A Rare Victorian Police Helmet c.1877

This is a rare and very well preserved example.
Seldomly seen and ever rarer in a good state of shape and condition. Retaining a very good original shape. Black oil cloth with a brown cotton lining and cotton drawstring inner liner with an oilcloth sweatband. Some printed issued numbers to the underside of the rare flare. The only area of concern is it having lost part of the edge binding on the rare left hand side. The top fitted with a nickel plated top boss and side buttons. Note this helmet has no front numeral badge and evidence suggests it never did pre dating the introduction of number hat badges.

This pattern of helmet was in use in Victoria from c.1877-1947 when the new white solar helmet was introduced.

This is probably the earliest known example of these rare helmets. This is the first one that I have encounter with the maker “ChaMorris Ballarat”. I’ve only ever had 5 or 6 same examples and all others have been made by Sudweeks of Ballarat”. Other exmaples I have encountered have also been made by Sudweeks.

Chas (Charles) Morris was a noted hatter in Ballarat in the 1870’s and ran a shop in Bridge street. He is also know to have made hats for the Pre- Federation Colonial Military Forces at the same time.

Overall a wonderful example in extremely good condition and perfect for any Pre-Federation or Police display.

Code: 3779