Description
This is a canvas cover that was used on a kugelhelm when worn in the field. Before WW I, they were used in the field to protect the helmet’s leather body and metal hardware during rain and other foul weather. With the war began, in addition to protecting the helmet’s body the cover offered some camouflage and protection for the soldier. The pre war brass wappens had made excellent targets for enemy snipers. With the M-1915 helmets, the wappens became subdued and often covered with gray paint, which eliminated the shiny surface. The troops in the field continued to use these covers on their helmets, however, until the M-1916 stahlhelme replaced the pre war headgear.
The cover is made of natural cotton. It has an extra large sack to accommodate the kugel (ball) that was mounted atop the helmet rather than a spike. Inside the cover we see printed on three lines:
“R.D.
ULM
56”
“56” refers to the helmet size the cover could accommodate. Overall, it is in very fine condition, with the exception of fading due to age. It is an excellent accessory for your kugelhelm.
