Hi again DR
Thanks for the post. Yes, I guess it may be a bit surprising to discover a R.Scots KC helmet Plate considering the circumstances you mention, and they are undoubtedly rare items. But, at the risk of seeming pedantic, the change to the Kilmarnock bonnet was in fact made in August 1903.(see attachment)
I am not quite sure when the KC plates were authorized but I guess late 1901 or early 1902, which would have given it a life of at least a year ... so, yes rare.
However, the attached photo of Officers c.1904 shows the central figure (the CO ?) still wearing the helmet, so perhaps it continued in use for some functions a little longer. ??
Anyway, I hope the attached pics are of some interest and use to you. Regards. Jeff
R.Scots Kilmarnock bonnet 1903.jpg R.Scots c.1904 Edinburgh.jpg
R.Scots 1913 L&McC.jpg