Saxon 1st Horse Regiment helmet, 1867 model, ORs, German (c 1867-75)

Title	Saxon 1st Horse Regiment helmet, 1867 model, ORs
Nationality	German
Period	c 1867-75

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This regiment took part in the Franco-Prussian War of 1871, serving at Gravelotte, Sedan and the Siege of Paris in the army commanded by Gen Crown Prince Albert of Saxony. The regiment fought with the 1st Infantry Division as divisional cavalry under Lt Gen Prince George of Saxony.

The 1st Horse was converted into 1st Saxon Hussars (18th in Prussian line) in 1875, exchanging their dragoon helmets for fur busbies.

The body of the helmet is of black boiled leather with brass fittings and a brass helmet plate with a white metal centre showing the Saxon coat of arms. It has the original green and white cockade of Saxony on the left hand side. The paintwork of this is somewhat worn, but it is undoubtedly the original cockade. There is typical crackelure throughout the leatherwork and the odd dent to the brasswork.

The amazing thing with this helmet is the survival of the original kapok stuffed red woollen comb. There is a small tear to the chin strap securing leather and a small tear to the inside of the liner. Otherwise the helmet is in good shape.

The Osprey series of publications - German Armies of 1870-71: Prussia's allies, vol 2 - mentions the Garde Reiter and three 'Horse' regiments. This helmet would have been worn by the latter three units.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.

[Militaria : Headdress : German : 19th Century]

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