Description
Step into the esteemed history of the German army with the Leib-Garde-Husaren Attila for a One-Year Volunteer. The Leib-Garde-Husaren-Regiment stood among the most elite Husaren and cavalry regiments in the German army. Established in 1815 during the Napoleonic wars, it was stationed in Potsdam, alongside other important Garde-Regiments, and assigned to the Garde-Korps.
This Attila is specifically designed for a One-Year Volunteer, a unique enlistment program that allowed middle-class individuals, such as bankers or merchants, who were not of noble birth, to join the army. Unlike regular army conscripts with a two-year enlistment, One-Year Volunteers served for a single year, covering their own expenses, including uniforms and headdress. The army provided rifles as needed. A similar program existed in the Kaiserliche Marine. After completing their service, One-Year Volunteers typically entered the reserves and eventually rose to the rank of Feldwebel. Those showing exceptional potential could even achieve the rank of Leutnant der Reserve. This trend continued during World War I, where the expansion of the army and high casualty rates demanded a constant supply of new officers. The Imperial German Air Service also saw a significant number of reserve officers serving.
Crafted from red wool, the tunic features gold bullion loops adorned with two types of buttons. Barrel buttons secure the Attila, while circular floral buttons add decorative flair. Two barrel buttons are missing. Elaborate gold bullion and gold bullion tape designs embellish the sleeves, echoing the sleeve design. The shoulder straps accurately display the rank of a One-Year Volunteer, distinguished by a surrounding rope of black and white encircling the gilt shoulder strap. One shoulder strap, secured by a gilt button with the number “5” for the 5th Eskadron or Squadron, deviates from the use of “Kompagnie,” typically employed by infantry regiments.
On the reverse side, the same intricate design as seen on the sleeves adorns the Attila, albeit in a somewhat worn condition. The interior reflects officer-quality craftsmanship, as One-Year Volunteers frequented the same shops as officers. The silk liner remains in excellent condition. Overall, the Attila is deemed to be in fair condition, with a few moth nips and signs of moth tracking. Additionally, the tunic appears dirty and worn, but with some tender loving care, time, and effort, it can be restored to its former glory. Notably, there are missing buttons on the front of the tunic and one missing button for the shoulder strap.
While this Attila does not meet our usual standards for purchasing and offering, its origin from an elite regiment and connection to a One-Year Volunteer make it a noteworthy piece. Consequently, we have priced it accordingly. In better condition and without the listed defects, it would easily command twice the price.
Immerse yourself in the history of the German army with this Leib-Garde-Husaren Attila for a One-Year Volunteer, a tangible testament to the valor and dedication of those who served.
This rare and historically significant Attila is a must-have for any collector of German military history.
- Worn by a One-Year Volunteer, a unique program that allowed middle-class individuals to join the army
- From the prestigious Leib-Garde-Husaren-Regiment, an elite cavalry regiment with a proud heritage dating back to 1815
- Meticulously tailored from high-quality red wool
- Features gold bullion loops, buttons, and elaborate designs
- In fair condition, with some wear and tear
- The Attila was worn by a One-Year Volunteer, a unique program that allowed middle-class individuals to join the German army.
- The Leib-Garde-Husaren-Regiment was an elite cavalry regiment with a proud heritage dating back to 1815.
- The Attila is made from high-quality red wool and features gold bullion loops, buttons, and elaborate designs.
- The Attila is in fair condition, with some wear and tear, but it can be restored to its former glory with some TLC.
