WH Soldbuch, EKM & Document Grouping (Inf.-Rgt. 473, Lds.-Schtz.-Btl. 319) (Captured by US)

A compact yet historically rich Wehrmacht document grouping to Obergefreiter Paul Heuser, consisting of his original Soldbuch, Erkennungsmarke, award documents, and several late- and post-war papers, including POW material. All components are period originals and form a coherent, matching set.

Contents of the Grouping

• Original Soldbuch, issued to Obergefreiter Paul Heuser

• Matching Erkennungsmarke, correctly numbered and fully corresponding to the Soldbuch

• Award document for the Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse

• Award document for the Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz

• Additional service and administrative documents, including POW-related paperwork from 1945–1946

Military Service
Paul Heuser served primarily with Infanterie-Regiment 473, including duty with the Stab of the 253. Infanterie-Division, and later ended his service with Landesschützen-Bataillon 319. His Soldbuch documents a frontline infantry career typical of the Eastern Front formations of the Heer.

Awards Confirmed in the Soldbuch

• Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse (EK2)

• Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz

• Winterschlacht im Osten 1941/42 (Ostmedaille)

The EK2 and Wound Badge award documents accompany the group and match the entries in the Soldbuch. Notably, the Soldbuch is denazified, as commonly encountered in late-war or post-war retained documents, while the EK2 award document remains non-denazified, providing an interesting contrast within the set.

Condition
The Soldbuch shows honest period wear consistent with field use, including handling, edge wear, and age toning, but remains complete and legible throughout. The Erkennungsmarke displays normal wear with clear stamping. Paper documents show expected aging but no major damage.

Historical Significance
This grouping offers an excellent snapshot of a German infantryman’s wartime service: Eastern Front combat, wounding, decorations, late-war transfers, and eventual capture by U.S. forces in 1945. The inclusion of POW documentation adds further depth and desirability, illustrating the soldier’s transition from Wehrmacht service to Allied captivity.

Collector’s Note
A desirable, well-matched small grouping that combines combat awards, identity disc, and post-war documentation. Ideal for collectors seeking an authentic, researchable Heer infantry set with clear unit history and complete provenance.