Helmet Of The Paris Republican Guard (mounted), 1860–1872, Napoleon III, Cavalry Of The Third Republic

An imposing and superb Model 1860/1872 troop helmet from the Paris Mounted Guard.
It should be noted that, in addition to this helmet’s exceptional condition, all of its components are entirely original—a rarity these days. Including the crest and the plume.
This helmet, a transitional model, is rare because it was worn by the Republican Guard for only a few years after the end of the Second Empire... until the adoption in 1876 of an entirely new helmet with smaller, more modern dimensions.
This is therefore a Second Empire-era helmet, Model 1860, whose headband was officially changed in 1872: the imperial eagle was then replaced by the coat of arms of the city of Paris featuring a boat and the motto “Fluctuat Nec Mergitur” (it is tossed by the waves but does not sink). The “Garde de Paris” banner remains on the lower part of the headband, as it did during the Second Empire.
Steel helmet with multiple serial numbers on the back.
Tall brass crest adorned with godrons, laurel leaves, and serpents.
The assembly is topped by a stylized brass crest and a red horsehair plume.
The helmet is complete with its leather-mounted chin straps featuring rosettes in the shape of a radiating sun. It also features a beautiful period mane that is still very full of black horsehair and approximately 70 cm long (for the visible portion).
Original leather inner liner, 1860 model. The inner surfaces of the visor and neck guard are lined with sheepskin.
This superb collector’s piece is in very good overall condition and uniform throughout, with no oxidation.
Minor signs of wear on the helmet liner.
Total height of the helmet (without the crest): 34 cm.