Interesting military helmet

[ipsilateral]

My grandfather was always full of surprises. He was one of those guys who was always stashing little things in every nook and cranny. Anyhow, before he died, he gave me this helmet. I had always assumed it was a replica from a tourist shop in Europe. But, this morning I thought I would post it here and see what the forum thought. As I was photographing the bottom of it, I saw a small rolled up piece of newspaper inside and removed it with forceps. It was an article he had hidden inside (I had hoped it held something more valuable!!) but it does have a hint as to the origin of the helmet-- apparently a currasier helmet (probably French). Anyone have any idea as to the date of this helmet? How best do I preserve it? What about the age? Is it WWI or earlier? Is this in good condition? Value? Thank you all for the insights I know you will have with this fun object. It appears to be made of leather, brass, steel, feather plume with some sort of resin, and of course, the giant horsehair tail. After look at some examples online, I found that these should have a stamp in the leather which this does...It reads:

Alphonse Helbronner 2ie
(I believe is 19xx) could be 18xx
7 place Levi
Paris

 

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Appears to be quite similar to this c. 1872-74 French Third Republic Dragoon helmet.



Also see this listing:

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=141090220#PIC

 

[ipsilateral]

I've done a bit of homework and it definitely appears to be a WWI Calvary Officer's helmet. These were worn for only a few weeks in the beginning of the war as they really weren't practical. Clearly, it's French. Worth from about $700 - $1500. Feather plume probably not original. Still no idea if I should polish up the brass or let it rust. Thanks for the input, guys.