Germany, Imperial. A Composite Pickelhaube

(Pickelhaube). A composite Pickelhaube, constructed of a boiled and blackened leather shell. Situated atop the crown is an oxidized magnetic metal spike, perforated around the neck with ventilation holes, and which is secured in place with a cross-shaped baseplate with four rivets. A magnetic metal bar emanates from the back of the baseplate and extends down to a boiled and blackened leather neck guard. Riveted to the peak is an insignia consisting of a gilded bronze plate bearing a central crowned Bavarian coat of arms, flanked on each side by lions rampant, and set above a banner bearing an inscription of “IN TREUE FEST” (“STEADFAST IN LOYALTY”). The plate measures 14.5 cm (w) x 9.5 cm (h). It is flanked by non-magnetic metal studs which secure in place a black leatherette chinstrap, adjusted with dual bronze buckles. Situated beneath the studs are magnetic metal cockades, with the left side painted in a red, white, and black Imperial tri-colour motif, while the right side bears a Prussian black and white colour scheme. The exterior features are completed with a protruding boiled and blackened leather visor, with the rim reinforced by a magnetic metal bar. The interior retains a black leather liner, which culminates in nine fingers, each perforated at the top with an eyelet through which is looped a period original leather drawstring. A name of “ANGERS FAUCHEUX” is hand-written onto the crown in white ink, while a further illegible handwritten black ink inscription is visible on the interior of the forehead. Otherwise unmarked, the Pickelhaube measures approximately 18 cm (w) x 25 cm (l) x 21 cm (h). In addition to the mis-matched and replaced insignia, it demonstrates issues consistent with age and wear, including loss of finish and minor oxidation to the metal fixtures and fatigue of the leather shell and liner. This composite example is in an overall fair condition.