The Bedfordshire Regiment 1st Volunteer Battalion Officer’s Blue Cloth Helmet, a very fine example, the blue cloth body complete with all plated fittings frontal QVC pattern helmet plate with laurel and Garter overlays, in the centre on a ground of black patent leather a silver multi rayed cross with central hart trippant this with a blue enamel backing, the title scroll reads simply ‘The Bedfordshire Regt’. Original leather sweat band and silk lining, retailed by Hawkes & Co., London and detailed label stating ‘No. 516 date ‘blank’ Name Smith Reg. 1VB Beds Size 6 7/8ths Full’. Together with its named Hawkes & Co., carrying tin this with brass name plaque ‘J H Smith Esq., 1st VB Bedford Regt’, slight damage to the blue enamel centre otherwise very fine overall condition (2) £600-800