The Wolseley pattern helmet is a distinctive British design developed and popularized in the late 19th and early 20th century. It was the official designation for the universal sun helmet worn by the British Army from 1899 to 1948 and described in the 1900 Dress Regulations as "the Wolseley pattern cork helmet." It is named after Field Marshal The 1st Viscount Wolseley.
This example is in superb condition with no damage and very little wear. The soft leather sweat band, foil interior and chin strap are all in perfect condition. Unusually, this is felt lined, leading us to suspect officer issue. Interior of the leather sweat band is WD marked and there is a paper label bearing the broad arrow and size of 6 3/4. Maker marked "Helmet Ltd." which is Hawkes & Co. We have been unable to identify the puggaree flash but it somewhat resembles the Irish Lancers and "irish lancers" is written on the inside of the sweat band. Included is a portion of a "...majesty's service" envelope that appears to have been mailed in Ismailia in 1926. It was found in the sweat band.
