Trying to identify this 1881 helmet label meaning
Recently while browsing Ebay I've come across a US model 1881 helmet that's both in pretty good condition and decently priced. I have done some research on my own and everything seems to be correct including the manufacturer mark who did make such helmets. My main issue is the metal lettering and numbering on the front eagle plate shown in the pictures. WLI and 1803 being put onto the front of course. These kind of labels were put for units or regiments from what I've seen like with a medical corps helmet having a plus sign that I've seen or an artillery corps helmet having the regiment number and such. But for this helmet I have no idea what WLI or 1803 mean and I don't believe 1803 is a date as..The helmet was made long long after 1803. So if anyone here has any further information to help out that would be much appreciated as I do not want to purchase an item that could possibly be fake.
Thank you for any help you can provide
Recently while browsing Ebay I've come across a US model 1881 helmet that's both in pretty good condition and decently priced. I have done some research on my own and everything seems to be correct including the manufacturer mark who did make such helmets. My main issue is the metal lettering and numbering on the front eagle plate shown in the pictures. WLI and 1803 being put onto the front of course. These kind of labels were put for units or regiments from what I've seen like with a medical corps helmet having a plus sign that I've seen or an artillery corps helmet having the regiment number and such. But for this helmet I have no idea what WLI or 1803 mean and I don't believe 1803 is a date as..The helmet was made long long after 1803. So if anyone here has any further information to help out that would be much appreciated as I do not want to purchase an item that could possibly be fake.
Thank you for any help you can provide
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