Bicorne Hat Value Guide

The Bicorne Hat is a quintessential symbol of the Napoleonic era, evolving from the 18th-century tricorn to become the standard headgear for European and American officers. Its association with Napoleon Bonaparte and its distinct dual-pointed silhouette make it a highly sought-after piece of military history.

What affects the value of Bicorne Hat?

• Condition of the felt and silk, as these organic materials are prone to moth damage and shattering over time.
• Presence of original military insignia, plumes, or metallic lace which significantly increases the $500-$600 baseline value.
• Historical provenance or evidence of belonging to a specific high-ranking naval or military officer.
• Structural integrity of the leather inner band and the preservation of the hat's original folded shape.

How to Identify Bicorne Hat?

• Examine the construction for period-correct materials including felted beaver or wool, leather sweatbands, and silk linings.
• Verify the orientation of the points, as naval officers typically wore them 'fore-and-aft' while others wore them 'athwart'.
• Look for authentic metal cockades or gold bullion embroidery which indicate the officer's rank and national origin.
• Check for French manufacturing marks or labels consistent with the 1790-1820 production period.

History of Bicorne Hat

The bicorne hat emerged in the late 18th century as a replacement for the tricorn. It was widely adopted by military and naval officers across Europe and America, most famously by Napoleon Bonaparte. Depending on the era and service, it could be worn with the points forward (fore-and-aft) or athwart (side-to-side).