The helmet plate is made of silver and is an 8 pointed star with a laurel wreath and Garter surmounted by an Imperial Crown that displaces the top point of the star. The Garter Proper has the motto ‘Honi soit qui mal y pense’. In the middle of the garter is the Union Rose, in silver with a gilt centre, on a black velvet background.
Fixed to the wreath is a silver universal scroll with the words ‘The York and Lancaster Regiment’ and below it a second scroll with the words ‘2nd Volunteer Battalion’. The fittings on the helmet are in white metal indicative of volunteer battalions.
This helmet and plate was replaced in 1908 on the formation of the Territorial Force when the 2nd Volunteer Battalion became the 5th Battalion York and Lancaster Regiment. From this time onwards, officers wore the same Home Service Helmet and fittings as those of regular battalions.