Germany, Imperial. A Prussian Army EM/NCO’s M1895 Pickelhaube

(Heer Pickelhaube). A Prussian Army EM/NCO’s M1895 Pickelhaube, constructed of a reinforced blackened leather shell. Affixed to the crown with four rivets is a circular bronze disc from which emanates a tapering spike of identical construction. A curved bronze bar meets the disc and extends down through the back of the Pickelhaube. Riveted to the peak is a bronze insignia consisting of a highly-detailed Prussian imperial eagle, clutching an orb and sceptre, and overlaid by a monogram of King Friedrich II (“the Great”) and a stylized banner bearing an inscription of “MIT GOTT FÜR KOENIG UND VATERLAND” (“WITH GOD WITH KING AND FATHERLAND”). The eagle measures 125 mm (w) x 85 mm (h). Flanking the Pickelhaube are magnetic metal rosettes, with the left featuring a Prussian black-and-white colour scheme and the right presenting with an Imperial tricolour motif. The rosettes secure in place an original single-piece black leather chinstrap, adjusted with dual magnetic metal buckles. When not in use, the chinstrap rests upon a protruding and downward-pointing visor, trimmed along the edge with a bronze reinforcement. An additional visor also descends from the back, providing partial neck protection. The interior presents plain, with the exception of visible butterfly clips securing the exterior features in place. Unmarked, the Pickelhaube measures approximately 175 mm (w) x 235 mm (l) x 210 mm (h) (inclusive of spike). A number of issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include material fatigue and cracking of the leather, slight oxidation of the bronze features and partial detachment of the bronze visor reinforcement, and total loss of the interior liner. It is in an overall fair condition.