Vintage Riding Black Velvet Helmet with Carrying Case

This black velvet riding helmet was purchased from Olsen Nolte, a notable saddle shop in California in 1980. Before the changes in competition regulations requiring helmets to be certified for impact standards and have chinstraps and harnesses, the hat was worn in hunter and equitation classes in horse shows. It is a size 7. This is a quality helmet to be used as a prop, decorating item, or for display. The carrying case has the original strap (unused) and is lined with a rouche pocket. Two zippers meet in the middle. The items are used but cared for and have been stored appropriately. There is no damage to the case except light wear. The helmet has no damage but the inside has some fading and light wear (pictured). On the outside, the velvet is intact and in good condition. These helmets can be cleaned using a barely damp warm terry cloth to remove surface dust and bring up the velvet nap. The hat carrier is vinyl and can be cleaned with a damp cloth and scrubbed lightly as needed. The carrier has brass accents around the short handle and gold accents on the zippers. The zippers work as they should.