WWI hat cord identification help?

[Black Jack]

The gold is used for Cavalry: Cotton was primairly used until 1917 when war time production took over. Depending on when it was issued a cotton and wool blend was used which creates a two tone appearance. When occupation armies were sent cotton became the norm, again.

Hat cords were laid around the brim of the campaign hat to signify the occuaption (for lack of better words) for the soldier. Blue=infantry, Red=Artillery, Gold and Black=officer (usually major or higher), Silver or silver and Bullion=Warrant Officer Red and Yellow (wool) Signal Corps.

As for repro hats a 1911 Campaign is appropirate as the hat was not modified until 1938. Several companies offer originals and reproductions, you can check Great War Militaria (price varies on condition), What Price Glory (there is a cheap and expensive version), and US Historical Society (about $90)