Help identifying

[rfarley]

I bought this Kepi hat a few years ago. It was advertised as a "tarred" hat and I honestly figured I was getting a theatre prop. But I noticed the stitching was very primitive so I started removing it and photographing as I did. Underneath was a whole other kepi.
I'm sure there is an interesting story here.
Can anyone help me identify the hat underneath from the insignias and maybe even the one covering it?

 

[rfarley]

I was thinking possibly New York volunteers on the inside one??

 

[Salterr]

I was thinking possibly New York volunteers on the inside one??

The insignia does not look good to me but it could just be the photos. Normally a canvas cover was used as a cover to keep the hat dry but it would make little sense to have an artillery insignia and then cavalry one. The chin strap is far too thick and you will have to check the button back mark. I can't make out the face of it. The inside liner will also tell you how old the hat may be. It looks like a reproduction to me but more detailed photos would help. Your insignia should also have attachments on the back. What shape are they?

 

[Salterr]

The 292 is not wartime just looking at construction and the cavalry also appears to be the 1872 version with thinner scabbards but again could just be the photo.

 

[R. Porter]

I thought the idea that it might be a movie or theater prop wea a good one.

 

[rfarley]

Some more pics

 

[rfarley]

I thought the idea that it might be a movie or theater prop wea a good one.

It just seems odd they would cover a perfectly good one to make a poor quality looking one?

 

[Salterr]

It just seems odd they would cover a perfectly good one to make a poor quality looking one?

The inner construction is different than authentic pieces and the insignia is reproduction or at best bannermans. It shouldn't have stick pins.