Helmet crest from Hadrian’s Wall

[Peroni]

There is also a second item from Vindolanda made from hairmoss. In "Garrison life at Vindolanda" by Anthony Birley it is said to be Lepidina's insect repellent hairpiece! (Photo on page 142)

As well as the so-called 'crest' (We cannot be certain that it is actually remains of a crest) The second piece from Vindolanda looks like the base of a basket or hat - even a wig as Birley suggests, but equally plausible is that it could have been a faux 'hair' covering for a cavalry helmet like the finds from Nijmegen and Xanten.

There is a similar find from Newstead (Trimontium) also of hair moss...
http://www.scotlandsimages.com/wemail/CAA00446.jpg
http://www.scotlandsimages.com/wemail/CAA00462.jpg