Original Imperial German WWI Pickelhaube Spiked Helmet Officer’s Leather Carry Case with Intact Straps

Original Item. Only One Available. Germany’s Pickelhaube helmet, distinguished by a lone spike jutting straight from its top, became a symbol of Prussian militarism in the early 20th century. Introduced by the Prussian military in 1843, the Pickelhaube was originally proposed for use by cavalry troops. The helmets, made of pressed leather, were developed as an updated solution to the conical shako hats worn by Prussians during the Napoleonic Wars. Napoleonic-era shakos offered virtually no head protection and were cumbersome to wear in wet conditions, as they easily soaked up rain. The Pickelhaube, therefore, was greeted as a practical modern invention. The new “leather helmets” or “helmets with spikes” gave soldiers’ greater head covering and visibility.

This is a scarce Imperial German Pickelhaube leather carrying case, which is meant to accompany German Officers’ pickelhaube spiked helmets. This example still retains the leather straps that are almost always broken off. The case has a small leather carrying strap at the top, and a long strap that is inserted through two leather loops on the bottom lid to secure it via the buckle on the side.

This example when closed measures 9 ¾ x 11 ¼ x 11 ½”. The leather straps show heavy crazing and some cracking, but they are unbroken. The interior has a nice striped lining with minor staining. 

Ready to pair with your pickelhaube!