In 1872 cavalrymen were issued helmets with plumes as part of the full dress uniform. (Students still argue over whether it was British, German or even Russian influence.) Minor changes were made in 1881 to the helmet and helmet plate, but headgear remained regulation until 1902. This is the 1881 version of the plate that retained a stamped brass version of the arms of the U.S. but omitted an overhead E Pluribus Unum ribbon that was subject to being broken off, substituting a ribbon clutched in the eagle’s beak and stamped as part of the main section of the brass plate. This is a very nice original example of the cavalry helmet plate for enlisted men, showing two crossed sabers under the Union shield on the eagle’s breast. The face shows pretty much all of the original gilt finish, somewhat muted in tone from oxidation. The reverse has three soldered fastening loops in place and is slightly brighter from less exposure, with one small brown spot. This is a very nice example of a regulation Indian Wars US cavalry helmet plate.  [sr]

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