Original Item: Only One Available. Much like our European cousins in the 1880s, the U.S. military adopted 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 United States Marine Corps USMC Officer's helmet is dated 1899 under the sweatband and 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 beautifully made from cork covered with black fabric and offered in truly excellent condition.

The Helmet plate displays the Eagle Globe Anchor device to the front, gilt spike and concentric ring chinstrap. Size is approximately US 7 (56cm).