Unknown colonial helmet

[GreatWarGreatMilitaria]

Hey All,

Saw this at the SOS this weekend. I’m thinking it’s a Franken Helmet. The front visor has a weird felt glued onto it and the leather band isn’t giving good vibes either. And the spike looks like something off an administration helmet. It was made of cork and covered in fabric. Anyone see something like this before or in a reference book? I was very well made.

Thoughts?
Jay

 

[Steve Nick]

I can understand your puzzlement. It is quite well made and the parts appear to be original. Doesn't look like it was ever worn.

Not something I'd be prepared to drop 10 grand on though.

 

[CLOVIS 57]

Hey All,

Saw this at the SOS this weekend. I’m thinking it’s a Franken Helmet. The front visor has a weird felt glued onto it and the leather band isn’t giving good vibes either. And the spike looks like something off an administration helmet. It was made of cork and covered in fabric. Anyone see something like this before or in a reference book? I was very well made.

Thoughts?
Jay

Hello,
difficult question, complicated answer. My opinion is that this is an authentic Eigentum helmet for South West Africa. Either for a high-ranking official with the rank of diplomat. I simply think that the cap has been re-sewn, as the hand stitching is not of the quality required for such a headdress. The details of the tip and its base, and the silver Reichsadler, show that this is not a Schutztruppen officer, but a high-ranking official. I know of other helmets of this type, but as they are made individually by hatters, they are not “regulation.” I have other references.

Below, two officers' helmets

And a helmet for senior administrative officials (administrators, diplomats, etc.) helmet:

But it's the kind of object that's best seen in person, to be appreciated.