From the War of 1812 period, this is one of rarest artifacts that we have ever offered for sale. Only a hand-full of these Regulation First Issue Dragoon Helmets are known to exist with one of the better examples selling for nearly $20,000.00 at an auction a few years ago. This is the very first model of headgear that was issued to American Cavalry or Dragoon Soldiers. The Dragoon insignia on the front is of pewter and this is designated in the first regulation order for these helmets. Over 200 years old, this example is in very fine condition for its age with most of its shiny polished leather intact and most of the pewter or tin trim pieces intact. The white horse hair plume is also nearly complete, and original. The lining and sweat-band are also original and complete, and the inspectors initials are clearly marked on the underside of its visor. For all you collectors that complain that nothing great ever shows up anymore, I disagree. This helmet proves the point. This helmet has been on the website for quite a while with no price or description because I couldn't decide if I should keep it. That decision was made easy when I recently purchased an important identified Colt with Gettysburg history. For American Mounted Military Collectors, this is a must.