M15 Uffz mit Portepee and Offz Kokarden

[Lost Skeleton]

Undoubtedly, this presentation will be more show than tell, but I find these Kokarden variants interesting because the ferrous trim suggests adaptation to the requirements of M15 helmet construction and accoutrement. First on display is a set of Preußen Unteroffizier mit Portepee M91 Kokarden. The distinctive UmP trim ring is magnetic. Close-up examination reveals a protective coating of zinc phosphate to inhibit glare and rust.

In all other respects, these are identical to their silver ring counterparts.

The next example is a Preußen Offizier Kokarde designed for use with the Knopf 91 system employed by M15 pattern Offizier helmets.

This specific Kokarde was attached permanently by the Knopf 91 as in the following configuration:

Like the Uffz Kokarden, the trim ring is ferrous and coated with zinc phosphate solution. The protective lacquered cardboard backing has been eliminated as there is no possibility of the Kokarde rotating (and thereby scuffing the helmet).

Chas

 

[Larmo]

Nice presentation, excellent photographs. I don't believe I ever have paid attention to the officer pattern kokarden before, very cool.... :thumb up:

Larry

 

[J.LeBrasseur]

Cool stuff, nice looking kokarden!

James

 

[Lost Skeleton]

Thanks for looking, Larry and James.

The more conventional pattern Offizier Kokarde for the Knopf 91 is removable. The example below also has a ferrous ring; this time with a silver wash applied (in lieu of zinc phosphate):

Before acquiring the Preussen Offizer Kokarde with the "cloverleaf" hole, I had a rough idea how it was prepped for being staked in place by the split prongs and pins of the Knopf 91. However, I had never seen one "on the loose."

Chas