The most common wappen that the new collector will encounter next to the Prussian M15 is the brass M95. These are the wappen which were on issued pickelhauben when WW1 started in 1914. Here are two examples which exemplify this model:
These have never been cleaned or "messed with" during their 120+ year existence. I want you to take special note of the "gold wash" that was applied to these as part of the manufacture process. This was applied to simulate the "mercury frosting" of private purchase officer helmets and to protect the brass from tarnishing. The intent was that these would never have to be polished. Consequently new collectors.....DO NOT use some abrasive compound to clean these up. They can be gently cleaned with a soft tooth brush and dish soap or diluted ammonia.
The reverse side shows us the typical grey patina, puddled original solder and flattened feet on the loops. Above all though, we see the "splashes" of gold coloured wash on the orbs, tail feathers and sceptres. These were stamped on different dies as there are subtle differences in the eagle beaks. One has horizontal soldered loops while the others' are more diagonal. So, as usual we see pieces which passed regulation but were never exactly the same. Happy hunting friends, and as Christmas approaches......time to treat yourself to some new helmets!!
These have never been cleaned or "messed with" during their 120+ year existence. I want you to take special note of the "gold wash" that was applied to these as part of the manufacture process. This was applied to simulate the "mercury frosting" of private purchase officer helmets and to protect the brass from tarnishing. The intent was that these would never have to be polished. Consequently new collectors.....DO NOT use some abrasive compound to clean these up. They can be gently cleaned with a soft tooth brush and dish soap or diluted ammonia.
The reverse side shows us the typical grey patina, puddled original solder and flattened feet on the loops. Above all though, we see the "splashes" of gold coloured wash on the orbs, tail feathers and sceptres. These were stamped on different dies as there are subtle differences in the eagle beaks. One has horizontal soldered loops while the others' are more diagonal. So, as usual we see pieces which passed regulation but were never exactly the same. Happy hunting friends, and as Christmas approaches......time to treat yourself to some new helmets!!
