Extremely rare model M89 helmet for a member of the Prussian Leibgendarmerie (Prussia König's bodyguard and escort).

Nickel-plated steel body with correct rear spine and central ridged front visor. Interior of helmet has a square-tipped black leather liner in very good condition. Green paint under the front visor and black paint to the rear “tail” and inner bowl. Signs of wear and use.

Crown of helmet has the correct vent and 6-hole configuration and is stamped with what appears to be the number “1184”. Unlike other helmets of the Leibgendarmerie that have recently come up for sale, this helmet is not maker marked or dated in the top of the bowl, and does not have a size stamp on the rear interior trim as is typical with these helmets. It appears that the body is of private purchase manufacture and was possibly produced for the Erste Wachtmeister of the regiment.

Attached to the M94 side posts are an excellent, correct set of rounded (cavalry style) tombac chinscales that are leather backed. The chinscales are complete and still retain both the buckle and tongue portions. These are finished off by a fantastic set of officer’s quality kokardes (Erste Wachtmeister) having the Reichs on the right side, and the Prussian on the left.

The frontplate is a beautiful large silver garde star with the 1862 motto banner, “Mit Gott Fur Koenig Und Vaterland” and central ring with the motto, “Suum Cuique” (to each his own) finished off with an enameled black eagle affixed to the center

Beautiful tombac up-swept winged eagle with attached disc under the tail feathers stamped with the number “25” which also corresponds with the number “25” stamped into the rear underside of the football base. The underside of the football base is also fantastically period marked with what appears to be names of the prior helmet owners.

Helmet comes with period correct fluted spike for service (dienst) wear when not on parade.

An extremely rare helmet in very nice condition. Original Leibgendarmerie helmets do not come up often and this is probably the nicest example to ever come to auction.