Why do the roman helmets have the feather on top of it? Why did it was used for?

Question

The red feather is something like this: http://www.knightsedge.com/images/imperial-roman-helmet-8112.jpg

Answer 1

It depends on the type. Every single helmet could be affixed with a plume of some sort, but this was usually reserved for parade or ceremony. In general, you will find the following types of plumes on normal, conventional Roman helmets (not counting special customized helmets used by Roman generals which often were made of gold, or had special fixtures to them):

1. Horizontal Plume - This goes left to right. It denotes the rank of Centurion.
2. Straight Plume - It goes straight across the top, following the length of the helmet. This denotes the rank of Prefect.
3. Feathers - Feathers in a form of ball will denote Optiomates (singular is Optio). An optio was essentially a non-commissioned officer, their most common job was to keep soldiers in line and to keep the lines straight.

Hopefully that helps.

Answer 2

Types Of Roman Helmets

Answer 3

rule of thumb if the hackle runs front to back and the helmet is quite elaberate that denotes a Calvary officer NOT A CENTURION if the hackle or plume runs across the helmet that denotes a centurion who also in the early roman army carried a staff of rank and could be more easerly spotted on the field of battle

Answer 4

For the second century BC we have accounts of a slightly reorganized legion.
The hastati were still up front, carrying bronze breastplates, or the more wealthy ones among them wore chain mail coats. They now also wore purple and black feather plumes on their helmets, 18 inches in height, to increase their apparent height and appear more intimidating to the enemy.

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Answer 5

I believe the shape and size of the plume denoted rank.

I believe the Legionaires had no plumes, while Officers and NCO's did have plumes.

Colors may also have been used as unit identifiers

Answer 6

They had a very bad taste. A red feather is preposterous.

Answer 7

Looks nice

Answer 8

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Answer 9

It was used to symbolize rank, much the same way stars or chevrons are used today.