King Gustav Vasa's Helmet with a Gilt Crown

The helmet was fashioned in southern Germany circa 1540, and is unusual because it is one of the few surviving helmets adorned with a crown. It was purchased in Augsburg on the King's behalf by his agent, the merchant Claus Heijder. The helmet was likely used in Gustav Vasa's funeral procession in 1560, because a helmet adorned with a gilded crown is mentioned by a contemporary who witnessed the ceremony. The gilded crown is medieval in style – a suitable symbol of Gustav Vasa, who had one foot in the old union and one in the newly minted hereditary monarchy.