A scarce original Imperial German Jäger zu Pferde (Mounted Rifles) cavalry lobster-tail pickelhaube. Constructed in blackened steel with bright nickel-silver fittings, including the Prussian eagle wappen plate, spike, trim and rear lobster-tail neck guard. The front plate bears the crowned eagle of Prussia with spread wings, inscribed with the motto “Mit Gott für König und Vaterland” (“With God for King and Fatherland”). Fitted with both national and state cockades, original chinstrap, and complete interior liner.
The interior retains its tan leather nine-tongued liner, intact and supple, with drawstring present. The maker’s mark “Helbing u. Sackewitz” is stamped to the inner crown, a recognised Berlin supplier of officer and enlisted helmets before and during WW1. The rear visor is stamped with the size “56.”
Historical Note:
The Jäger zu Pferde regiments were created in 1901 as a new type of Imperial German light cavalry, intended to act as mounted infantry with rapid mobility, but wearing helmets patterned on the heavy cavalry cuirassier style. Their distinctive blackened metal lobster-tail pickelhauben with tall spikes quickly became an iconic symbol of the Kaiser's mounted arm.
At the outbreak of the First World War, the Jäger zu Pferde rode in full parade gear, but the changing nature of trench warfare soon curtailed traditional cavalry operations. Many regiments fought dismounted, retaining their helmets for ceremonial and rear-area use. Surviving examples, particularly enlisted issue, are rare today, as many were destroyed, converted, or retained only in officer form.
*Condition*
This helmet remains in very good original condition. The blackened body is sound, showing only light surface wear and expected age marks. The fittings are bright with minimal tarnish, the spike and wappen plate remain crisp, and the cockades retain strong colour. The liner is intact with even stitching, showing only light use and some age-related wear, but no major losses. The maker’s stamp is clear, and the size “56” is struck to the rear visor. Overall, a well-preserved and desirable cavalry helmet. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
