Original Items: Only Ones Available. An attractive example of the scarce Model 1911 “Montana Peak” High Crowned Campaign Hat complete with chinstrap, Infantry Hat Cord, and period Dust Goggles. This is an excellent example of what a U.S. Army Soldier would have worn while “on the border” during the Punitive Expedition, or while chasing Pancho Villa in Mexico!
The hat is in excellent condition considering it is well over 100 years old! The fine fur felt is in very good condition, with no extensive mothing or damage. The original crown band ribbon is intact, along with the chinstrap, which is broken at the front over the brown of the cap, but does not detract from the outward appearance of the hat, as the damage is concealed behind the Infantry Hat Cord.
The original leather sweatband is intact and pliable, with original stitching securing the sweatband to the body of the hat. There is an original size label (6 ⅞) on the back portion of the sweatband, and upon turning the sweatband inside out, there is a partial inspectors stamp on the reverse. In addition, a paper size label is found inside the body of the hat underneath the sweatband as well.
The Hat cord is sun faded and stained from dust, which is exactly how these would have looked after being worn on the border for even a short length of time. Traces of the original blue can be seen under the adjustment “knot” at the front of the hat.
Topping off the hat is an original period pair of dust goggles. The goggles are made with a leather body with glass lenses secured by vented tin cylinders. The goggles even have their original fabric securing strap. As the U.S. Military did not have an issue pair of goggles at this period of time, many soldiers purchased their own pairs of goggles to be worn during the campaign. Needless to say, they were a necessity for the soldier’s serving in the desert!
This is a fantastic opportunity to pick up a virtually untouched example of a Punitive Expedition Era M-1911 Campaign Cap with all the bells and whistles! A must have for the collector of WWI era militaria!
