet would it not have any stamps inside? I have seen many pictures with regiment and battalion info..
I was told the Ill fitting weapon and spine were due to age and shrinkage of the leather.. possible?
I am definitely not doubting you're expertise in this subject, just questions so I can learn
Thanks Scott
As a depot issued helmet would it not have any stamps inside? I have seen many pictures with regiment and battalion info..
I was told the Ill fitting weapon and spine were due to age and shrinkage of the leather.. possible?
I am definitely not doubting you're expertise in this subject, just questions so I can learn
Thanks Scott
No problem on questions that is one of the reasons for this forum, to help new collectors. So do not hesitate to ask. Regarding ink stamps, many helmets have them but others do not. It is quite legit for this piece not to have them. Concerning the spine and wappen ( helmet plate). Helmets can shrink in dry conditions but not the quarter inch we see here on that spine. I have handled and restored hundreds of helmets.... that is an add on. Original rear spines fit tight to the shell curve when manufactured. With shrinkage, the spine can flatten/deform or the soldered prong holding it to the shell will pop off from the pressure. A gap between shell and spine can also appear. Wappen as well fit precisely when manufactured, they are curved to fit the shell. After 100 years they leave marks in the finish and if not removed, have a century of dust behind them which creates a “ghost “ wappen on the shell. You should also look at the colour of fittings, does the patina of the wappen match the rest of the fittings? Much to consider here feel free to ask for clarification. I would also recommend looking at the posts in the restoration section and new finds section so you can see what good original pieces look like.
coert65
Well-known member
I agree with aicusv regarding the chinscales being painted. But I also noticed the front visor seems to fit reasonably good on the left side, but on the right seems way too far up. This when wearing the helmet, looking at it from the picture left is loose and way too far up, and rightside seems okay.
I'd like to see a picture with the scales up so we can see the frontvisor, and how it fits.
I'd like to see a picture with the scales up so we can see the frontvisor, and how it fits.
One last comment for new collectors.....if you purchase a helmet such as this with problems, you are in fact buying those problems. All of these helmets or militaria in general have to be resold down the road and you will be stuck explaining or giving excuses to convince someone to shell out money and take it off your hands! The top collectors do not buy "problem" pieces, they pay top buck for top quality and have very little problem reselling.
Yes it came from Kijiji in Ontario.. I will find out tonight if any parts have been painted.. some carefully applied thinner will solve that
In the long run I didnt pay enough for it to make me cry.. the knowledge gained is worth more than money.
I thank you all for your expertise
In the long run I didnt pay enough for it to make me cry.. the knowledge gained is worth more than money.
I thank you all for your expertise