The History and Evolution of World War I & II Helmets: Part II

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The Pickelhaube was a spiked helmet worn in the 19th and 20th century by German military. The early Russian models had used the spike as a holder for a horsehair plume, but German models were unornamented from the start.


The basic Pickelhaube was made of hardened leather, given a glossy-black finish, and reinforced with metal trim that included a metal spike at the crown. Early versions had a high crown, but the height gradually was reduced and the helmet became more fitted in form. Some versions were worn by German artillery units employed a ball-shaped finial rather than the pointed spike. The Russian version initially had a horsehair plume fitted to the end of the spike, but this was later discarded in some units. The Russian spike was topped with a small ball, with the spike emerging from it.


Aside from the spike finial, perhaps the most recognizable feature of the Pickelhaube was the ornamental front plate, which denoted the regiment's province or state. The most common plate design consisted of a large, spread-winged eagle, the emblem used by Prussia.


This post is 2 of a 4 part series. Please read on and enjoy. Also, if you are interested in more information on WWI and WWII Collectible weapons, uniforms and accessories, visit The Historical Weapon Store for a wide variety of quality replicas.