Prussia, Kingdom. An Enlisted Personnel Model 1895 Shako, by Alexander Dahl

(Tschako M1895 für Mannschaften). A very well-preserved Prussian Model 1895 shako, constructed of a boiled and blackened leather shell. It features a flat canister-style crown of separate construction, securely held in place by a row of machine stitching along the outer circumference. The shell is flanked on each side by blackened magnetic metal discs perforated with seven ventilation holes. A rear protrusion culminates in a neck guard, similarly held in place with machine stitching. A hollow channel set into the peak is inserted with a ribbed and cascading oval cockade, constructed of silvered bronze with a blackened centrepiece. Riveted to the front directly beneath the cockade is an oxidized magnetic metal insignia consisting of a radiant eight-pointed starburst bearing a central Prussian imperial eagle circumscribed by an inscription of “SUUM CUIQUE” (“TO EACH HIS OWN”), in turn surrounded by an inscription of “MITT GOTT FÜR KÖNIG UND VATERLAND 1860” (“WITH GOD FOR KING AND FATHERLAND 1860”). The plate measures 9.5 cm (w) x 9.5 cm (h). It is flanked on each side by magnetic metal studs which secure in place a black leather chinstrap, adjusted with two magnetic metal buckles. When not in use, the chinstrap rests upon a protruding black vulcan fibre visor. Secured in place beneath the studs are magnetic metal cockades, with the left side painted in a Prussian black and white motif, while the right side has a red, white, and black Imperial tri-colour scheme. The exterior features are completed with a protruding boiled and blackened leather visor. The interior retains a brown leather liner which consists of nine leather fingers, perforated at the top with holes for the accommodation of a drawstring which has been lost to time. Stamped onto the crown in black ink is a maker’s mark of “ALEXANDER DAHL, BARMEN”, topped by a size mark of “57”. The shako measures approximately 13.5 cm (w) x 26 cm (l) x 18.5 cm (h) (inclusive of cockade). Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include oxidation and loss of finish to the metal features, and moderate deterioration of the interior liner. The shako remains in an overall better than very fine condition.