Original U.S. Marine Corps Model 1892 Officer's Dress Spiked Helmet Fittings on Incorrect Helmet Body

Original Item: One Only. Much like our European cousins in the 1880s, the U.S. Armed Forces started to adopt spiked pith helmets, usually in dark navy blue or white, with all brass mounts and occasionally plumes. These saw active service in the Spanish American War of 1898 especially in the tropical climate in Cuba.

The helmet fittings date to the late 19th century, and are really quite striking on this helmet which we believe to be incorrect for an M1892 Marine Corps officer’s helmet. The seam splitting is correct, but the tip of the visor doesn’t come to a point, and the M1892 USMC helmets we have seen normally have a leather band around the body. This doesn’t conform to the M1881 helmet either however, so this is likely one of the helmets used by different state national guards during this period. Nevertheless, it certainly looks the part and will be a great placeholder for your collection.
This is not the type of helmet that was worn in the field, but instead one intended for use with the "dress" uniform for ceremonial occasions. It is beautifully made from cork covered with black fabric. This example is embossed on the interior vent as being made by The M.C. Lilley & Co. of Columbus, Ohio.

The Helmet plate displays the Iconic "Eagle, Globe, & Anchor" insignia of the United States Marine Corps. The helmet plate is in very good condition, with a bit of bending inward of the "globe" on the top. It is attached via two screwposts. The side cockades over the ears are of an Eagle on a Fouled Anchor. The helmet is missing the chin strap/scales.

The helmet overall does not show much use and was most likely put together for display purposes.

Very nice display example ready to display!