Prussian M1915 Pattern Pickelhaube

[RoyalScotsVols]

I have owned this Prussian M1915 pickelhaube for many years. Whilst examples of this type are fairly common, I've always thought that this one appeared complete and original. It is likely to be a 'conversion' looking at its liner and its 1914 date stamp, but the fittings are the correct M1915 pattern albeit the chinstrap buckles apear to be darkened brass. Its liner is complete with the leather drawstring - even the knot appears to have been in place for a very long time.

I've never been very sure of the markings, the '56' likely means the size but I don't know the meaning of those on the other side. The 'III' possibly refers to the corps but the first three letters are unclear. Any comments from more knowledgeable forum member would be welcome!

 

[Lars13]

Hi,
The B.I.A. III. mark refers to the Bekleidungs-Instandsetzung-Amt of the 3rd army corps, who were typically the ones repairing / converting these helmets.
Regards,
Lars

 

[RoyalScotsVols]

Hi,
The B.I.A. III. mark refers to the Bekleidungs-Instandsetzung-Amt of the 3rd army corps, who were typically the ones repairing / converting these helmets.
Regards,
Lars

Hi Lars,

Many thanks for your reply - I've wondered about those markings for years!

Cheers,

Jamie

 

[coert65]

I agree with Lars on this. What we also see, is the use of the dics usually for the chinstrap sideposts used as discs for the wappen leather retaining wedges, made of leather, as usual. It probably has those too for the chinstrap side posts.
I like the helmet.

Regards, Coert.

 

[RoyalScotsVols]

I agree with Lars on this. What we also see, is the use of the dics usually for the chinstrap sideposts used as discs for the wappen leather retaining wedges, made of leather, as usual. It probably has those too for the chinstrap side posts.
I like the helmet.

Hi Coert,

Yes, the chinstrap posts have been changed to steel - and you're correct, it looks like the rear discs from the original posts have been reused behind the wappen leather wedges. Thanks for pointing this out, I hadn't noticed this before.

Cheers,

Jamie