Here is a neat helmet. I purchased this from an estate picker years ago on . You can see that it has quite bit of patina. The bullion is dark. The plume which could white is now gray. It is obvious that eveything has been on the helmet a very long time. The shell is pressed felt and I believe is a quartermaster issue helmet. Due to the condition of the sweatband I can\'t turn it up to see any contract markings, however the shell is an exact match to my other contract issue helmets. Sweatband has a name hand written on it however I can\'t quite make it out.The eagle plate is not branch specific however it has been on the hemelt so long that an outline of dust in evident around it. It is also not an officers grade plate. The bullion cords are sewn tight against the shell and have been there for at least 100 years. Rest of the fittings show oxidation and have not been removed. Though this piece dates to the Indian Wars, I actually believe that it is a State Militia or National Guard officers helmet. States were often less particular about regs than the regular Army and often had to make due with what could be procured. Officers were no paid well and often voluntary. Helmet is completely original in that is wasassembled contempary to its time period and worn. It makes a gorgeous shelf or display case sitter. I have had in my display case for a few years and it has remained stable. A lot more economical than a full blown regulation Army officers plumed full dress helmet. Great piece. Thanks for looking!