Original Item: One Only. Much like our European cousins in the 1880s, the U.S. Army started to adopt spiked pith helmets, often in 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. While often referred to as "pith helmets" in the broad sense, it was made from cork, like many European variants, such as the Wolseley pattern used by the British.

This helmet dates to the late 1880s to early 1890s, and it really is quite striking. 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 brown fabric with a Raymold and Whitlock maker stamp on the top dome. Founded by Wiliam F. Raymold and Benjamin M. Whitlock, Raymold & Whitlock sold military uniforms, equipment and swords. It held large contracts for army helmets from 1881 to 1886. W.A. Raymold was a derivative of Raymold & Whitlock founded in 1881. Found at 39 West 14th Street, NY

The Helmet plate displays the Great Seal of the United States, with the American Eagle with a banner in its beak stating: E PLURIBUS UNUM. The "crossed sabers" on the shield indicate that it is for an Army Cavalry unit. The cavalry insignia was adopted in 1851. Officers and enlisted personnel assigned to cavalry regiments, cavalry squadrons or separate cavalry troops are authorized to wear the cavalry collar insignia in lieu of their insignia of branch when approved by the MACOM commander. Some of the armor and aviation units are designated cavalry units.

From the looks of the front plate, it is the original plate to the helmet and was not switched like ones we have seen in the past. The crossed saber side buttons are still present.

Very nice, great condition for age with loads of patina, ready to display!