Description
Original Model 1915 pattern Imperial Prussian enlisted man’s Pickelhaube
This Imperial Prussian enlisted man’s Pickelhaube is a well-preserved example of the Model 1915 pattern, the final wartime evolution of Germany’s iconic spiked helmet. Adopted in response to material shortages and the demands of industrialized warfare, the M1915 regulations mandated the elimination of brass, silver, and Tombak fittings in favor of grey-oxidized steel. Nevertheless, period variations and the use of existing pre-war stocks resulted in mixed-fitting helmets such as this example, which retains a brass Prussian frontplate (Wappen) depicting the heraldic eagle clutching scepter and orb beneath the traditional crown.
The leather body retains its lacquered finish, showing honest age, light crazing, and stable wear consistent with frontline or garrison use. The helmet’s removable vented enlisted spike is mounted on a brass baseplate and remains firmly seated, reflecting the transitional construction seen in late-war production. The original chinstrap is secured by two side posts, one of which bears the national kokarde in red, white, and black, while the opposite side displays the Prussian black-and-white kokarde, both showing authentic age toning.
The interior structure and leather shell remain in sound, serviceable condition, uncommon for helmets now more than a century old. The overall presentation is consistent with late-war Imperial German equipment still produced in leather before the army completed its shift to the all-steel M1916 Stahlhelm.
As a representative example of the M1915 Pickelhaube, this helmet offers an excellent study piece for collectors, historians, and museums. Its combination of wartime construction, mixed fittings, well-preserved lacquered leather, and intact kokarden highlights the logistical realities of World War I production and the final chapter of the Pickelhaube before its replacement by modern steel combat helmets.
