The 1816 pattern shako replaced the 1812 shako, inspired by the continental armies. Officers of the Light Company of the 25th King’s Own Borderers had this distinctive arrangement of separate badges. The stringed bugle horn has 25 in the centre and the Hanoverian crown above. These are placed on a rosette of lace which is probably faded gold, as the officers’ uniforms were gold laced. Two battle honours are in gilt metal above this, the Sphinx is placed on a black coiled boss which was positioned at the top of the shako, just below a green plume.
The photo is borrowed with thanks to Hiram Dunn, KOSB Regimental Historian, artist, author and collector.