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Pair of original wartime photographs depicting Luftwaffe officers in conversation and during an award or inspection ceremony, taken outdoors at a forest airfield or training camp, with wooden barracks visible in the background. The officer at the center is Franz von Werra, wearing a Luftwaffe flight tunic with decorations including the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross, Pilot’s Badge, and Iron Cross First Class.

The left image captures von Werra walking and conversing informally with a fellow officer, while the right photograph shows him in formation during what appears to be a decorations or commendation event, marked by the presence of senior officers and a formal salute.

Historical Context:
Franz von Werra (1914–1941) was one of the most famous Luftwaffe fighter aces and is best known as the only German pilot to successfully escape from British captivity and return to Germany during the Second World War. His exploits became legendary, later inspiring the 1957 British film The One That Got Away. Von Werra received the Knight’s Cross for his early wartime aerial victories with Jagdgeschwader 3 “Udet”, before his capture in 1940 and eventual death in a flying accident in 1941.

Collector’s Note:
These photographs, attributed to von Werra, are historically significant private images likely taken between 1940 and early 1941, providing a rare informal look at one of the Luftwaffe’s most publicized aces. Such photographs are highly desirable for collectors focusing on Luftwaffe history, early Knight’s Cross holders, or aviation escape narratives of the Second World War.

Original postcard-size photograph depicting a Luftwaffe officer wearing the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz), seated at a table sharing a toast with a civilian companion. The officer’s uniform displays additional decorations, including the Pilot’s Badge and ribbon bar, indicating frontline flying service. The relaxed atmosphere and candid composition suggest the image was taken during a moment of rest or post-award celebration.

Historical Context:
The Knight’s Cross was one of the highest military awards of the Third Reich, recognizing exceptional bravery and leadership in combat. Luftwaffe officers who received it were often fighter aces, bomber commanders, or reconnaissance pilots distinguished by extraordinary achievement. Informal portraits like this one, taken outside the official propaganda framework, are comparatively rare, providing insight into the personal side of decorated officers away from the front.

Collector’s Note:
An excellent, high-quality wartime print of a Luftwaffe Knight’s Cross recipient in an intimate setting. While the officer’s identity remains undetermined, the sharp detail and visible decorations make this an appealing piece for collectors specializing in Luftwaffe or Knight’s Cross-related photography. The composition and expression convey a striking human moment amid wartime circumstances.

Condition: Superb contrast and clarity; light handling wear to edges.
Size: Approx. 9 × 14 cm (postcard format).

Original wartime photograph depicting an unknown decorated German Army officer posing with two women, presumably family members, on a balcony outside a residential building. The officer wears a Wehrmacht field tunic adorned with multiple decorations, prominently including the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross, as well as additional badges and ribbon bars. The relaxed setting and informal composition suggest the image was taken during home leave or recuperation.

Historical Context:
Such personal photographs were often taken during brief visits home from the front, serving as cherished mementos for soldiers and their families. While formal portraits were common, informal family images like this offer a valuable glimpse into the private side of highly decorated officers, contrasting with the official propaganda imagery of the period.

Collector’s Note:
This is an authentic period photograph showing a Knight’s Cross holder in civilian surroundings—an uncommon subject among wartime personal snapshots. Its excellent tonal range and preservation make it a noteworthy piece for collectors of Wehrmacht or Knight’s Cross-related material, illustrating the intersection between military life and family identity during the war years.

Original period photograph of Adolf Hitler, depicting a uniformed figure standing in an open staff car, waving to a crowd during a parade or public appearance. The vehicle appears to be a Mercedes-Benz 770K “Großer Mercedes”, the model commonly used by senior German officials during state events and propaganda tours. The motion blur and spontaneous composition suggest this image was captured by an onlooker or press photographer as the motorcade passed.

Collector’s Note:
This photograph is a striking candid image that captures the dynamic energy of official appearances in the 1930s–1940s. Its sharp depiction of the iconic parade car and blurred backdrop of cheering spectators convey the movement and orchestrated spectacle typical of such events. A valuable piece for historians and collectors studying the visual culture and propaganda mechanics of the period.

Set of two original wartime photographs, collector-attributed to depict Adolf Hitler visiting Luftwaffe personnel at what appears to be an air base or officers’ mess. The images show a group of uniformed Luftwaffe officers and enlisted men gathered closely indoors, listening intently as the central figure addresses them. The relaxed yet formal atmosphere suggests an inspection or morale visit typical of late-war photo documentation.

Collector’s Note:
These photographs are rare private images, showing the intimate, behind-the-scenes atmosphere of official visits rather than large-scale public rallies. The informal composition, the presence of attentive Luftwaffe officers, and the subdued setting all contribute to their documentary value. As authentic period prints, they represent visual evidence of the interplay between political symbolism and military life within the Third Reich.

Original press photograph showing Dr. Joseph Goebbels during an official inspection or ceremonial review of SA and SS troops, taken during the conference of Reich propagandists (Tagung der Reichspropagandisten) in Berlin on 23 November 1938. Goebbels is seen saluting as he passes a formation of uniformed soldiers standing at attention, accompanied by senior officers and aides.

The verso bears typed and handwritten annotations identifying the event and date, as well as official stamps from the “Deutscher Verlag Bilder-Zentrale”, the central photographic press service of the Nazi state.

Historical Context:
The photograph dates to just weeks after the Kristallnacht pogrom (9–10 November 1938), a period during which Goebbels, as Reich Minister of Propaganda, intensified his control over German media and public messaging. Events such as this propaganda conference were organized to coordinate ideological instruction among regional propaganda leaders and maintain regime unity in the wake of international condemnation of Nazi policies.

Collector’s Note:
This is an authentic Third Reich press photograph issued through official channels, complete with period stamps and handwritten description. Its excellent clarity and provenance from the Deutscher Verlag agency make it a valuable example of early National Socialist propaganda documentation. Such photos were distributed in limited quantities to state-controlled newspapers and magazines for publication.

Condition: Very good; light handling wear and minor creasing.
Size: Approx. 18 × 13 cm.
Verso Markings: “Deutscher Verlag Bilder-Zentrale” press stamps, handwritten event note “Dr. Goebbels vor der Ehrendienstigung bei der Tagung der Reichspropagandisten, 23.11.38.”

Original wartime-era photograph depicting Adolf Hitler standing outdoors in civilian attire, likely within the grounds of his Obersalzberg residence near Berchtesgaden, Bavaria. Behind him are an SS orderly in uniform and a civilian aide, typical of the small personal entourage present during informal moments at the Berghof. The architectural style of the background building, wooden fencing, and alpine slope are consistent with known Obersalzberg structures from the mid-1930s period.

• Location: Obersalzberg / Berchtesgaden

• Size: approx. 9 × 6 cm

• Condition: Excellent contrast; minimal age wear; original photo-paper with scalloped edges.

Historical Context

The Berghof, located on the Obersalzberg above Berchtesgaden, served as Adolf Hitler’s private retreat and secondary seat of power. Many informal photographs and newsreels from the era show Hitler receiving guests, walking the grounds, or engaging in casual moments with his SS staff and aides. Such private or semi-official images were often taken by Heinrich Hoffmann’s studio photographers or accompanying propaganda staff.

Collector’s Note

An authentic and uncommon original photograph showing Adolf Hitler at his mountain residence, surrounded by SS personnel and staff — a characteristic scene of the pre-war Obersalzberg period. These candid civilian-attire photos are much scarcer than formal portraits or military inspection images and represent a highly desirable addition to collections focused on Third Reich leadership, the Obersalzberg complex, or early Nazi propaganda imagery.

Original wartime photograph showing Adolf Hitler during an official event or reception, standing before a prominently decorated government or party building adorned with swastika banners and the Reichsadler emblem. Hitler is seen accompanied by senior Wehrmacht and SS officers, while his official Mercedes staff car waits in the foreground, attended by SS drivers and adjutants.

The image captures the moment of formal greeting and salute exchange, typical of high-level state or military visits in the late 1930s. Several SS officers and uniformed personnel can be seen performing the Hitler salute, emphasizing the ceremonial nature of the occasion.

• Date: ca. 1938–1939

• Location: Likely Berlin or Munich

• Size: Postcardsize

• Condition: Excellent contrast and detail; light handling wear consistent with age; finely preserved original photograph.

Historical Context

Such official receptions were a hallmark of the Nazi leadership’s public appearances, often documented by the Heinrich Hoffmann press agency for propaganda and state archives. Hitler’s personal car, identifiable by its distinct design and SS escort, was frequently photographed during these ceremonial arrivals and departures.

Collector’s Note

A rare and historically important original photograph depicting Adolf Hitler with his official car and SS escort, taken during a pre-war state or party event. Rich in period detail, this is an outstanding addition for collectors of Third Reich leadership imagery, Heinrich Hoffmann press photography, or Führer motorcade documentation.

Original wartime photograph depicting Adolf Hitler accompanied by senior Waffen-SS officers and likely Generalfeldmarschall Erich von Manstein during a frontline visit or command inspection. The group is dressed in field and leather greatcoats, with accompanying adjutants and security personnel in the background. Staff vehicles and military buildings are visible behind them.

• Date: ca. 1942–1943

• Size: approx. 9 × 6.5 cm

• Condition: Very good. Light handling wear consistent with age; strong contrast and clarity.

Historical Context

This photograph likely captures one of Hitler’s field visits to inspect front-line positions and confer with senior command staff during key Eastern Front operations. Such visits were rare and tightly controlled, often involving high-ranking Heer and Waffen-SS leaders, including commanders like von Manstein, who played a central role in the campaigns in southern Russia and the Crimea.

The presence of Waffen-SS officers alongside Hitler highlights the growing prominence of SS formations in major operations by mid-war, as well as their close coordination with army command structures.

Collector’s Note

A striking and historically important original photograph featuring Adolf Hitler in the field with senior Waffen-SS and Wehrmacht leadership—possibly including Feldmarschall Erich von Manstein. Such images, particularly from Eastern Front inspections, are rare and highly sought after by collectors of Third Reich leadership, command photography, and Hitler’s wartime visits.

An exceptional addition to any advanced collection of WWII Führerbesuche, Waffen-SS, or Eastern Front photographic material.

Original wartime German press photograph taken at the Normandy invasion front, showing German troops performing a rapid barrel change (“Rohrwechsel”) under combat conditions. The concise caption emphasizes speed and efficiency under pressure — a reflection of German propaganda focusing on discipline and technical skill during the desperate defensive battles of June 1944.

Reverse caption reads:

“An der Invasionsfront! Blitzschnell wird ein Rohrwechsel durchgeführt.”
(At the invasion front! A barrel change is carried out at lightning speed.)

• Date: 14 June 1944

• Photographer / PK Unit: Kriegsberichter Arppe (Wb)

• Caption Code: L 2892 Wb Ei

• Agency Stamp: Weltbild Presseservice, Frankfurt am Main (on reverse)

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: Excellent – intact typed caption label, minimal age wear, original wartime issue.

Historical Context

Taken in June 1944, shortly after the Allied landings in Normandy, this image documents German front-line maintenance activity amid the intense fighting following D-Day. Rapid gun barrel changes were critical to keeping artillery and anti-tank weapons operational under continuous engagement, particularly as Allied forces pushed inland.

Collector’s Note

An authentic Weltbild press photo from the Normandy invasion period, complete with its original caption. Such succinctly titled photos (“An der Invasionsfront!”) are among the most desirable Normandy press issues, representing the immediacy and tension of the front-line experience. Perfect for collectors of Wehrmacht field operations and propaganda photography.

Original wartime German press photograph showing motorized Wehrmacht supply units moving through a bombed-out Norman town to deliver much-needed ammunition and provisions to the front. Despite constant Allied air attacks and the destruction of transport routes, the caption emphasizes the continued effort to maintain the German supply chain under fire.

Reverse caption reads:

“Nachschub rollt durch die zerstörten Städte der Normandie zur Front. Die Bomben- und Tiefflieger-Angriffe der Anglo-Amerikaner, die systematisch die zur Front führenden Straßen absuchen, können es nicht verhindern, daß rechtzeitig der für unsere kämpfende Truppe notwendige Nachschub herangebracht wird. Motorisierte Verbände fahren durch die zerstörte normannische Stadt. Die Kolonne ist wegen der Fliegergefahr weit auseinandergezogen.”
(Supply rolls through the destroyed towns of Normandy to the front. The bombing and low-level attacks by the Anglo-Americans, who systematically scour the roads leading to the front, cannot prevent the timely delivery of essential supplies to our fighting troops. Motorized columns drive through the shattered Norman town, spread out due to the danger from aircraft.)

• Caption Code: 65137

• Date: 20 July 1944

• Photographer / PK Unit: Kriegsberichter Umbach, 260 PK-Aufnahme

• Agency Stamp: Heinrich Hoffmann, Presse-Illustrationen, Berlin SW68 (on reverse)

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: Excellent – full typed caption label intact, clear Hoffmann agency stamp, minor period handling traces.

Historical Context

This photograph, taken during the Normandy Campaign, documents the logistical challenges faced by the Wehrmacht amid relentless Allied air supremacy. As German forces struggled to maintain supply lines through bombed-out towns and destroyed infrastructure, propaganda images like this underscored endurance and determination in the face of defeat.

Collector’s Note

An authentic and visually evocative Heinrich Hoffmann press photo from Normandy 1944, complete with original typed caption. Excellent provenance and a striking example of late-war German propaganda photography, ideal for collectors of Wehrmacht operations and Western Front imagery.

Original wartime German press photograph showing a Werfer (rocket launcher) battery of the Wehrmacht on the Normandy front, preparing to counter an expected Allied attack. The detailed caption describes how German Nebelwerfer crews took up positions to strike at advancing enemy forces before their offensive began, while Flieger-MG (anti-aircraft machine guns) were positioned to defend the battery against Allied fighter-bombers.

Reverse caption reads:

“Bei einer Werferbatterie. In der Normandie hat sich der Feind zu neuem Angriff bereitgestellt. Eigene Werferbatterien sind in Stellung gegangen, um die feindlichen Kräfte noch vor dem Angriff zu zerschlagen. Flieger-MG werden in Stellung gebracht, um die Feuerstellung vor feindlichen Tieffliegern zu schützen.”
(At a rocket battery. In Normandy, the enemy has prepared for a new attack. Our own rocket batteries have taken up position to smash enemy forces before their assault begins. Anti-aircraft machine guns are set up to protect the launch positions from low-flying enemy aircraft.)

• Date: 22 July 1944

• Photographer / PK Unit: Kriegsberichter Scheck (Wb)

• Caption Code: L 2392 Wb EM

• Agency Stamp: Weltbild Presseservice, Frankfurt am Main (on reverse)

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: Excellent – original typed caption slip intact, light handling consistent with wartime use.

Historical Context

Taken during the Normandy Campaign, this image documents the deployment of Nebelwerfer rocket batteries, among the most feared German artillery weapons of the war. Their distinctive shrieking sound earned them the Allied nickname “Screaming Meemies.” These batteries were critical in providing heavy fire support and counter-battery fire during the desperate defensive battles of summer 1944.

Collector’s Note

A fine and authentic Weltbild press photo capturing one of the iconic weapons of the German army — the Nebelwerfer. With its complete typed caption and period agency stamp, this photograph offers excellent provenance and is ideal for collectors focused on German artillery, Normandy operations, or WWII propaganda photography.

Original wartime German press photograph showing a Luftspäher (air observer) on a Wehrmacht vehicle scanning the skies for low-flying Allied aircraft during the Normandy campaign. The caption describes how German vehicles took extra precautions against sudden air attacks from Allied fighter-bombers that dominated the skies in the summer of 1944.

Reverse caption reads:

“Beobachter auf dem Pkw. Die starke Lufttätigkeit besonders der anglo-amerikanischen Tiefflieger macht es im Invasionsraum der Normandie notwendig, daß sich unsere Fahrzeuge gegen überraschende Angriffe sichern. ‘Luftspäher’ suchen während der Fahrt den Himmel nach eventuell auftauchenden Feindflugzeugen ab, um rechtzeitig das Fahrzeug und sich selbst in Deckung bringen zu können.”
(Observers on the car. The intense air activity, especially from Anglo-American low-flying aircraft, makes it necessary in the invasion area of Normandy for our vehicles to protect themselves against surprise attacks. ‘Air spotters’ scan the sky during movement to detect enemy planes in time and take cover.)

• Caption Code: 65180

• Date: 21 July 1944

• Photographer / PK Unit: Kriegsberichter Umbach, 260 PK-Aufnahme

• Agency Stamp: Heinrich Hoffmann, Presse-Illustrationen, Berlin SW68 (on reverse)

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: Very good – original typed caption label intact, light handling and period toning consistent with age.

Historical Context

Captured during the Normandy Campaign (July 1944), this photo reflects the growing threat posed by Allied air superiority. As German ground units retreated under near-constant air attacks, “Luftspäher” were deployed on vehicles to provide early warning, a vivid reminder of the Luftwaffe’s diminishing control of the skies.

Collector’s Note

An authentic Heinrich Hoffmann press photograph from the Normandy front, combining technical and human interest. The detailed caption provides insight into German defensive adaptations against Allied air dominance. A strong and atmospheric addition to any Wehrmacht or Normandy 1944 photo collection.

Original wartime German press photograph showing a Panther tank crew resting in a makeshift dugout under their vehicle. The typed caption humorously refers to this field shelter as “Hotel Panther,” emphasizing the soldiers’ improvisation and endurance during the campaign in Normandy.

Reverse caption reads:

“‘Hotel Panther’. Unter ihrem Panther hat sich die Besatzung eine Grube ausgehoben. Bombensicher und wettergeschützt schläft die Besatzung auf ‘Vorrat’ für den Einsatz.”
(‘Hotel Panther’. Beneath their Panther, the crew has dug a pit. Bombproof and weather-protected, the crew sleeps in reserve, ready for the next mission.)

• Caption Code: 65253

• Date: 1 August 1944

• Photographer / PK Unit: Kriegsberichter Umbach, 260 PK-Aufnahme

• Agency Stamp: Heinrich Hoffmann, Presse-Illustrationen, Berlin SW68 (on reverse)

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: Very good – complete typed caption slip, clear Hoffmann agency stamp, minor handling consistent with period use.

Historical Context

Photographed in August 1944, during the Battle of Normandy, this image captures the daily realities of German Panther crews as they sought shelter from air attacks and artillery fire. The lighthearted caption “Hotel Panther” reflects wartime propaganda’s effort to portray German soldiers as resilient and resourceful even amid dire circumstances.

Collector’s Note

An appealing and atmospheric Heinrich Hoffmann press photo featuring one of the Wehrmacht’s most iconic tanks, the Panther. Original wartime images with complete captions and Hoffmann provenance are increasingly scarce and highly collectible, especially those offering insight into the human side of armored warfare.

Original wartime German press photograph showing the Sd.Kfz. 302/303 “Goliath” tracked demolition vehicle, a small but powerful remote-controlled explosive carrier used by German engineer units. The caption humorously notes its toy-like appearance while emphasizing the strength required to handle the explosive-laden machine.

Reverse caption reads:

“Goliath rollt nach vorn. Wie ein Spielzeug sieht er aus, der kleine Goliath, aber viele starke Hände müssen zugreifen, um den gewichtigen Kerl, der es ‘in sich’ hat, vom Fahrzeug abzuladen.”
(Goliath rolls forward. It looks like a toy, the little Goliath, but many strong hands are needed to unload this heavy fellow — one that’s full of power.)

• Caption Code: 65126

• Date: 19 July 1944

• Photographer / PK Unit: Kriegsberichter Schlegel-Bregenz, 260 PK-Aufnahme

• Agency Stamp: Heinrich Hoffmann, Presse-Illustrationen, Berlin SW68 (on reverse)

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: Excellent – full typed caption slip intact, period wear consistent with wartime use, clear Hoffmann agency stamp.

Historical Context

The Goliath was a small, wire-guided demolition vehicle carrying up to 100 kg of explosives, used by Pioniere (combat engineers) to destroy tanks, fortifications, or bridges. Photos like this, issued by the Heinrich Hoffmann agency, were part of German propaganda efforts to highlight technological ingenuity during the later war years, even as Germany faced heavy Allied pressure in Normandy.

Collector’s Note

Original Heinrich Hoffmann press photos of the Goliath demolition vehicle are rare and highly collectible due to the weapon’s limited operational use and iconic appearance. This example, with its humorous wartime caption and full documentation, is a particularly desirable piece for collectors of Wehrmacht technology, propaganda photography, and armored warfare history.

Original wartime German propaganda press photograph showing camouflaged ammunition supply vehicles moving through the dense forest and brush terrain of Normandy to deliver essential munitions to front-line troops fighting against the Allied invasion.

The typed caption on reverse reads:

“Munitionsnachschub für unsere kämpfende Truppe. Gut getarnt fahren unsere Munitionswagen durch das unübersichtliche Wald- und Buschgelände der Normandie nach vorn, um unseren Grenadieren die zur Abwehr der Invasion notwendige Munition zu bringen.”
(Ammunition resupply for our fighting troops. Well camouflaged, our ammunition trucks drive through the dense forest and brush terrain of Normandy to bring our grenadiers the ammunition necessary for the defense against the invasion.)

• Caption Code: 65025

• Date: 8 July 1944

• Photographer / PK Unit: Kriegsberichter Kall HH, 260 PK-Aufn.

• Agency Stamp: Heinrich Hoffmann, Presse-Illustrationen, Berlin SW68 (stamped on reverse)

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: As seen – very good for age, with minor edge wear and intact typed caption slip on reverse.

Historical Context

Taken during the Battle of Normandy (Summer 1944), this image documents the logistical efforts of German forces during the Allied invasion of France. Press photos such as this were distributed through the Heinrich Hoffmann agency, the primary outlet for official Wehrmacht and propaganda imagery, making this an authentic example of wartime German photojournalism.

Collector’s Note

Original Heinrich Hoffmann press photos from the Normandy campaign are increasingly scarce. This image, with its complete typed caption slip and clear agency stamp, offers excellent provenance and represents a striking piece of WWII frontline documentation. Ideal for collectors of Wehrmacht, Western Front, and propaganda photography.

Set of 2 Reference Books by LTC John R. Angolia – “For Führer and Fatherland”

(Political & Civil Awards of the Third Reich & Military Awards of the Third Reich)

An excellent set of two classic reference works by the well-known militaria author LTC John R. Angolia. These books are considered essential for collectors and historians of German awards and decorations.

Included in the set:

1. For Führer and Fatherland – Political & Civil Awards of the Third Reich

   • Covers the full spectrum of non-military awards of the Third Reich, including political, civil, and organizational decorations. Richly illustrated with period photographs and detailed close-ups.

2. For Führer and Fatherland – Military Awards of the Third Reich

   • A comprehensive study of Wehrmacht and Waffen-SS decorations, campaign medals, and combat awards. Packed with detailed descriptions and photographic documentation, making it one of the standard reference works in the field.

Key Details

• Author: LTC John R. Angolia

• Period Covered: Third Reich (1933–1945)

• Content: Hundreds of pages of detailed research, photographs, award documents, and period context.

• Condition: Both volumes in overall good condition with typical signs of age and wear

Collector’s Note

These two companion volumes are highly sought after by collectors of Third Reich militaria and awards. Together they cover the complete range of German decorations — both military and political/civil — making them an invaluable reference set.

Sold here as a complete 2-volume set – a must-have addition to any serious militaria library.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Othmar Hermes

Leutnant Othmar Hermes (25 November 1925 – 12 January 2014) was a decorated front-line soldier of the Wehrmacht who distinguished himself during the heavy fighting on the Eastern Front.

Awards and Decorations

• Iron Cross 2nd Class (Eisernes Kreuz II. Klasse)

• Iron Cross 1st Class (Eisernes Kreuz I. Klasse)

• Infantry Assault Badge (Infanterie-Sturmabzeichen)

• Wound Badge (Verwundetenabzeichen)

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 11 June 1944 as Gefreiter und Kompaniemelder, 6. Kompanie / Grenadier-Regiment 464, 253. Infanterie-Division

Career Highlights

• Eastern Front Service: Fought with Grenadier-Regiment 464 during the bitter defensive battles against the advancing Red Army.

• Knight’s Cross Action: Recognized for his extraordinary bravery as a company runner (Kompaniemelder). Despite being only a Gefreiter, Hermes showed decisive courage under fire, contributing directly to the survival and fighting capacity of his unit.

• Postwar Career: Rose to the rank of Leutnant der Reserve and lived a long postwar life, passing away in 2014.

Item Details

• Type: Original postwar signed photograph

• Size: Postcard format

• Condition: As seen – good condition, clear autograph

Collector’s Note

Hermes stands out as one of the youngest Knight’s Cross recipients of the Wehrmacht, having earned the high award as just a Gefreiter at age 18. His autograph is sought after for its rarity and for the remarkable circumstances of his Ritterkreuz award.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Othmar Hermes

Leutnant Othmar Hermes (25 November 1925 – 12 January 2014) was a decorated front-line soldier of the Wehrmacht who distinguished himself during the heavy fighting on the Eastern Front.

Awards and Decorations

• Iron Cross 2nd Class (Eisernes Kreuz II. Klasse)

• Iron Cross 1st Class (Eisernes Kreuz I. Klasse)

• Infantry Assault Badge (Infanterie-Sturmabzeichen)

• Wound Badge (Verwundetenabzeichen)

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 11 June 1944 as Gefreiter und Kompaniemelder, 6. Kompanie / Grenadier-Regiment 464, 253. Infanterie-Division

Career Highlights

• Eastern Front Service: Fought with Grenadier-Regiment 464 during the bitter defensive battles against the advancing Red Army.

• Knight’s Cross Action: Recognized for his extraordinary bravery as a company runner (Kompaniemelder). Despite being only a Gefreiter, Hermes showed decisive courage under fire, contributing directly to the survival and fighting capacity of his unit.

• Postwar Career: Rose to the rank of Leutnant der Reserve and lived a long postwar life, passing away in 2014.

Item Details

• Type: Original postwar signed photograph

• Size: Postcard format

• Condition: As seen – good condition, clear autograph

Collector’s Note

Hermes stands out as one of the youngest Knight’s Cross recipients of the Wehrmacht, having earned the high award as just a Gefreiter at age 18. His autograph is sought after for its rarity and for the remarkable circumstances of his Ritterkreuz award.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Reinhard Hardegen

Korvettenkapitän Reinhard Hardegen (18 March 1913 – 9 June 2018) was one of the most well-known U-boat commanders of the Second World War. As commander of U-123, he led highly successful patrols during Operation Drumbeat (Paukenschlag) off the American East Coast, becoming a prominent figure in the Battle of the Atlantic.

Awards and Decorations

• Iron Cross 2nd Class (Eisernes Kreuz II. Klasse)

• Iron Cross 1st Class (Eisernes Kreuz I. Klasse)

• U-boat War Badge (U-Boots-Kriegsabzeichen)

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 23 January 1942 as Kapitänleutnant und Kommandant of U-123

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub) – 23 April 1942 as Kapitänleutnant und Kommandant of U-123

Career Highlights

• U-boat Commander: Commanded U-123 during the early successes of the Atlantic campaign.

• Operation Drumbeat: Led patrols along the American coast in 1942, sinking numerous merchant vessels and bringing the war directly to US waters.

• Confirmed Successes: Credited with sinking 25 ships, a total tonnage exceeding 136,000 GRT.

• Postwar Life: Survived captivity, later becoming a businessman and politician in Bremen. He lived to the remarkable age of 105, making him one of the last surviving U-boat aces.

Item Details

• Type: Original postwar signed photograph

• Size: Postcard format

• Condition: As seen – clear, bold signature

Collector’s Note

Reinhard Hardegen is one of the best-documented and longest-living Ritterkreuzträger of the U-Bootwaffe. His postwar reflections on the morality and tragedy of the U-boat war, combined with his unique longevity, make his autograph especially desirable. This piece offers both a tangible connection to the Atlantic U-boat campaign and to one of its most famous commanders.