US Indian Wars Era Enlisted Cavalry Helmet Complete
This item is listed for historical interest only. It was listed on our site previously but has been sold and is no longer available for purchase.
Sold for: $650.00

Original era manufacture. A very clean, 1881 pattern Horstmann contract body which is size marked 6 7/8. The sweatband is pliable enough to pull down to check the stamp, however it is lightly stamped and not clear as to date, however a QMC stamp is also present. The sweatband is loose in several spots from the helmet body.  The body is not crushed or broken, the edge binding is intact with scattered cracks, and minor scuffing, no areas of missing leather. The thin leather band around the base of the helmet is sound, as is the original chinstrap. Original horsehair plume, with original metal fittings, with a Cavalry plate, with the number 1 at center for 1st Regiment, United States Cavalry. There are no extra holes in the body behind the plate, or the other metal fittings, with the helmet being held in place with thin leather wedges. The helmet body cords are lemon yellow, while the plume and body cords are dark yellow. The helmet cords, while of good quality, I believe to be of more modern manufacture, showing fading discoloration from years of display. The body cords I believe to be of the period, exhibiting some scattered repairs to the cording. They are not attached to the body cords, having a small copper hook to make the attachment for display.   Assembled from original parts, at one time available from the venerable firms of Francis Bannerman and W. Stokes Kirk. Please note, the black and white image of the soldier is not included with the helmet, he is shown for effect only.