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WHO CAN HELP?
I am looking for anything related to the 333. Infanterie-Division (Grenadier-Regiment 679, 680, 681 and units 333). Contact me: wolfganghistorica@gmail.com.
Johann Hörstermann – Grenadier-Regiment 473 (253. Infanterie-Division)
€25,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Johann Hörstermann. Major Johann Hörstermann (30.05.1911 in Gelsenkirchen † 25.03.1992) earned the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on November 13, 1942 with Infanterie-Regiment 473 and the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on March 28, 1945 as Major und Kommandeur of a Kampfgruppe / Grenadier-Regiment 473 of the 253. Infanterie-Division. Larger Size: 11,6×16,7cm.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Werner Grodde – Artillerie-Regiment 13 (L) (13. Feld-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Werner Grodde. Hauptmann Werner Grodde (22.07.1914 in Genditten † 07.10.2003 in Brüggen) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on April 6, 1944 as Hauptmann und Kommandeur of the II. Abteilung/ Artillerie-Regiment 13 (L) of the 13. Feld-Division (L). Size: 11,3x17cm.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Rudolf von Ribbentrop – SS-Panzer-Regiment 1 “LSSAH” & 12 “Hitlerjugend” (Kharkov, Kursk, Normandy & Ardennes!)
€55,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Rudolf von Ribbentrop. SS-Hauptsturmführer Rudolf von Ribbentrop (11.05.1921 in Wiesbaden † 20.05.2019 in Ratingen) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on July 15, 1943 as SS-Obersturmführer und Führer of the 6. Kompanie/ SS-Panzer-Regiment 1 of the 1. SS-Panzer-Division “LSSAH” and the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on August 25, 1944 with the 3. Kompanie/ SS-Panzer-Regiment 12 of the 12. SS-Panzer-Division “Hitlerjugend”. Condition as seen.
He participated in many of the most famous battles of World War II: Kharkov, Kursk, Normandy, Falaise and the Ardennes!
Harald Nugiseks – 20. Waffen-Grenadier-Division der SS (estnische Nr. 1)
€35,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Harald Nugiseks. Waffen-Oberscharführer Harald Nugiseks (22.10.1921 † 02.01.2014) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on April 9, 1944 as Waffen-Unterscharführer und Zugführer in the 1. Kompanie/ SS-Freiwilligen-Grenadier-Regiment 46 of the 20. Waffen-Grenadier-Division der SS (estnische Nr. 1).
Rudolf von Ribbentrop – SS-Panzer-Regiment 1 “LSSAH” & 12 “Hitlerjugend” (Kharkov, Kursk, Normandy & Ardennes!)
€55,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Rudolf von Ribbentrop. SS-Hauptsturmführer Rudolf von Ribbentrop (11.05.1921 in Wiesbaden † 20.05.2019 in Ratingen) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on July 15, 1943 as SS-Obersturmführer und Führer of the 6. Kompanie/ SS-Panzer-Regiment 1 of the 1. SS-Panzer-Division “LSSAH” and the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on August 25, 1944 with the 3. Kompanie/ SS-Panzer-Regiment 12 of the 12. SS-Panzer-Division “Hitlerjugend”. Condition as seen.
He participated in many of the most famous battles of World War II: Kharkov, Kursk, Normandy, Falaise and the Ardennes!
Johann Sailer – SS-Panzerjäger-Abteilung 9 “Hohenstaufen”
€40,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Johann Sailer. SS-Obersturmführer Johann Sailer (23.12.1991 † 12.11.2005) earned (cancelled) the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on May 4, 1945 as SS-Obersturmführer und Führer of the 3. Kompanie/ SS-Panzerjäger-Abteilung 9 of the 9. SS-Panzer-Division “Hohenstaufen”.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-609” (Sunk by a Free French corvette)
€30,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Willibald Engelbrecht, a crew member of the German submarine U-609.
Service & Fate:
Engelbrecht served aboard U-609, a Type VIIC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 6 February 1943, at 2204 hours, U-609 was sunk in the North Atlantic south-east of Cape Farwell, Greenland, at position 54.56N, 28.11W. The submarine was destroyed by depth charges from the Free French corvette Lobelia. All 47 crew members perished, with no survivors.
Item Details:
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Original WWII Sterbebild memorial card.
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Commemorates a submariner lost with his entire crew during the height of the Battle of the Atlantic.
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Condition: As seen, with natural signs of age.
Historical Context – U-609:
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Type: Type VIIC U-boat, the most numerous and iconic U-boat class.
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Loss: The destruction of U-609 is notable as part of the Allied anti-submarine campaign, where even Free French naval forces played a decisive role in closing the Atlantic shipping lanes to German raiders.
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Crew: 47 men lost, a stark reminder of the heavy toll faced by U-boat crews.
Collector’s Note:
This death card of Willibald Engelbrecht is a tangible piece of Kriegsmarine and U-boat history, tied directly to the dramatic naval struggle of the North Atlantic. Losses to Free French forces are comparatively rare, making this a particularly interesting addition for collectors of submarine and naval memorabilia.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-578” (MIA August 1942, No Explanation)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Martin Braun, a crew member of German submarine U-578.
Service & Fate:
Martin Braun served aboard U-578, a Type VIIC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 6 August 1942, the submarine was reported missing in the Bay of Biscay. No explanation for her loss has ever been determined. The disappearance resulted in the loss of all 49 crew members, including Braun — no survivors.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild (death card) of U-boat crew member Martin Braun.
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Commemorates his sacrifice while serving aboard U-578.
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Condition: As seen; shows age and wear consistent with period.
Historical Context – U-578:
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Type: Type VIIC Atlantic-class submarine.
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Commissioned: 1941 under Kapitänleutnant Ernst-August Rehwinkel.
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Operational History: Took part in Atlantic convoy battles, credited with sinking several Allied vessels.
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Loss: Disappeared without trace in August 1942 in the Bay of Biscay; circumstances remain unknown.
Collector’s Note:
Death cards linked to U-boats lost with all hands are highly sought after, as they reflect both personal remembrance and the perilous nature of the Battle of the Atlantic, where over 70% of U-boat crews never returned. This example for Martin Braun of U-578 offers a poignant and rare memorial connection to one of the Kriegsmarine’s many missing submarines.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember (Narvikschild!) – U-Boot “U-567” (Sunk by British Sloop HMS Deptford)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Otto Lehr, a crew member of the German submarine U-567.
Service & Fate:
Lehr served aboard U-567, a Type VIIC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 21 December 1941, the submarine was sunk in the North Atlantic north-east of the Azores, at position 44.02N, 20.10W, after being attacked with depth charges from the British sloop HMS Deptford. The boat was lost with all 47 crew members.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild memorial card.
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Commemorates a sailor lost at sea with his boat during the height of the Battle of the Atlantic.
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Condition: As seen, with light age wear consistent with period pieces.
Historical Context – U-567:
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Type: Type VIIC U-boat, the workhorse of the German submarine fleet.
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Role: Assigned to the 1st U-boat Flotilla, U-567 operated in the North Atlantic.
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Commander: At the time of her loss, U-567 was under Kapitänleutnant Engelbert Endrass, a Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves holder and one of Germany’s notable U-boat aces.
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Loss: The sinking marked the end of Endrass’s career and deprived the Kriegsmarine of one of its most promising young commanders.
Collector’s Note:
This death card is not only a memorial to Otto Lehr but also directly connected to Kapitänleutnant Endrass, one of the most famous U-boat commanders. With all 47 hands lost, U-567’s sinking reflects the extreme risks of submarine warfare. An evocative and historically significant piece for collectors of Kriegsmarine and U-boat memorabilia.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-520” (Sunk by Canadian Digby aircraft)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Josef Schillinger, a crew member of the German submarine U-520.
Service & Fate:
Schillinger served aboard U-520, a Type IXC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 30 October 1942, the submarine was sunk in the North Atlantic east of Newfoundland, at position 47.47N, 49.50W, by depth charges from a Canadian Digby aircraft (No. 10 Squadron RCAF/Z). The entire crew of 53 men perished — all hands lost.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild memorial card.
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Commemorates a sailor lost with his boat during the Battle of the Atlantic.
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Condition: As seen, with period patina and age wear.
Historical Context – U-520:
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Type: Type IXC U-boat, designed for long-range patrols in distant waters.
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Patrols: Operated in the Atlantic during 1942, a period of high U-boat activity against Allied shipping.
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Loss: The sinking by Canadian forces highlights the growing effectiveness of Allied anti-submarine warfare in the Northwest Atlantic by late 1942.
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Casualties: All 53 crew members lost, making this Sterbebild a poignant remembrance of the human cost of submarine warfare.
Collector’s Note:
Death cards from U-boat crew members are especially collectible when connected to boats that suffered the fate of total loss at sea. This Sterbebild for Josef Schillinger of U-520 preserves the personal memory of one of the 53 sailors who perished, making it a rare and historically significant piece for collectors of Kriegsmarine and Battle of the Atlantic memorabilia.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-460” (Sunk by US Avenger & Wildcraft Aircraft)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Hans Hobelsberger, a crew member of German submarine U-460.
Service & Fate:
Hans Hobelsberger served aboard U-460, a Type XIV “Milchkuh” supply submarine of the Kriegsmarine. On 4 October 1943, while operating in the North Atlantic north of the Azores, the U-boat was attacked by aircraft from the American escort carrier USS Card (CVE-11). Depth charges dropped by Avenger and Wildcat aircraft of VC-9 Squadron sank the submarine at position 43.18N, 28.58W. Out of the crew, 62 men perished and only 2 survived.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild (death card) commemorating Hans Hobelsberger.
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A solemn remembrance of his service aboard U-460.
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Condition: As seen, with period patina and wear.
Historical Context – U-460:
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Type: Type XIV supply submarine (“Milchkuh”).
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Commissioned: 1941 under Korvettenkapitän Friedrich Schäfer.
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Role: Served as a critical mid-Atlantic tanker and supply boat, refueling combat U-boats far from base.
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Loss: Destroyed in October 1943 during intensified Allied anti-submarine operations — part of the turning tide in the Battle of the Atlantic.
Collector’s Note:
Death cards related to supply U-boats (Milchkühe) are exceptionally rare, as these submarines were few in number and most were lost in 1943–44. The card of Hans Hobelsberger represents not only the human cost of submarine warfare but also the vital role of the “Milchkühe” in sustaining U-boat operations across the Atlantic. A scarce and highly desirable item for collectors of U-boat history and Battle of the Atlantic memorabilia.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-460” (Sunk by US Avenger & Wildcraft Aircraft)
€30,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Anton Bergbauer, a crew member of the German submarine U-460.
Service & Fate:
Bergbauer served aboard U-460, a Type XIV “Milchkuh” supply submarine of the Kriegsmarine. On 4 October 1943, the boat was sunk in the North Atlantic north of the Azores, at position 43.18N, 28.58W, by depth charges from Avenger and Wildcat aircraft (VC-9) of the American escort carrier USS Card. Of the crew, 62 men were killed and only 2 survived.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild memorial card.
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Commemorates a sailor lost with his boat in one of the rare supply U-boat sinkings.
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Condition: As seen, with natural age wear and patina.
Historical Context – U-460:
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Type: Type XIV U-boat (nicknamed Milchkuh or “Milk Cow”), designed to resupply other U-boats at sea.
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Role: These boats carried fuel, torpedoes, food, and provisions, greatly extending the range of attack submarines during the Battle of the Atlantic.
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Loss: The sinking of U-460 was part of the concerted Allied effort to hunt down and destroy Milchkuh U-boats, severely weakening German U-boat endurance in the Atlantic.
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Casualties: The destruction of U-460 with 62 dead illustrates the high risks faced by even non-combatant support submarines.
Collector’s Note:
Sterbebilder from supply U-boats are especially scarce due to the limited number of these vessels built and their strategic importance. This death card for Anton Bergbauer offers a rare memorial to one of the sailors lost in the sinking of U-460, making it a significant and poignant addition for collectors of Kriegsmarine and Battle of the Atlantic relics.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-384” (Sunk by British Fortress!)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Karl Huf, a crew member of the German submarine U-384.
Service & Fate:
Karl Huf served aboard U-384, a Type VIIC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 19 March 1943, at 1745 hrs, the submarine was sunk in the North Atlantic west of Ireland, at position 54.18N, 26.15W. The sinking was caused by depth charges dropped by a British Fortress aircraft (206 Sqn RAF/B). All 47 crew members were lost — no survivors.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild commemorating Karl Huf.
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A poignant relic tied to the Battle of the Atlantic.
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Condition: As seen, with natural age-related wear.
Historical Context – U-384:
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Type: Type VIIC, the workhorse of the German U-Bootwaffe.
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Patrols: Conducted only two patrols.
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Loss: Destroyed during the height of the 1943 “air gap” battles, when Allied aircraft extended their coverage deep into the Atlantic.
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Legacy: The destruction of U-384 illustrates the increasing vulnerability of German U-boats during the critical turning point of the Battle of the Atlantic.
Collector’s Note:
This death card serves as both a personal memorial and a tangible link to the brutal campaign waged beneath the Atlantic waves. Pieces connected to U-boat crews lost with all hands are particularly valued, reflecting the tragic sacrifices of the U-Bootwaffe.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-332” (Sunk by British Liberator)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) commemorating Josef Schneider, a crew member of the German submarine U-332.
Service & Fate:
Schneider served aboard U-332, a Type VIIC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 29 April 1943, U-332 was sunk in the Bay of Biscay north of Cape Finisterre, Spain, at position 45.08N, 09.33W. The submarine was destroyed by depth charges from a British Liberator aircraft of No. 224 Squadron RAF (D). All 45 men on board were lost, with no survivors.
Item Details:
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Original WWII Sterbebild memorial card.
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Honors a fallen U-boat crewman from the Battle of the Atlantic.
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Condition: As seen, with period age wear.
Historical Context – U-332:
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Type: Type VIIC U-boat, the backbone of Germany’s submarine fleet.
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Patrols: Before her loss, U-332 completed several war patrols and successfully attacked Allied shipping.
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Loss: By spring 1943, Allied anti-submarine measures, including long-range patrol aircraft like the Liberator, were turning the tide of the Atlantic war. U-332’s destruction was part of this intensified campaign.
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Crew: 45 dead (all hands lost) highlights the extreme risks and fatal outcomes common among U-boat crews.
Collector’s Note:
This memorial card for Josef Schneider of U-332 represents not only the sacrifice of one man but also the fate of an entire U-boat crew during the turning point of the Battle of the Atlantic. A poignant and historically significant addition for any Kriegsmarine or U-boat collection.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-254” (Sunk due Collission with U-221!)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) honoring Heinrich Jerzenbeck, a crew member of the German submarine U-254.
Service & Fate:
Jerzenbeck served aboard U-254, a Type VIIC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 8 December 1942, while operating in the North Atlantic south-east of Cape Farewell, Greenland, U-254 collided with U-221 at position 58.45N, 33.02W. The submarine was lost with 41 men killed, while only 4 survived.
Item Details:
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Original WWII Sterbebild memorial card.
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Commemorates a fallen U-boat crewman from the Atlantic campaign.
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Condition: As seen, with age wear consistent with period authenticity.
Historical Context – U-254:
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Type: VIIC U-boat, the standard class of Germany’s U-Bootwaffe.
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Patrols: Prior to its loss, U-254 had operated against Allied shipping during the critical mid-war period.
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Fate: The loss highlights the extreme dangers of U-boat service—not only from enemy action but also from accidents at sea.
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Casualties: 41 dead, 4 survivors, making this one of the rare instances of U-boat losses caused by a collision with another German submarine.
Collector’s Note:
A poignant and scarce Kriegsmarine death card, tied to the tragic story of U-254. Items related to submarines lost through non-combat accidents are particularly notable, offering a unique perspective on the dangers faced by U-boat crews. A meaningful addition to any U-boat or Kriegsmarine collection.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-226” (Sunk East of Newfoundland, UK)
€50,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Sepp Grundl, a crew member of the German submarine U-226.
Service & Fate:
Grundl served aboard U-226, a Type VIIC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 6 November 1943, the submarine was sunk in the North Atlantic east of Newfoundland, at position 44.49N, 41.13W, by depth charges from the British sloops HMS Starling, HMS Woodcock, and HMS Kite. The entire crew of 51 men perished — all hands lost.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild memorial card.
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Dedicated to a fallen U-boat sailor.
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Condition: As seen, with period patina and light age wear.
Historical Context – U-226:
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Type: Type VIIC U-boat, the most common German submarine class of WWII.
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Operations: Conducted Atlantic patrols during the height of the Battle of the Atlantic.
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Loss: Destroyed in November 1943 during heavy Allied anti-submarine operations by escort groups.
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Significance: U-226’s destruction underlines the increasing effectiveness of Allied convoy escorts and hunter-killer groups from 1943 onward.
Collector’s Note:
Death cards from U-boat crewmen are highly collectible, especially when tied to boats where all hands were lost. This example for Sepp Grundl of U-226 offers a personal and poignant remembrance of the immense risks faced by U-boat sailors during the later, deadly phase of the Battle of the Atlantic.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-215” (Sunk East of Boston, US!)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Ferdinand Popijal, a crew member of German submarine U-215.
Service & Fate:
Ferdinand Popijal served aboard U-215, a Type VIID minelaying U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 3 July 1942, during its first patrol, U-215 was sunk in the North Atlantic east of Boston at position 41.48N, 66.38W. The submarine was destroyed by depth charges from the British anti-submarine trawler HMS Le Tiger, while attempting to lay mines off Halifax. All 48 crew members perished — no survivors.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild (death card) for Ferdinand Popijal.
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A poignant memorial to a fallen sailor of U-215.
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Condition: As seen, with age-related wear.
Historical Context – U-215:
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Type: Type VIID minelaying U-boat, one of only six built.
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Commissioned: 1941 under Kapitänleutnant Fritz Hoevelmann.
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Patrols: Only one war patrol.
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Final Mission: Attempted to lay mines in Canadian waters; sunk before completing its operation.
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Legacy: Its wreck was located in 2004 off Nova Scotia, designated a war grave.
Collector’s Note:
Death cards from the rare Type VIID minelaying U-boats are scarce, as these submarines were few in number and most were lost with all hands. The card of Ferdinand Popijal thus offers not only a personal link to the fallen crew but also to a very rare class of U-boat, making it a highly desirable piece for collectors of Kriegsmarine and Battle of the Atlantic memorabilia.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-194” (Sunk by US Catalina Aircraft)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Heinrich Lutz, a crew member of German submarine U-194.
Service & Fate:
Heinrich Lutz served aboard U-194, a Type IXC/40 long-range U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 24 June 1943, during its maiden patrol, U-194 was sunk in the North Atlantic south-west of Iceland at position 59.00N, 26.18W. The submarine was destroyed by a newly introduced Fido homing torpedo launched from a U.S. Navy Catalina aircraft (VP-84 USN/G). All 54 crew members perished — there were no survivors.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild (death card) of Heinrich Lutz.
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A solemn memorial from one of the U-boat arm’s darkest periods.
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Condition: As seen, with expected age wear.
Historical Context – U-194:
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Type: Type IXC/40, a larger and longer-ranged variant of the Type IX U-boat.
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Commissioned: 1942 under Korvettenkapitän Hermann Hess.
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Patrols: Only one, beginning in June 1943.
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Significance: U-194 was among the first U-boats destroyed by the revolutionary Fido (Mk 24 “Mine”) acoustic homing torpedo, marking a turning point in Allied anti-submarine warfare.
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Legacy: Its loss exemplified the increasing danger faced by U-boat crews in 1943, the “black year” of the U-boat arm.
Collector’s Note:
This death card represents not just a single fallen sailor, but also a key moment in U-boat history — the devastating effectiveness of Allied technological advances against the once-feared “grey wolves” of the Atlantic. With U-194 lost on her very first patrol, such pieces are scarce and highly desirable for collectors of Kriegsmarine and U-Bootwaffe history.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-189” (Sunk by British Liberator)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Xaver Ehrensperger, a crew member of German submarine U-189.
Service & Fate:
Xaver Ehrensperger served aboard U-189, a Type IXC/40 U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 23 April 1943, U-189 was sunk in the North Atlantic east of Cape Farewell, Greenland, at position 59.50N, 34.43W. The submarine was destroyed by depth charges dropped from a British Consolidated B-24 Liberator of No. 120 Squadron RAF (pilot: F/O D.E. Curtis).
The sinking resulted in the loss of all 54 crew members, including Ehrensperger — no survivors.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild (death card) of Xaver Ehrensperger.
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Commemorates his sacrifice while serving on U-189.
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Condition: As seen; light handling wear consistent with age.
Historical Context – U-189:
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Type: Type IXC/40 ocean-going U-boat.
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Commissioned: 1942 under Kapitänleutnant Hellmut Kallmann.
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Operations: Operated in the North Atlantic against Allied convoys.
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Loss: Destroyed on her first patrol in April 1943, with the total loss of crew.
Collector’s Note:
Death cards linked to U-boat crews lost with all hands are highly sought after, as they represent both personal remembrance and the broader tragedy of the Battle of the Atlantic. This example for Xaver Ehrensperger of U-189 is a poignant reminder of the extreme dangers faced by German submariners, who suffered some of the highest casualty rates of any service in WWII.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-375” (Sunk by British Destroyers)
€55,00Original WII death card (Sterbebild) for Rudolf Braun, a crew member of the German submarine U-74.
Service & Fate:
Rudolf Braun served aboard U-74, a Type VIIB U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 2 May 1942, the submarine was sunk in the Mediterranean east-southeast of Cartagena, Spain, at position 37.12N, 00.01E, by depth charges from the British destroyers HMS Wishart and HMS Wrestler. The entire crew of 47 men perished — no survivors.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild memorial card.
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Commemorates the ultimate sacrifice of a U-boat crewman.
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Condition: As seen, with period patina and age-related wear.
Historical Context – U-74:
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Type: Type VIIB U-boat, an early but effective design.
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Operations: Served in the Atlantic and later the Mediterranean, supporting Axis naval operations.
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Loss: Destroyed in May 1942 during the intensified Allied anti-submarine campaign in the Mediterranean.
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Significance: U-74’s sinking highlighted the increasing dangers U-boats faced in contested waters, particularly from coordinated destroyer patrols.
Collector’s Note:
Death cards from U-boat crews represent both personal remembrance and a stark reminder of the heavy toll of the Battle of the Atlantic and Mediterranean. With all hands lost, this piece offers a direct and human connection to the men who served — and died — in the Kriegsmarine’s submarine arm.
Gerhard Mokros – Grenadier-Regiment 331 & 423 (Eichenlaub)
€25,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Gerhard Mokros. Oberst Gerhard Mokros (18.03.1909 in Dresden † 03.04.1996 in Sonthofen) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on November 18, 1942 as Leutnant und Führer of the 7. Kompanie/ Infanterie-Regiment 331 of the 167. Infanterie-Division and the Eichenlaub on May 5, 1945 as Oberst und Kommandeur of the Grenadier-Regiment 423 of the 212. Volksgrenadier-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Bruno Belz – Panzer-Grenadier-Regiment 25 (12. Panzer-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Bruno Belz. Hauptmann Bruno Belz (05.05.1916 † 08.02.1991) earned the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on March 6, 1943 with Stabskompanie/ Panzer-Grenadier-Regiment 25 and the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on April 30, 1945 as Oberleutnant und Chef of the 3. Kompanie/ Panzer-Grenadier-Regiment 25 of the 12. Panzer-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Walter Krupinski – Jagdgeschwader 52 (Eichenlaub, 197 Victories!)
€25,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Walter Krupinski. Oberleutnant Walter Krupinski (11.11.1920 † 07.10.2000) earned the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on October 27, 1942 as Leutnant in the 6. Staffel/ Jagdgeschwader 52, the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on October 29, 1942 as Leutnant in the 6. Staffel/ Jagdgeschwader 52 and the Eichenlaub on March 2, 1944 as Oberleutnant und Staffelkapitän of the 7. Staffel/ Jagdgeschwader 52. Large size: 17,5×112,7cm.
Walter Kupinski achieved 197 victories in over 1100 operational sorties during the Second World War.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Günther Rall – Jagdgeschwader 52 (Schwertern, 275 Victories!) (Large Size!)
€60,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Günther Rall. Major Günther Rall (10.03.1918 † 04.10.2009) earned the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on December 15, 1941 with the 8. Staffel/ Jagdgeschwader 52, the Ritterkreuz on September 4, 1942 as Oberleutnant und Staffelkapitän of the 8. Staffel/ Jagdgeschwader 52 (65 aerial victories), the Eichenlaub on October 26, 1942 as as Oberleutnant und Staffelkapitän of the 8. Staffel/ Jagdgeschwader 52 (65 aerial victories) and the Schwertern on September 12, 1943 as Hauptmann und Gruppekommodore of the III. Gruppe/ Jagdgeschwader 52 (200 aerial victories). Large size: 25 x 20 cm.
Read more about Günther Rall (Wikipedia)
Siegfried Hass – 170. Infanterie-Division
€35,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Siegfried Hass. Generalleutnant Siegfried Hass (07.06.1898 † 14.12.1987) earned the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on September 12, 1942 with Infanterie-Regiment 57 and the Ritterkreuz on February 18, 1945 as Generalleutnant und Kommandeur of the 170. Infanterie-Division.
Wolfgang Wahl – Panzer-Regiment 8 (Afrika)
€80,00Original Rare Postwar Signature of Wolfgang Wahl. Major Wolfgang Wahl (15.07.1913 † 26.09.1986) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on January 6, 1942 as Hauptmann und Kommandeur of the II. Abteilung/ Panzer-Regiment 8 of the 15. Panzer-Division.
Walter Elflein – Grenadier-Regiment 95 (17. Infanterie-Division) (Eichenlaub)
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Walter Elflein. Major der Reserve Walter Elflein (10.12.1914 † 30.12.2000) earned the Ritterkreuz on October 8, 1943 as Oberleutnant und Führer of the 2. Kompanie/ Grenadier-Regiment 95 and the Eichenlaub on December 5, 1943 as Hauptmann und Kommandeur of the I. Bataillon/ Grenadier-Regiment 95 of the 17. Infanterie-Division.
Heinrich Hogrebe – Inf.-Rgt. 422 (Eichenlaub) (Grossdeutschland, Battle of Berlin)
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Heinrich Hogrebe. Oberstleutnant Heinrich Hogrebe (22.06.1913 † 25.06.1998) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on April 14, 1942 as Leutnant der Reserve with 1. Kompanie/ Infanterie-Regiment 422 and the Eichenlaub on April 13, 1944 as Hauptmann der Reserve und Kommandeur of the II. Bataillon/ Infanterie-Regiment 422 of the 126. Infanterie-Division.
Heinrich Hogrebe joined the Jäger battalion in Goslar in 1934. When the war broke out in 1939, he was at the War School in Berlin-Döberitz and was promoted to lieutenant on August 1, 1940. In October 1940 he joined Infantry Regiment 422, with which he fought in Russia from June 1941. On June 22, 1941 he was commander of the 5th company. On April 1, 1942 he was promoted to active officer and captain, on August 7, 1942 he became commander of the II Battalion. On August 17, 1942, he was awarded the Knight’s Cross for his services as a company commander. In March 1944 he was seriously wounded and on April 13, 1944 he was awarded the Oak Leaves as a major for his services as commander of the II Battalion. After his recovery, on September 1, 1944, he took over the leadership of the “Greater Germany” guard battalion in Berlin. On October 1, 1944, this battalion was upgraded to a regiment and Hogrebe became its first commander. As a lieutenant colonel, he took part in the final battles for Berlin with the regiment.
Bruno Kahl – Panzer-Regiment 21 & Panzerjäger-Regiment 656 (Eichenlaub)
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Bruno Kahl. Oberstleutnant Bruno Kahl (23.11.1914 in Köln † 27.02.1999 in Köln) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on February 8, 1943 as Hauptmann und Kommandeur of the III. Abteilung/ Panzer-Regiment 21 of the 20. Panzer-Division and the Eichenlaub on August 8, 1943 as Major und Kommandeur of the III. Abteilung/ Panzerjäger-Regiment 656.
Josef Rhein – Grenadier-Regiment 530 (299. Infanterie-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Josef Rhein. Major Josef Rhein (08.05.1917 † 15.02.2005) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on February 23, 1944 as Hauptmann und Kommandeur of the I. Bataillon/ Grenadier-Regiment 530 of the 299. Infanterie-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Josef Rhein – Grenadier-Regiment 530 (299. Infanterie-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Josef Rhein. Major Josef Rhein (08.05.1917 † 15.02.2005) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on February 23, 1944 as Hauptmann und Kommandeur of the I. Bataillon/ Grenadier-Regiment 530 of the 299. Infanterie-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Willi Wechsung – Grenadier-Regiment 426 (126. Infanterie-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Willi Wechsung. Oberleutnant Willi Wechsung (29.12.1913 in Lockhausen † 22.03.2001 in Osnabrück) earned the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on June 26, 1942 with Infanterie-Regiment 426 and the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on October 1, 1943 as Oberleutnant und Chef of the 1. Kompanie/ Grenadier-Regiment 426 of the 126. Infanterie-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Eberhard Pasternack – Infanterie-Regiment 506 (291. Infanterie-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Eberhard Pasternack. Major Eberhard Pasternack (25.11.1914 in Wiltschin † 15.12.1996 in Brauneberg) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on September 22, 1941 as Oberleutnant und Führer of the 7. Kompanie/ Infanterie-Regiment 506 of the 291. Infanterie-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Friedrich-August von Michael – Grenadier-Regiment 172 (75. Infanterie-Division)
€25,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Friedrich-August von Michael. Hauptmann Friedrich-August von Michael (10.03.1917 in Groß Plasten † 20.07.2007) earned the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on March 7, 1942 with Infanterie-Regiment 172 and the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on February 10, 1945 as Hauptmann und Kommandeur of the II. Bataillon/ Grenadier-Regiment 172 of the 75. Infanterie-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Erich Eichler – Artillerie-Regiment 20 (20. Panzer-Grenadier-Division)
€17,50Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Erich Eichler. Hauptmann Erich Eichler (19.08.1914 † 08.03.2003) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on September 21, 1944 as Hauptmann with the II. Abteilung/ Artillerie-Regiment 20 of the 20. Panzer-Grenadier-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Walther Schindler – Grenadier-Regiment 106 (15. Infanterie-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Walther Schindler. Major Walther Schindler (29.06.1917 † 31.05.2006) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on May 4, 1944 as Rittmeister und Kommandeur of the III. Bataillon/ Grenadier-Regiment 106 of the 15. Infanterie-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Gerhard Lindner – 346. Infanterie-Division (Generalmajor, Arnhem)
€65,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Gerhard Lindner. Generalmajor Gerhard Lindner (26.12.1896 in Bautzen † 04.06.1982 in Aurich) earned the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on February 7, 1943 with Grenadier-Regiment 167 and the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on May 5, 1945 as Generalmajor und Kommandeur of the 346. Infanterie-Division.
“Battles near Arnhem. Divisional commander showed great devotion to duty in the foremost line. He deployed his reserve for a deliberate counterattack on his own initiative. This counterattack pushed back the enemy and prevented them from achieving their intended breakthrough towards the north. Request for award endorsed. Generalmajor Lindner is a fearless leader of men even in the midst of fierce combat.”
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Ernst Wawrock – Jäger-Regiment 28 (8. Jäger-Division)
€25,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Ernst Wawrock. Leutnant Ernst Wawrock (21.04.1913 † 04.02.1995 in Wolfsburg) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on February 9, 1943 as Oberfeldwebel und Zugführer in the 13. Kompanie/ Jäger-Regiment 28 of the 8. Jäger-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Fritz Runge – Grenadier-Regiment 532 (383. Infanterie-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Fritz Runge. Oberleutnant Fritz Runge (06.04.1908 † 16.09.1990) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on November 2, 1943 as Leutnant und Führer of the II. Bataillon/ Grenadier-Regiment 532 of the 383. Infanterie-Division and the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on October 3, 1944 as Oberleutnant with the 8. Kompanie/ Grenadier-Regiment 532.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Harald Nugiseks – 20. Waffen-Grenadier-Division der SS (estnische Nr. 1)
€35,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Harald Nugiseks. Waffen-Oberscharführer Harald Nugiseks (22.10.1921 † 02.01.2014) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on April 9, 1944 as Waffen-Unterscharführer und Zugführer in the 1. Kompanie/ SS-Freiwilligen-Grenadier-Regiment 46 of the 20. Waffen-Grenadier-Division der SS (estnische Nr. 1).
Rudolf von Ribbentrop – SS-Panzer-Regiment 1 “LSSAH” & 12 “Hitlerjugend”
€55,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Rudolf von Ribbentrop. SS-Hauptsturmführer Rudolf von Ribbentrop (11.05.1921 in Wiesbaden † 20.05.2019 in Ratingen) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on July 15, 1943 as SS-Obersturmführer und Führer of the 6. Kompanie/ SS-Panzer-Regiment 1 of the 1. SS-Panzer-Division “LSSAH” and the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on August 25, 1944 with the 3. Kompanie/ SS-Panzer-Regiment 12 of the 12. SS-Panzer-Division “Hitlerjugend”. Postcardsize. Condition as seen.
Rudolf von Ribbentrop – SS-Panzer-Regiment 1 “LSSAH” & 12 “Hitlerjugend”
€55,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Rudolf von Ribbentrop. SS-Hauptsturmführer Rudolf von Ribbentrop (11.05.1921 in Wiesbaden † 20.05.2019 in Ratingen) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on July 15, 1943 as SS-Obersturmführer und Führer of the 6. Kompanie/ SS-Panzer-Regiment 1 of the 1. SS-Panzer-Division “LSSAH” and the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on August 25, 1944 with the 3. Kompanie/ SS-Panzer-Regiment 12 of the 12. SS-Panzer-Division “Hitlerjugend”. Postcardsize. Condition as seen.
Rudolf von Ribbentrop – SS-Panzer-Regiment 1 “LSSAH” & 12 “Hitlerjugend”
€55,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Rudolf von Ribbentrop. SS-Hauptsturmführer Rudolf von Ribbentrop (11.05.1921 in Wiesbaden † 20.05.2019 in Ratingen) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on July 15, 1943 as SS-Obersturmführer und Führer of the 6. Kompanie/ SS-Panzer-Regiment 1 of the 1. SS-Panzer-Division “LSSAH” and the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on August 25, 1944 with the 3. Kompanie/ SS-Panzer-Regiment 12 of the 12. SS-Panzer-Division “Hitlerjugend”. Postcardsize. Condition as seen.
Kurt Dix – Grenadier-Regiment 510 (293. Infanterie-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Kurt Dix. Feldwebel Kurt Dix (29.08.1908 in Zeitz † 30.07.1994 in Schenefeld) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on March 31, 1943 as Feldwebel und Kompanie-Truppführer of 2. Kompanie/ Grenadier-Regiment 510 of the 293. Infanterie-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Rudolf Smollich – Füsilier-Bataillon 168 (168. Infanterie-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Rudolf Smollich. Hauptmann Rudolf Smollich (03.09.1913 in Langendorf † 09.09.1998 in Wiesbaden) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on November 16, 1944 as Oberleutnant und Führer of the Füsilier-Bataillon 168 of the 168. Infanterie-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Karl Ziegler – Jäger-Regiment 207 (97. Jäger-Division)
€25,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Karl Ziegler. Major Karl Ziegler (01.11.1905 in Lagenlois † 12.01.1992 in Bregenz (Austria)) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on April 8, 1943 as Major und Kommandeur of the III. Bataillon/ Jäger-Regiment 207 of the 97. Jäger-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Eugen Sonntag – Grenadier-Regiment 117 (98. Infanterie-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Eugen Sonntag. Hauptmann Eugen Sonntag (06.03.1911 in Münchenreute † 2003) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on December 9, 1944 as Hauptmann und Kommandeur of the I. Bataillon/ Grenadier-Regiment 117 of the 98. Infanterie-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.
Eugen Sonntag – Grenadier-Regiment 117 (98. Infanterie-Division)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Eugen Sonntag. Hauptmann Eugen Sonntag (06.03.1911 in Münchenreute † 2003) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on December 9, 1944 as Hauptmann und Kommandeur of the I. Bataillon/ Grenadier-Regiment 117 of the 98. Infanterie-Division.
Provenance: This signature comes from one of the largest postwar signature collection I’ve ever commissioned. This collection was started by a Waffen-SS Veteran, Werner H., in the 1950’s until he passed away.