Imperial German Infantry Officer’s Visor Cap – Saxon Regiment

This Imperial German Infantry Officer’s Visor Cap is from a Saxon regiment, as suggested by its distinctive green and red color scheme, which was often associated with units from Saxony. The cap features a green wool top with a red band and red piping, topped off with a black leather visor. The cap is adorned with two cockades: the national cockade with the red and black imperial colors, and the Saxon blue cockade, indicating its affiliation with the Kingdom of Saxony within the German Empire. The interior of the cap includes a leather sweatband marked "D.R.G.M." with the number 430123, indicating it was produced under an official registered design (Deutsches Reich Gebrauchsmuster).

• Condition: This cap is in good condition, showing minor wear on the leather visor and some light scuffing on the fabric. The green and red wool remains vibrant, and the cockades are intact, showing the distinctive color patterns of the Imperial German Army. The interior lining shows some age-related wear, but the sweatband remains readable with the D.R.G.M. marking.
• Unique Features: The use of green and red wool suggests this cap was worn by an officer in a Saxon regiment. The combination of the two cockades—national and state—further supports its Saxon origins. The interior D.R.G.M. marking is a typical stamp used for military goods during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Significance: Officer caps like this one were an important part of the Imperial German Army’s uniform during the early 20th century, particularly in the period leading up to and during World War I. This specific cap would have been worn by an officer in one of the Saxon infantry regiments, likely during formal or ceremonial duties.

Historical Analysis:

Saxon regiments were an integral part of the Imperial German Army, often distinguished by their green and red uniform elements. Officers in these units played critical roles during Germany's imperial era, especially during World War I. This cap would have been worn by an officer responsible for leading troops in battle or during high-profile ceremonies.

For more information on the role of Saxon regiments in the Imperial German Army, visit this historical resource.

Military Games and Movies:

• Games:

  • Verdun – A multiplayer first-person shooter that focuses on trench warfare during World War I, featuring various German units, including Saxon regiments. Learn more about Verdun.
  • Strategic Command: World War I – A grand strategy game that allows players to command the German Army, including Saxon regiments. Explore Strategic Command: World War I.

• Movies:

  • All Quiet on the Western Front (1930) – A powerful depiction of the German Army during World War I, highlighting the experiences of officers and soldiers alike. Watch All Quiet on the Western Front on IMDb.
  • The Young Lions (1958) – A film that explores the lives of German officers and soldiers during World War II but offers insight into German military culture from earlier wars. View The Young Lions on IMDb.

Ancestry Resources:

Those interested in tracing family history related to Saxon regiments in the Imperial German Army can explore Ancestry.com or Archion.de for access to German military records and genealogical information.

Date Range:

This cap likely dates from the early 1900s, between 1900 and 1914, as it reflects the style of officer caps worn by the Imperial German Army before and during World War I.

Display Suggestions:

Given its association with the prestigious Saxon infantry regiments, this cap would make an excellent display piece in a World War I or Imperial German Army collection. Its vibrant green and red colors, along with the unique Saxon cockade, would stand out in any militaria display. Pairing it with other Saxon or German Empire military artifacts, such as medals, swords, or uniforms, would enhance its historical context.

This Imperial German Infantry Officer’s Visor Cap is an exceptional example of a Saxon regiment cap, representing the elite officers of the Imperial German Army. Its historical significance, condition, and unique features make it a prized collectible for enthusiasts of German militaria.