Original U.S. WWI Era Punitive Expedition 9th Cavalry Regiment Private Purchase Officer’s Model 1912 Campaign Hat

Original Item. Only One Available. This is an attractive private-purchase example of the scarce Model 1912 High Crowned Campaign Hat with an Officer’s cord and an insignia of the 9th Cavalry regiment affixed to the front. In 1916, the 9th Cavalry was dispatched to the Mexican border to serve as part of the Pancho Villa Expedition commanded by General John "Black Jack" Pershing. The Regiment crossed the Rio Grande into Mexico and was successful in stopping the border raids conducted by bandits of Pancho Villa who had expanded their criminal operations into the United States, and had brought death to American citizens.

The hat is in excellent condition considering it is well over 100 years old! The fine fur felt is in very good condition, with no extensive mothing or damage. The original crown band ribbon is intact, but the original chinstrap is broken in half. The sweatband indicates manufacture by Bailey’s, Inc. of Chicago, Illinois. The 9th Cavalry insignia is above what looks like where an insignia originally was.

This is a fantastic opportunity to pick up a scarce M1912 campaign hat with an original unit insignia with a great history. Don’t miss it! Comes ready for further research and display.