Minifigure – Italian Infantryman (77th Regiment “Toscana”) WWI (LEGO Compatible)

The Figure: WWI Italian Infantryman (77th Regiment “Toscana”)

This historical toy minifigure represents a soldier (Fante) of the Royal Italian Army (Regio Esercito) during World War I. Specifically, the markings identify him as a member of the 77th Infantry Regiment, which was part of the famous “Toscana” Brigade.

• Headgear: He wears the iconic Adrian Helmet (Elmetto Adrian).

  • Insignia: The helmet features a detailed black print on the front showing the Royal Crown above the number “77”. This specific stencil identifies his unit as the 77th Regiment. The Adrian helmet was originally a French design adopted by Italy in 1915 to protect troops from shrapnel in the rocky terrain of the Alps.

• Uniform: He is dressed in the standard Grey-Green (Grigio-Verde) field tunic, the unique color used by Italian forces to blend into the misty mountain landscapes.

  • Collar Patches (Mostrine): A critical historical detail is the Red Collar Patch featuring a white five-pointed star (Stella d’Italia). The red color signifies the “Toscana” Brigade (comprising the 77th and 78th regiments), while the white star was the universal symbol of the Italian armed forces, representing the unifying spirit of the nation.

• Equipment: The torso print details his leather Ammunition Pouches (Giberne), worn on the waist belt. These were designed to hold stripper clips for the standard-issue Carcano M91 rifle.

• Legs: He wears matching grey-green trousers with Puttees (leg wraps) and brown boots, the standard footwear for trench warfare in the Dolomites and Isonzo front.

• Face: The figure features a printed face with a Mustache, typical of the grooming styles of European soldiers in the early 20th century.

Historical Background: The 77th Infantry Regiment “Toscana” fought in some of the most grueling battles of the Great War, particularly along the Isonzo River and on the Karst Plateau. Italian soldiers faced unique challenges, often fighting at high altitudes in freezing conditions against the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The “Toscana” Brigade was known for its tenacity. Later in history (during WWII), this unit would earn the nickname “Wolves of Tuscany,” but this figure represents their earlier heroism in the trenches of 1915–1918.