A REGIMENTALLY MARKED FRENCH MODEL 1886 OFFICER'S KEPI

$395.00

Quantity Available: 1

Item Code: 88-202

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This one would date ca. 1910-14 in manufacture and was used in the opening battles of World War One 1914/15. The turban of the cap is red broadcloth cloth and it is 2 1/2-inches high. There is a black band below this (2 inches high). A gold braid knot called " la Hongrie" is on the top of the cap. The 2nd Lieutenant rank braid front, top, sides and back "a soutache" is in gold (the gold has faded/patinated to a silver hue). A regimental number "77" in front is of gold cannetille. There is a non-functional gold chinstrap held by 2 small gilt Infantry (flaming grenade) officer buttons. The 2 1/2-inch leather peak/bill is tightly in place. The patent leather sweat band is intact, but the silk lining has deteriorated. There are a few small insect nips here and there.  In 1914, in combat, these kepis were to be covered in blueish iron gray cloth with a small window revealing the regimental number, but this was often ignored.

The Second Army to which the 77th Infantry of the Line (17th Infantry Division, 36th Infantry Brigade, IX Corps) was attached was commanded by Genral Castelnau. In August 1914 its major role in the campaign plan was to liberate Lorraine and attack into Germany. It was concentrated between Pont-Saint-Vincent and Neufchâteau, with the mission of attacking towards Morhange. Its strength on mobilization was 9,391 officers, 314,804 NCOs and men, and 110,062 horses organized into five corps of ten infantry divisions, three reserve infantry divisions, and two cavalry divisions. After1914 the regiment fought bravely until the Armistice of 1918. A great example of a form that is much sought after but becoming very scarce! [pe][ph:L]

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