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Original Scarce Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Richard Schulze-Kossens. SS-Obersturmbannführer Richard Schulze-Kossens (2 October 1914, Schwedt/Oder † 3 July 1988, Bad Nauheim) was a senior Waffen-SS officer who rose to the rank of SS-Obersturmbannführer during the Second World War. A decorated front-line commander and staff officer, he was awarded the German Cross in Gold and served in several high-profile positions, including as Personal Adjutant to Adolf Hitler.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 26 December 1941, as SS-Hauptsturmführer and commander of 2. Kompanie, Leibstandarte-SS “Adolf Hitler”.

Career Highlights:

• Early member of the Leibstandarte-SS Adolf Hitler (LSSAH), where he distinguished himself in combat on the Eastern Front.

• Decorated with the German Cross in Gold for bravery and leadership during the bitter fighting of 1941.

• Served as Personal Adjutant to Adolf Hitler, a position of high trust and prestige within the regime’s inner circle.

• Later returned to front-line duty, serving as regimental commander of the SS-Panzergrenadier-Regiment 25 of the 12. SS-Panzer-Division “Hitlerjugend”.

• In 1945, appointed Kommandeur of the 38. SS-Grenadier-Division “Nibelungen”, one of the last Waffen-SS formations raised in the final months of the war.

• Survived the conflict and imprisonment, later living in West Germany until his death in 1988.

Item Details:

• Authentic scarce postwar signature of SS-Obersturmbannführer Richard Schulze-Kossens.

• Signed on a postwar photograph and accompanying letter.

• Condition: Clear, well-preserved examples of autograph material.

Collector’s Note:
Richard Schulze-Kossens’s combination of roles — as a decorated Waffen-SS combat officer, adjutant to Adolf Hitler, and commander of both elite and late-war formations — makes his signed material particularly desirable. The inclusion of both a photograph and letter with his original postwar signature makes this offering especially rare and significant for advanced collectors of Waffen-SS history and Third Reich leadership memorabilia.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Max-Josef Pemsel. Generalleutnant Max-Josef Pemsel (15 January 1897, Regensburg † 30 June 1985, Munich) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. A veteran of both World Wars, he distinguished himself as commander of the 6. Gebirgs-Division in northern Finland, where he was awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross and cited in the Wehrmachtbericht. After the war, Pemsel became a senior officer in the Bundeswehr, serving as NATO commander in Schleswig-Holstein.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 9 December 1944, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of 6. Gebirgs-Division.

  Awarded for his leadership during the rearguard battles of early October 1944, when German forces retreated from northern Finland. Pemsel played a decisive role in enabling major elements of the 20. Gebirgsarmee to escape. Under his command, the Petsamo–Kirkenes road was reopened after heavy fighting, preventing a Soviet encirclement of the 6. Gebirgs-Division and frustrating a pincer attack against XIX. Gebirgs-Armeekorps. His actions earned him not only the Knight’s Cross, but also a commendation in the Wehrmachtbericht of 3 November 1944.

Career Highlights:

• Served as an officer in World War I, later continuing his career in the Reichswehr.

• Developed as a skilled staff officer during the interwar years.

• Commanded the 6. Gebirgs-Division, where he distinguished himself in the demanding Arctic and Finnish theaters.

• Later served as Chief of Staff of the 7. Armee in 1944, overseeing defenses in Normandy during the D-Day invasion.

• Captured in 1945 and released from captivity in 1948.

• Entered the Bundeswehr in 1956, rising to Generalleutnant and serving as NATO’s commander in Schleswig-Holstein until his retirement.

• Lived in Munich until his death in 1985.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Max-Josef Pemsel.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Pemsel’s recognition as commander of the 6. Gebirgs-Division in Finland — including both the Knight’s Cross and a Wehrmachtbericht mention — marks him as one of the notable late-war Gebirgsjäger leaders. His long postwar service as a Bundeswehr and NATO general adds further interest, making his autograph especially appealing to collectors of both WWII mountain troops and Cold War German leadership.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Walter Krüger. General der Panzertruppe Walter Krüger (23 March 1892, Zeitz † 22 October 1973, Baden-Baden) was a highly decorated German Panzer commander who rose to the rank of General der Panzertruppe during the Second World War. Known for his leadership of the 1. Panzer-Division, he was a recipient of the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, the German Cross in Gold, and several other awards for battlefield distinction.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, 350th award) – 15 July 1941, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of 1. Schützen-Brigade, 1. Panzer-Division (mot), XXXXI. Armeekorps, Panzergruppe 4, Heeresgruppe Nord.

  Awarded for his brigade’s role in the opening weeks of Operation Barbarossa, particularly the tank battle of Rossieni–Vosiliskis (23–25 June 1941), the capture of Jakobstadt (28 June 1941), and Ostrow (4 July 1941).

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold, award 170/3) – 27 August 1942, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of 1. Panzer-Division.

• Wehrmachtbericht Mention – 14 December 1943, as Generalleutnant and Kommandeur of 1. Panzer-Division.

  The division, alongside the 68. Infanterie-Division, was officially commended for its performance in combat operations.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, 377th award) – 24 January 1944, as Generalleutnant and Kommandeur of 1. Panzer-Division, XXXXVIII. Panzerkorps, 4. Panzer-Armee, Heeresgruppe Süd.

  Awarded for distinguished leadership during the fighting around Zhitomir in late 1943, and especially for the clearing of the western bank of the Teterew River northeast of the city.

Career Highlights:

• Veteran of the First World War, continuing his career in the Reichswehr and then the Panzerwaffe.

• Took command of 1. Schützen-Brigade, leading from the front in the 1941 campaign in the Soviet Union.

• Elevated to divisional command of the 1. Panzer-Division, guiding it through numerous critical operations on the Eastern Front from 1942–44.

• Decorated with both the Knight’s Cross and Oak Leaves, recognized as one of Germany’s most capable armored division commanders.

• Promoted to General der Panzertruppe before the end of the war.

• Captured in 1945 and later released, living quietly in Baden-Baden until his death in 1973.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Panzertruppe Walter Krüger.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Walter Krüger’s reputation as commander of the famous 1. Panzer-Division, combined with his dual awards of the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and the German Cross in Gold, make his autograph highly sought after. His leadership in some of the most significant armored battles of the Eastern Front makes this a cornerstone piece for Panzer collectors.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Georg Graf von Rittberg. Generalleutnant Georg Graf von Rittberg (30 May 1898, Weidenau † 6 June 1973, Wiesbaden) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. A highly regarded divisional commander, he distinguished himself leading the 88. Infanterie-Division on the Eastern Front and was decorated with the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves. He was also twice honored in the official Wehrmachtbericht communiqués for the fighting spirit and toughness of his division.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold, 66/8) – 29 January 1942, as Oberstleutnant and Kommandeur of Artillerie-Regiment 131.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, 2743rd award) – 21 February 1944, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of 88. Infanterie-Division, 8. Armee, Heeresgruppe Süd.

  Awarded for his role during the breakout from the Cherkassy pocket, where he commanded part of the rearguard that shielded the flanks and rear of retreating German divisions. Following heavy fighting, he led his own men out by spearheading an energetic attack along the Dshurshenzy–Potschapinzy line.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub zum Eisernen Kreuz, 624th award) – 10 October 1944, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of 88. Infanterie-Division, XXXXII. Armeekorps, 4. Panzer-Armee, Heeresgruppe Nordukraine.

  Recognized for his command of the 88. Infanterie-Division during the summer fighting of 1944, particularly in the great Vistula bend. Under his leadership, the division counterattacked south of Opatów and held defensive positions on the northern flank of the Baranów bridgehead against repeated Soviet attacks.

• Wehrmachtbericht Mentions –
  18 July 1944: Commended for toughness in combat on the northern Eastern Front.
  19 August 1944: Cited for unshakeable courage and reckless determination during the defensive battles in the great bend of the Vistula.

Career Highlights:

• Served in World War I, remaining in the Reichswehr throughout the interwar years as an artillery officer.

• Commanded Artillerie-Regiment 131, where his leadership brought him the German Cross in Gold in 1942.

• Promoted to command the 88. Infanterie-Division, gaining the Knight’s Cross at Cherkassy in 1944 and later the Oak Leaves during the Vistula battles.

• Promoted to Generalleutnant, continuing to lead in the final year of the war.

• Survived captivity and lived in Wiesbaden until his death in 1973.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Georg Graf von Rittberg.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Georg Graf von Rittberg’s reputation as a tough divisional commander, his two Wehrmachtbericht mentions, and his award of the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves make his signature especially desirable. A scarce and historically significant piece for collectors of Knight’s Cross recipients and Eastern Front commanders.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Erich Dethleffsen. Generalleutnant Erich Dethleffsen (2 August 1904, Kiel † 4 July 1980, Kiel) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. A career General Staff officer, he was decorated with both the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his service in senior staff positions on the Eastern Front. He was also the son-in-law of Generaloberst Nikolaus von Falkenhorst, the architect of the invasions of Norway and Denmark.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 1 May 1942, as Oberstleutnant im Generalstab with 330. Infanterie-Division, Heer.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 23 December 1943, as Oberst im Generalstab and Chef des Generalstabes of XXXIX. Panzerkorps, Heer.

  Submitted on 24 November 1943; preliminary document and decoration issued on 31 December 1943 at AOK 4.

Career Highlights:

• Entered the Reichswehr as a young officer and advanced through the interwar years into the General Staff.

• Served with 330. Infanterie-Division, where his planning and organizational skills during Eastern Front operations earned him the German Cross in Gold in 1942.

• Promoted to Oberst im Generalstab, serving as Chief of Staff of XXXIX. Panzerkorps, where his contributions to operational command led to the award of the Knight’s Cross in late 1943.

• Advanced to Generalleutnant by the end of the war.

• Captured by Allied forces in 1945 and released after captivity.

• After the war, he published works on German military history and strategy, contributing to the Bundeswehr’s postwar intellectual framework.

• Lived in Kiel until his death in 1980.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Erich Dethleffsen.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Original Scarce Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Helmut Kinz. SS-Sturmbannführer und Major der Schutzpolizei Helmut Kinz (1 December 1915, Nagykanizsa † 19 October 1985, Klagenfurt) was a Waffen-SS and police officer who rose to the rank of SS-Sturmbannführer and Major of the Schutzpolizei during the Second World War. He is best remembered as the last commander of the Waffen-Gebirgs-Aufklärungs-Abteilung 13, the reconnaissance battalion of the 13. Waffen-Gebirgs-Division der SS “Handschar” (kroatische Nr. 1). For his leadership in the final days of the war, he was awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross.

Award:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 3 May 1945, as SS-Sturmbannführer and Kommandeur of Waffen-Gebirgs-Aufklärungs-Abteilung 13, 13. Waffen-Gebirgs-Division der SS “Handschar”.

Career Highlights:

• Joined the police and later transferred to the Waffen-SS, advancing steadily through both organizations.

• Appointed commander of the Waffen-Gebirgs-Aufklärungs-Abteilung 13, responsible for reconnaissance and mobile operations within the “Handschar” Division.

• Led his unit during the final chaotic months of the war in the Balkans, where his command performance earned him the Knight’s Cross in May 1945—among the last decorations of its kind awarded.

• Captured at the end of the war and later released.

• Lived in postwar Austria until his death in 1985.

Item Details:

• Authentic scarce postwar signature of SS-Sturmbannführer Helmut Kinz.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Good, with a clear and well-preserved autograph.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Friedrich August Freiherr von der Heydte. Oberst Friedrich August Freiherr von der Heydte (30 March 1907, München † 7 July 1994, Aham) was a German paratroop officer of the Luftwaffe during the Second World War, rising to the rank of Oberst. He earned the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves for his leadership of Fallschirmjäger units in some of the most famous airborne and defensive operations of the war.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 21 August 1940, as Hauptmann and Kommandeur of IV./Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 1.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 8 February 1945, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 6.

Career Highlights:

• Entered military service before the outbreak of WWII, joining the elite Fallschirmjäger arm of the Luftwaffe.

• Commanded IV./Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 1 during the early airborne operations of 1940, where his leadership earned him the Knight’s Cross.

• Fought in multiple theaters including Crete, Italy, and Normandy, gaining a reputation as one of the most experienced paratroop commanders.

• In December 1944, during the Battle of the Bulge, he led Operation Stösser, the last major German airborne operation of the war.

• Awarded the Oak Leaves in 1945 for his leadership of Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 6 during these late-war battles.

• After the war, became a respected law professor, politician (CSU), and author, writing extensively on military, political, and legal issues.

• Lived until 1994, making him one of the longest-lived Oak Leaves recipients.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Oberst Friedrich August Freiherr von der Heydte.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Von der Heydte is among the most recognized Fallschirmjäger leaders of the Second World War. His association with Operation Stösser and his long, active postwar career as an academic and politician make his autograph especially significant. Highly desirable for collectors of elite airborne units, Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves recipients, and Luftwaffe ground commanders.

Original Wartime Signature on a Postcard of Max-Günther Schrank. Generalleutnant Max-Günther Schrank (19 November 1898 † 22 September 1960) was a decorated officer of the Wehrmacht, best remembered for his service in the elite Gebirgstruppe during the Second World War. Rising through the ranks, he ultimately commanded the 5. Gebirgs-Division.

Award:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 17 July 1941, as Oberst and Kommandeur of I./Gebirgsjäger-Regiment 100, 5. Gebirgs-Division.

  Oberstleutnant Schrank has especially distinguished himself by his personal bravery and decisiveness. Through the encirclement and capture of the elusive enemy forces in the south of Crete on 1 June 1941, the operations on the island could be brought to a successful conclusion. Schrank has secured a decisive share in the total victory over the English troops.

Career Highlights:

• A career officer who entered service during the First World War.

• Served extensively with the 5. Gebirgs-Division, one of the Wehrmacht’s most respected mountain units.

• Took part in campaigns across the Balkans, Crete, and the Eastern Front.

• Later rose to the rank of Generalleutnant, commanding a full division in combat.

Item Details:

• Authentic wartime signature of Max-Günther Schrank.

• Signed on a postcard-sized medium.

• Condition: Good, preserved with clear autograph.

• Measurements: Standard postcard format.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Gordon Mac Gollob. Generalmajor Gordon Mac Gollob (16 June 1912, Vienna † 7 September 1987, Sullingen) was one of the Luftwaffe’s most renowned fighter aces of the Second World War, ultimately rising to the rank of Generalmajor der Luftwaffe. Over the course of his career he achieved 150 aerial victories, becoming one of the elite recipients of the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 18 September 1941, as Hauptmann and Kommandeur of II./Jagdgeschwader 3 “Udet” (JG 3), after 42 confirmed aerial victories.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz) – 26 October 1941, as Hauptmann and Kommandeur of II./JG 3 “Udet”, for reaching 85 aerial victories.

• Swords to the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves (Schwerter zum Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub) – 23 June 1942, as Hauptmann and Führer of Jagdgeschwader 77 (JG 77), for surpassing 107 aerial victories.

• Diamonds to the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords (Brillanten zum Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern) – 30 August 1942, as Major and Kommodore of Jagdgeschwader 77 “Herz As”, after achieving 150 aerial victories.

• Additionally, he received the Combined Pilot-Observer Badge with Diamonds (Gemeinsames Flugzeugführer- und Beobachterabzeichen mit Brillanten), one of the Luftwaffe’s rarest distinctions.

Career Highlights:

• Entered the Luftwaffe before WWII and quickly rose as a skilled pilot.

• Built his reputation as one of the Luftwaffe’s premier Experten (fighter aces) during the Eastern Front campaigns.

• Commanded both JG 3 “Udet” and JG 77 “Herz As”, leading his Gruppen and Geschwader with distinction.

• Later in the war, promoted to higher command responsibilities, including positions as an inspector within the fighter arm.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Paper of Wilhelm Thomas. Generalleutnant Wilhelm Thomas (8 October 1892 † 24 August 1976) was a career officer in the German Army who rose to divisional command during the Second World War. He earned the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership on the Eastern Front.

Award:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 13 October 1941, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Infanterie-Regiment 71, 29. Infanterie-Division (mot.).

Career Highlights:

• Served as a young officer in the First World War and continued his career in the interwar Reichswehr.

• Distinguished himself during the invasion of the Soviet Union as commander of Infanterie-Regiment 71, part of the 29. Infanterie-Division (mot.), earning the Knight’s Cross in October 1941.

• Later promoted to Generalleutnant, commanding multiple infantry divisions on the Eastern Front during the later stages of the war.

• Captured in 1945 and held in Allied captivity before returning to Germany.

• Lived in postwar Germany until his death in 1976.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Wilhelm Thomas.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear autograph, well-preserved.

Original Rare Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photograph of Gustav Sieß. Generalleutnant Gustav Sieß (11 December 1883, Hamburg † 14 October 1970, Hamburg) distinguished himself as one of Germany’s foremost U-boat aces during World War I and later served as a high-ranking officer in the Luftwaffe during World War II.

Career Highlights & Decorations:

• As Kapitänleutnant and U‑boat commander, Sieß achieved remarkable wartime success. He sank 56 ships, totaling approximately 188,900 GRT, including the British battleship HMS Russell, the Russian battleship Peresvet, and the hospital ship Britannic, sister of the Titanic, making him one of the top submarine commanders of WWI.

• For these exploits, he was awarded the prestigious Pour le Mérite on 24  April  1918. He had previously received both classes of the Iron Cross and the Royal House Order of Hohenzollern with Swords on 27 February 1917.

Interwar & WWII Service:

• After the war, Sieß entered the commercial sector, founding a trading firm, Siess, von Loë & Co.

• In 1935, at the age of 53, he returned to military service in the Luftwaffe as a Major, serving as head of logistics at the Air Ministry in Berlin. Due to illness, he retired with the rank of Generalleutnant in 1944.

• Following the war, he was detained by Soviet authorities and sentenced to 25 years, but was released in 1955. He returned to Hamburg and lived there until his passing in 1970.

Signed on the front and back.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Wilhelm Meendsen-Bohlken. Vizeadmiral Wilhelm Meendsen-Bohlken (5 April 1897 † 13 May 1985) was a career naval officer who served in both World Wars and rose to the rank of Vice Admiral in the Kriegsmarine. He was a recipient of the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership in Italy.

Award:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross – 11 May 1944, as Vizeadmiral and Befehlshaber der Deutschen Marinekommando Italien (Commander of German Naval Command Italy).

Career Highlights:

• Entered the Imperial Navy as a cadet during World War I and gained early seagoing experience.

• Continued his naval career in the interwar Reichsmarine, specializing in staff and command positions.

• During World War II, held senior roles including Commander of German Naval Forces in Italy, directing naval operations and coordinating with Axis forces in the Mediterranean theater.

• Promoted to Vizeadmiral, one of the Kriegsmarine’s senior flag officer ranks.

• Survived the war and lived until 1985.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Vizeadmiral Wilhelm Meendsen-Bohlken.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Well-preserved with a clear autograph.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Wilhelm Meisel. Admiral Wilhelm Meisel (4 November 1891 † 7 September 1974) was a career naval officer whose service spanned both World Wars. Rising from midshipman in 1913 to Admiral in the Kriegsmarine, he commanded surface combatants in key operations and was awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership of the heavy cruiser Admiral Hipper.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross – 26 February 1941, as Kapitän zur See and commander of the heavy cruiser “Admiral Hipper”.

• Spanish Cross in Silver (6 June 1939).

Career Highlights:

• Served in World War I aboard SMS Moltke, SMS Stralsund, and the commerce raider SMS Möwe.

• Survived the scuttling of the High Seas Fleet at Scapa Flow and returned from British captivity in 1921.

• During the interwar period, commanded a torpedo boat flotilla, held staff positions, and captained the cruiser Karlsruhe in 1929.

• In World War II, led a destroyer flotilla during the Polish campaign (1939).

• As commander of the heavy cruiser Admiral Hipper, directed operations in the Atlantic, for which he received the Knight’s Cross in 1941.

• Later appointed Chief of Staff of Naval Group West (1943) and subsequently Chief of Naval Staff.

• Promoted to Admiral, one of the senior flag officers of the Kriegsmarine.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Admiral Wilhelm Meisel.

• Signed on a postwar photograph. Postcardsize.

• Condition: Excellent preserved example, with clear autograph.

Original Wartime Signature on a Photo of Günther Hoffmann-Schönborn. Major Günther Hoffmann-Schönborn (1 May 1905 † 4 April 1970) was a decorated assault gun commander of the Wehrmacht and one of the early notable leaders of the Sturmgeschütz units. He rose to prominence as Kommandeur of Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 191 “Büffel”, earning both the Knight’s Cross and Oak Leaves for his battlefield leadership.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 14 May 1941, as Major and Kommandeur of Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 191 “Büffel”.

  Awarded for his support of Gruppe Ens during the breakthrough of the Metaxas Line. Despite strong defensive fire and extremely difficult terrain, Hoffmann-Schönborn successfully brought his Sturmgeschütze into position to cover the attack of Gruppe Ens. This support proved invaluable, enabling the breakthrough of the enemy line and triggering the collapse of the front.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz) – 31 December 1941, as Major and Kommandeur of Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 191 “Büffel”.

  Awarded for the distinguished leadership of his Abteilung during the advance to the Dnieper River, the river crossing, and the subsequent encirclement battle of Kiev.

Career Highlights:

• Served in the artillery branch before being transferred to the early assault gun formations.

• As commander of Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 191, he played a decisive role in both the Balkan campaign and on the Eastern Front.

• His unit became well known for its aggressive use of assault guns in support of infantry and combined-arms operations.

Item Details:

• Authentic wartime signature of Günther Hoffmann-Schönborn.

• Size: 7.5 × 10.5 cm photograph.

• Condition: Good, with clear autograph.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Erich Schneider. Generalleutnant Erich Schneider (12 August 1894, Schwäbisch Gmünd † 3 August 1980, Crailsheim) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. A veteran of the First World War, he commanded both armored and infantry divisions and was decorated with the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves for his battlefield leadership.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 5 May 1943, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of the 4. Panzer-Division.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 6 March 1945, as Generalleutnant and Kommandeur of the 14. Infanterie-Division.

  Awarded for his successful command of the 14. Infanterie-Division during the five-day battle west, northwest, and northeast of Ostrolenka. Repeated Soviet onslaughts were repelled, preventing a breakthrough. Schneider’s presence at the front in every difficult moment—despite heavy Soviet fire—allowed him to make sound tactical decisions and set a personal example that inspired his men.

Career Highlights:

• Entered the Army during the First World War and remained in the Reichswehr through the interwar period.

• Commanded the 4. Panzer-Division in 1943, where he earned the Knight’s Cross for his leadership on the Eastern Front.

• Promoted to Generalleutnant, taking command of the 14. Infanterie-Division, where he distinguished himself in defensive battles in 1945.

• His award of the Oak Leaves recognized his leadership in the grueling fighting around Ostrolenka.

• Survived the war, captivity, and lived in postwar Germany until his death in 1980.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Erich Schneider.

• Signed on a postwar photograph, accompanied by a letter, enhancing provenance.

• Condition: Good, with a clear autograph.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Franz Sensfuß. Generalleutnant Franz Sensfuß (15 June 1891, Diedenhofen † 11 January 1976, Bonn) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant and commanded the 212. Infanterie-Division during the Second World War. He was a recipient of the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, recognized for his determined leadership against Soviet forces in 1944–45.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 22 August 1944, as Generalleutnant and Kommandeur of the 212. Infanterie-Division (Heer), for repelling numerous Soviet attacks near Szpij, northwest of Lake Narach, in mid-1944.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub zum Eisernen Kreuz, 858th award) – 9 May 1945, as Generalleutnant and Kommandeur of the 212. Infanterie-Division (Heer).

Career Highlights:

• Entered service before the First World War and served throughout that conflict.

• Advanced through the Reichswehr in the interwar years and took on key command responsibilities during WWII.

• Distinguished himself in mid-1944 while leading the 212. Infanterie-Division, successfully repelling repeated Soviet attacks near Lake Narach and stabilizing his sector under extreme pressure.

• Remained in command through the collapse of the Eastern Front, receiving the Oak Leaves in the final days of the war.

• Survived captivity and later lived in West Germany until his death in 1976.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Franz Sensfuß.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear, well-preserved autograph.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Enno Emil von Rintelen. General der Infanterie Enno von Rintelen (6 November 1891, Stettin † 7 August 1971, Heidelberg) was a German officer whose military career spanned both World Wars. Rising to the rank of General der Infanterie, he is best remembered as the German Military Attaché in Italy and later as the Wehrmacht’s official representative at the Italian Supreme Command, where he played a central role in coordinating military relations between Germany and Italy.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Silver (Deutsches Kreuz in Silber) – for his distinguished diplomatic and organizational service as German Military Attaché in Rome and representative to the Italian High Command.

• Both classes of the Iron Cross (1914), awarded during his service in the First World War.

Career Highlights:

• Entered the Prussian Army in 1910 and served throughout the First World War.

• Remained in the Reichswehr during the interwar period, holding a variety of staff and command roles.

• From 1936 to 1943, served as Military Attaché in Rome, later as German General at Comando Supremo, where he acted as liaison between the Wehrmacht and the Italian armed forces.

• Promoted through the general officer ranks, ultimately reaching General der Infanterie in 1942.

• Retired from active service in late 1944.

• After the war, authored memoirs detailing his time as attaché in Italy, offering a rare perspective on the German-Italian alliance.

• Lived in postwar Germany until his death in 1971.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Infanterie Enno von Rintelen.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear, well-preserved autograph.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Gustav Harteneck. General der Kavallerie Gustav Harteneck (27 July 1892, Landau † 13 January 1984, München) was a German cavalry officer who rose to the rank of General der Kavallerie during the Second World War. A career soldier, he commanded the I. Kavallerie-Korps on the Eastern Front and was decorated with both the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 20 March 1942, as Generalmajor in Armeeoberkommando 2.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 21 September 1944, as General der Kavallerie and Kommandeur of I. Kavallerie-Korps.

Career Highlights:

• Entered the Army before the First World War, serving in cavalry units.

• Continued his career in the interwar Reichswehr, advancing steadily through the officer ranks.

• During World War II, held senior staff and command posts before taking command of the I. Kavallerie-Korps, where he led his corps in defensive operations on the Eastern Front.

• Recognized for his leadership with the Knight’s Cross in 1944.

• Promoted to General der Kavallerie, one of the few to hold this historic cavalry rank in the later war years.

• Survived the conflict and captivity, later living in Munich until his death in 1984.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Kavallerie Gustav Harteneck.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

On offer is an original postcard-size photograph taken in February 1934 at Berchtesgaden, showing three of Germany’s most prominent senior officers of the period:

• General Wilhelm Ritter von Leeb – later Field Marshal in WWII

• General Werner von Blomberg – then Reichswehr Minister of War and Commander-in-Chief of the Wehrmacht

• General Werner von Fritsch – later Commander-in-Chief of the German Army (Heer)

This rare early photograph captures the three generals together at a key moment in the re-emerging German military hierarchy, only months after Hitler’s rise to power. Their presence in Berchtesgaden underscores the close ties between the military leadership and the new regime in 1934.

• Format: Postcard-size photograph

• Date/Location: February 1934, Berchtesgaden

• Subjects: Generals von Leeb, von Blomberg, von Fritsch

• Condition: As seen (please refer to photos)

An excellent and historically important early Third Reich photograph, featuring three men who would play central roles in the development of the Wehrmacht, with two (Blomberg and Fritsch) later brought down during the famous Blomberg–Fritsch Affair of 1938. A highly collectible piece for those interested in pre-war German military history.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Heinrich Baron von Behr. Generalmajor Heinrich Baron von Behr (26 June 1902, Roennen † 14 August 1983, Bonn) was a decorated German Army officer during the Second World War. Rising to the rank of Generalmajor, he was a two-time recipient of the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves for his battlefield leadership in North Africa and Italy.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 23 February 1944, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Grenadier-Regiment 200, 90. Panzergrenadier-Division.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 9 January 1945, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Panzergrenadier-Regiment 200, 90. Panzergrenadier-Division.

Career Highlights:

• Career officer who rose steadily through the ranks in the interwar Reichswehr.

• Commanded Grenadier-Regiment 200 and later Panzergrenadier-Regiment 200, both of the renowned 90. Panzergrenadier-Division, fighting in the Mediterranean and Italian campaigns.

• His leadership during the tough defensive battles in Italy earned him both the Knight’s Cross and later the Oak Leaves, marking him as one of the division’s most distinguished commanders.

• Promoted to Generalmajor before the end of the war.

• Survived captivity and lived in postwar Germany until his death in 1983.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Heinrich Baron von Behr.

• Signed on a postwar photograph. Postcardsize.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Original Groupphoto of Waffen-SS soldiers holding their SS Helmets in a full row! TOP! Postcardsize. Condition as seen.

Original Studioportrait of a Waffen-SS soldier. Postcardsize. Condition as seen.

Original Studioportrait of a Waffen-SS soldier. Postcardsize. Condition as seen.

Original Waffen-SS Führerschein (Waffen-SS Driver’s License) of SS-Sturmmann Max Walch serving with 2. Batterie/ SS-Totenkopf-Artillerie-Regiment of the SS-Division “Totenkopf”. Complete with a photo.

Max Walch was Killed in Action in August of 1941. See death registration card (illustation only).

Original 2nd Model DRK overseas cap (Schiffchen), complete with its national insignia correctly applied on the side. Maker marked “3”, no size stamp present. Shows only light period wear and remains in overall very good condition — fabric strong, insignia intact.

Recipient: SS-Sturmmann Karl Baldischwieler
Unit: 5. Batterie / SS-Panzer-Artillerie-Regiment 1 “Leibstandarte Adolf Hitler”
Division: 1. SS-Panzer-Division “LAH”

Contents

• Original SS-Wehrpass — well-documented, includes photo

• SS-Stammkarte

Service History

• Training: SS-Artillerie-Ersatz-Regiment

• Transfer: To 5./SS-Panzer-Artillerie-Regiment 1 (LAH) in June 1943

• Campaigns:

  • Italy (1943)

  • Eastern Front (late 1943–early 1944)

  • France, Battle of Normandy (summer 1944)

• Promotion: Advanced to SS-Sturmmann during combat, 21 June 1944

• Fate: Killed in Action on 20 August 1944 near Saint-Lambert-sur-Dives during the closing stages of the Falaise Pocket

Historical Context: The Falaise Pocket

The Battle of the Falaise Pocket (August 12–21, 1944) marked the decisive end of the German presence in Normandy. Surrounded by Allied forces, elements of the 7. Armee and 5. Panzerarmee—including divisions of the Waffen-SS—were encircled near Falaise, Trun, and Chambois.

• Over 50,000 German troops were trapped, with thousands killed and vast amounts of equipment destroyed.

• Saint-Lambert-sur-Dives, where Baldischwieler fell, became one of the last escape corridors and saw fierce, desperate fighting as units of the LAH, Hitlerjugend, and other formations tried to break out.

• Baldischwieler’s death on 20 August 1944 places him among those who perished in the final collapse of the German front in Normandy.

Condition

• As seen in photos: Wehrpass complete, with photo and wartime entries.

• Stammkarte included, further strengthening provenance.

Collector’s Notes

• A poignant and historically significant KIA Normandy grouping tied to the elite Leibstandarte Division.

• Direct connection to the dramatic fighting and destruction of German forces in the Falaise Pocket, one of the key turning points of the Western Front in 1944.

• Rare opportunity to acquire an SS-Wehrpass with Normandy and Falaise attribution.