Hessian field artillery helmet

[16thIrishDivision]

Hi, I’m thinking of purchasing a brass Hessian field artillery helmet - circa 1911. Thing is - it doesn’t have a crucifix base it’s rounded like other states. I’ve only ever seen crucifix base’s for Hessian haube’s - apart from wartime field greys. It’s listed with a reputable militaria dealer, see link with photos (copy & paste to address bar) militaria-online.de/cgi-bin/showart.pl?art=204. I’ve looked up some reference books/material I have with no joy. I’d appreciate it if someone with any info on this topic can help me out, cheers.

 

[Liongules]

Well, I'm not one of the most knowledgable folks here, but I believe all Hessian helmets had the cruciform base, so I would guess this is a helmet from somewhere else (probably Prussia) and has had the Hessian wappen put on it.

 

[b.loree]

My thoughts exactly....all my references have cruciform spike bases prior to the M15. If you can, I would check the back of the wappen for fresh solder or any other indication that one or more of the loops/screw posts have been moved. Look closely at the front of the shell with the wappen off...any enlarged holes or extra ones? In addition, is the helmet marked to a Hessen Regt, are there any markings at all? Brian