French M1874 Matching Cuirasse and Helmet

An outstanding, investment-grade French Third Republic M1874 Heavy Cavalry Cuirassier set (Panoplie de Cuirassier). This museum-quality ensemble consists of a factory-matching steel combat cuirass (Cuirasse de combat) and its correct, manufacturer-marked Cuirassier helmet (Casque de Cuirassier).

A truly impressive display set that has been beautifully preserved.The M1874 Combat Cuirass (La Cuirasse):Matching Numbers: An absolute rarity—both the breastplate (Plastron) and the backplate (Dossier) are 100% factory-matching, stamped with serial number "112" accompanied by the traditional three horizontal alignment zeros above the number on both components.Manufacturer Markings: Both components feature a crisp weapon smith inspector's mark: the "letter R inside a circle" (poinçon de contrôle) stamped at the upper rims.

This official French military acceptance mark indicates the armor successfully passed the rigorous arsenal inspections and projectile proof tests. The main manufacturer script (signature de la manufacture) on the bottom inner rim of the breastplate is present under an old protective layer of internal lacquer but has been left completely untouched and uncleaned to preserve its integrity.Hardware & Straps: Features 7 copper/brass rivets (rivets) on the front plate and 14 rivets on the back plate. Both heavy shoulder locking straps (bretelles) with their original brass chains (gourmettes) and attachment rings are in excellent condition. Note: The very bottom decorative tip under one of the strap locks has cleanly broken off; however, the piece is included and can be easily repaired/brazed, or left as-is.Wartime Waist Belt: The lower leather waist belt (ceinture de cuirasse) remains originally mounted, is exceptionally supple, and retains its original steel closure buckle.

The M1874 Cuirassier Helmet (Le Casque):The Shell: Crafted from polished steel (bombe) with zero dents, heavy scuffs, or structural damage. The ornate brass comb (cimier) fits perfectly flush against the skull.The Mane & Pompom: Retains its original front hair-pompom (marmouset) and a stunning, full-length black horsehair tail (crinière) measuring well over 75 cm. The original brass plume socket/fitting (porte-plumet) on the left side remains tightly mounted.Leatherwork & Visor: The brass chinscales (jugulaires) are 100% original, complete, and the interior leather backing, closure straps, and buckle remain entirely intact and supple. The peak (visière) and neck guard (couvre-nuque) display an honest, crisp alignment.Manufacturer Stamp: Clearly and deeply stamped under the neck guard with the premier French contract maker mark: Alexis Godillot.An untouched, visually magnificent heavy cavalry set that serves as a stunning centerpiece for any advanced militaria or armor display.