An English Civil War - Cromwellian Period 17th Century Lobster Tail Helmet in good condition with moderate wear and some oxidation. The inside of the helmet has heavy surface rust. These helmets were typically worn by cavalry, including Parliamentarian and Royalist horsemen, and were designed to offer practical protection while still allowing visibility and mobility. Common features often included a rounded skull, sliding nasal bar, cheek pieces, and the articulated tail-like neck defense that gave the helmet its popular name. During the Cromwellian era, arms and armor of this type reflected the transition from earlier full armor to more practical battlefield protection suited to firearms, swords, and cavalry combat. Today, 17th century lobster tail helmets are highly collectible as iconic pieces of English Civil War military history.