Cap Details

1810 to the 1830's period, US, Militia Beaver Top Hat with Planchet

This ultra rare top hat is of the 1810 ("War of 1812") period and worn up to about the 1830's. The hat is a US commercial version modified for Army militia use. This was a popular practice in those days. Often, the higher the hat the higher the rank, therefore these hats are often attributed to Officers. The militia unit of this hat is unknown, as the greater majority are. This hat has a magnificant pewter eagle planchet depicting an eagle with a red/white/blue shield on it's breast. The eagle is clutching an olive branch in it's right talon and arrows in his left. The eagle rests upon a shield maked with raised painted black letters "US" that also includes a red painted stylized flower. Two orange cotton cords encircle the top and base of this extraordinary hat. The exterior is in very good condition, or excellent plus condition if compared to it's almost 200 year old age! Interior sweat band is detached but present and intact (they are almost always missing so this hat is special to still have it's band present). Lining is present. Lavender silk hat label with "G.L. Kinsman Montpelier State Street", with gold eagle on a crest with "Excelsior" monogram complete with jacquard garland of leaves design in silk. This hat once belonged to one of the most famous early period hat collectors in America. Hat is a stunning example of an 1810 period militia piece and in spectacular condition. Impossible to improve upon. For the advanced and knowledgable collector or museum.

Buy it Now - $8000.00

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