Help Please - What is it?

[Gatman]

I'm new to your world, but not to militaria. Please help me identify this military hat. I'd like to put it with the right uniform. THANK YOU! http://www.gatling-gun.com/Hat.htm

 

[deanglen]

I'm new to your world, but not to militaria. Please help me identify this military hat. I'd like to put it with the right uniform. THANK YOU! http://www.gatling-gun.com/Hat.htm

Welcome to the Lounge, Gatman!

Regarding your hat, my first guess is that it is an original M1898 or M1904 US Campaign hat. The ribbon is unusual, I would have expected 5/8" grosgrain. It is one feature of that hat that makes me suspect it was re-ribboned, since a lot of the original grosgrain ribbons didn't fare too well over time.

The crown is neatly blocked in a 'cattleman's' crease, I would have expected a tightly pinched crown with side dents. The Star vent is very nice. The wear and tear on the hat adds to its vintage aura, even the front crown evidences the holes of a pinback insignia supporting its status as an original. The hat cord looks a bit late for the hat, 1920s at least. That hat compares favorably to this original:

If it is an M1904, I would recommend this uniform, though it is rare:

In lieu of one of those, and presuming an M1898 hat, one of these would be perfect:

Hope this helps! More info if you want or need it, anytime!



dean