Early 20th Century Wire/Leather Fencing Mask-Vintage WWI US Army Calvary Patton

Description

Early 20th Century Wire/Leather Fencing Mask-Vintage WWI US Army Calvary Patton Saber Fencing Mask Helmet Model 1916 Antique
Been told this is a US Military “Broadsword” training mask as used early 1900s (1900-1917). Similar masks were used in bayonet training from about 1840/ onwards. The training bayonets were sometimes spring loaded to compress on impact, like prop daggers , and the points were padded with blunts about size golf balls (hence relatively wide grill over the eyes/nose area). In overall great-excellent shape and condition (as seen in the photos)- some of the leather padding is scraping off (see photo) and the Top crown of head came loose and appears that one paces was broken as one is larger than other., wire mask is in great shape and overall rest is good condition for being this aged.
Some additional history
The primary weapon for an American infantry soldier since revolutionary war has always been firearms, swords were once an important secondary defense when hand to hand combat became necessary. Before proliferation of automatic and semiautomatic weapons, firing rates weee much slower and soldiers could find themselves in close encounters with the opposition. While enlisted infantry typically had bayonets to use in these situations, officers usually relied upon swords to defend themselves. As such, soldiers had to be instructed in the skillful use of these weapons. The civil war was last major conflict in which infantry officers regularly engaged in hand to hand combat, but the army continued to train them to fight with swords well into 20th century. Masks, as this artifact (item), were used during the fencing training where an officer would learn these techniques. I was told this is a model 1916 which puts it into the later years of sword combat training.
Mask covers the head from the crown forward including the ears on the side. It features covering made of fine mesh steel wire, the spacing of which is much greater in front as to not obstruct vision. There are soft leather lined padding along the top and cheeks, and quilted upper chest and throat protector which extends six inches below the chin. Leather straps with metal buckles are used to fasten the device to the head along with spring loaded pad secures it to the back.
Material is metal, leather, and canvas.
Please take a look at the photos for condition and examination. Any questions please ask and I’ll do my best to answer them.
Mask overall in good condition completely in tact and original parts. Leather straps and buckles still original. Interior padding and such the leather shows minor wear and some flaking.
Mask measures approximately 19” from top to bottom of chest pad. Approximately 10” wide and 9” deep.
Antique fencing mask for display purposes only.
Thanks for looking and good luck bidding to add this unique vintage antique to your collection.
Approximate value is in the range of 0-700 so starting bid is very fair to start off the bidding. Good luck and enjoy bidding !!