Notes
This is likely an Imperial German Pickelhaube, a design that was first introduced in 1842. These helmets were made of boiled leather with brass or steel trim, and their impressive appearance made them a symbol of German military might throughout the First World War. However, they quickly proved ineffective on the battlefield, as their leather construction was incapable of protecting soldiers against shrapnel and the distinctive spikes made conspicuous targets for enemy snipers. As a result, these helmets were replaced by the more practical and effective Stahlhelm models in 1916, though they were still worn behind the lines for ceremonial and police duties.