German WWI Hesse Dragoon Pickelhaube

A scarce example of a Hessian Dragoon pickelhaube, featuring a large leather skull with overall surface crazing. Both front and rear peaks are firmly attached, with all stitching between the peaks and skull still strong and intact. All fittings are in white metal, indicating issue to either Dragoon Regiment 24 or 25 of the state of Hesse. The helmet retains its correct domed chin scales for mounted troops, the rare and distinctive Hessian fluted spike, and a much earlier pattern, large-size Hessian painted state cockade, paired with a later Prussian officer’s cockade.

One securing dome on the spike’s cross base is missing, and one chin scale side cap has been replaced. The interior features the correct 18-tongued NCO-style liner. The white metal fittings have taken on a warm semi-gilt tone, likely from prolonged exposure to a smoke-filled environment. A rare and desirable piece of Hessian cavalry headgear.

Ref; 91858