Canada, Pre-Confederation. A Rare No. 1 Company, Les Chasseurs Canadiens Of Montreal Militia Helmet Plate, C.1862

Three-piece construction, in die-stamped patinated white metal, independent soldier and scroll inscribed "AU BUT" insignias, affixed to a maple leaf base, unmarked, measuring 76.2 mm (w) x 88.3 mm (h), both lugs intact, scattered patination wear, surface rust evident on the shoulder and scroll insignias, better than very fine.

Footnote: During the War of 1812, after the 5th Battalion of Select Embodied Militia attracted unfavourable reports in 1814 (mainly because of the absence without leave of several of its officers), it was re-organized and reformed as a light infantry unit, the Canadian Chasseurs.  Several of the flank companies of other Select Embodied Militia battalions which had already seen much service with the Light Battalions were consolidated into the Chasseurs, while the existing personnel of the 5th Battalion were dispersed among the other battalions. The Chasseurs wore substantially the same uniform as the Voltigeurs and were brigaded with them in the campaign in 1814 which ended with the Battle of Plattsburgh. The No. 1 Company, Les Chasseurs Canadiens was raised on January 17, 1862 and headquartered at Montreal. The unit is perpetuated within the Canadian Army by Les Fusiliers du St-Laurent.