The British infantry adopted the helmet for home service in 1878 and this example dates around the early 1890s and conforms to the Dress Regulations. It has a cork base, covered with blue cloth. The front peak is pointed and bound with a gilt metal edge, while the back is edged with black patent leather. The chin chain is formed with gilt links and backed with black velvet. It could be worn under the chin, hooked to the rose-shaped boss, or attached to a small hook at the upper rear as seen in the photo. The gilt spike on top is 3.25 inches high, and the star pattern badge on the front has a Victorian crown. This helmet was auctioned at Bosleys and the information in the catalogue says that the helmet belonged to Colonel H C Curtis who was in the 4th Militia Battalion, based at Kingston-on-Thames, up until 1895.
