In 1859 England expected to be invaded by France and a scare swept the country, exposing the inability of the small peacetime Regular Army to defend Great Britain as well as the vast colonial Empire. The widespread popular demand for additional volunteer forces led to formation of Corps of Rifle Volunteers. Lancashire responded with particular enthusiasm to the call for volunteers and by the end of 1860 over seventy local Infantry units had been raised. This is an excellent, Victorian Other Ranks spike topped Home Service Pattern blue cloth helmet to the Lancashire Rifle Volunteers. It has a white metal cross piece, spike top and rose bosses supporting a leather backed link chin chain. The front of the helmet bears the impressive Victorian Regiment white metal helmet plate with central brass Rose, Wreath, Garter Star, Queen Victoria Crown and Corps name. The helmet plate is original with correct lug mounts. The helmet is complete with leather sweatband, stitched panel lining and draw string. The sweatband has a small size ink marking '7 7/8'. Price includes UK delivery. Sn 11319/11267
£675.00