The Pickelhaub that went around the world.

COVER - SPIKED HELMET, M1884/92: This was the FIRST helmet cover designed for camouflage, but this 1892 cover is made on the 1884 pattern where the boot is an integral part of the cover. This one is rather rare as it was made in the "rush green" which has faded out over time. Technically, this first "color" cover was made in 1892 and modified with cloth strips holding the spike boot (to accomodate different size spikes). This cover was made on the 1884 pattern, so it is a transitional piece, being the very first type made for camouflage purposes but using the old pattern. Marked "58" inside, EXC condition w/sun fading with correct brass hooks to hold it on the helmet. All original, a very rare transitional spiked helmet cover that can be dated to 1892. Have never seen an 1892 cover like this.
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I don't understand this description at all. This looks nothing like an 1884. Probably is some sort of 1892 variant with inadequate ventilation. Like the example I showed above these existed but this goes back to my argument that there is a basic misunderstanding of Probe. I think the word transitional is poor. A variant based on local acquisition is in my opinion more likely.

The misunderstandings seem to trace all the way back to the 1930s, where an article by Doctor Klietmann and Pietsch in a renowned journal seems to have made several errors in fact. Nonetheless this is still somewhat controversial as modern references continue to cite Pietsch in error, and others consider this to be an a priori argument based on a lack of understanding of Probe during mobilization. The opinion of this author is that the existence of pictures and examples provide prima facie evidence that the selected Probe examples did not always follow the AKO. This becomes even more obvious if the critic were to consider the AKO that gives Probe guidance on 3 February1897.
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I do not have the energy to reengage on all of the ad hominem attacks made on me related to this issue. That is my opinion and that is all it is.
 
Makes sense - Thank you. I've never seen anything that stated there were particular Models or patterns for the covers (IE model 1897 or pattern 1901). Given the way German production contracts appear to have been given out, it would lend to numerous variations.
 
Thought I would post an up date on this helmet. After a little cleaning I was able to locate a Wappen and kokades (originals) for it. The chin strap has original base hardware with replaced leather. I do have a front visor guard, but haven't worked up the courage to fit it to the helmet (afraid of damaging the lining).
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It looks great, well done! If you were to decide to wash the uberzug, I would use Woolite which is made for delicate fabrics. I would wash it by hand and let it air dry on its own.
 
So far I have not done anything with the cover. Would like to know what color the numbers actually are.
 
Regarding your helmet....it is missing the visor trim but still has the 2 split brads on each side for holding that trim on. So, someone took those brads out threw away the split trim pieces and then put the brads back in place. Interesting. I think you mentioned that you have a piece of trim that would fit, putting that on is not going to hurt the liner. The main thing, is that it matches the curve of the visor, if it does, then you have been very lucky.
 
Curve is close to the visor's. My concern about the lining is folding it down and my handling it. The liner is complete and not damaged, but old. Also the sting is still there and tied. I have to untie it and loosen it, don't know if it will take it.
 
Well, with those concerns, best to leave it alone. Having or finding visor trim that would fit is extremely rare. I have at least a dozen in my parts drawer and still there are no guarantees of success.
 
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