German Police Shako Value Guide

This German Police Shako is a significant piece of law enforcement history, representing the transitional policing eras of the Weimar Republic and early post-WWII. Its distinctive star medallion featuring a horse identifies it with regional forces from Hanover or Schleswig-Holstein, making it a prized find for heraldry and militaria enthusiasts.

What Is German Police Shako Worth?

The typical price range for German Police Shako is $300 - $400 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Overall condition of the lacquer and felt, as these materials are prone to cracking and moth damage over time.
• Completeness of the piece, including the presence of the original chinstrap and the internal liner.
• The rarity of the specific regional insignia, with certain police districts being more sought after by collectors than others.
• Historical provenance or documentation linking the shako to a specific timeframe between 1920 and 1950.

How to Identify German Police Shako?

• Examine the star medallion for the Saxon Steed emblem, a hallmark of regional police forces in Hanover or Schleswig-Holstein.
• Verify the construction materials, which should consist of a felt body, leather trim, and a lacquered top and visor.
• Check for the presence of original metal vents on the sides and the specific mounting hardware for the front plate.
• Look for internal maker marks or size stamps often found on the leather sweatband or the underside of the crown.

History of German Police Shako

Shakos are tall, cylindrical military caps with a visor, originating in the early 19th century and widely adopted by European militaries. German police forces used them extensively, particularly between the World Wars and into the early post-WWII period, before transitioning to more modern headwear. The specific emblem on this shako, featuring a horse, is indicative of a regional German police force, most commonly associated with Hanover or Schleswig-Holstein, both of which feature the Saxon Steed in their heraldry. These helmets represent a transitional period in German policing history.