Walter Fasel – Füsilier-Regiment 26 (30. Infanterie-Division)
€15,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Walter Fasel. Feldwebel Walter Fasel (7 June 1919 – 13 August 2013) was a decorated non-commissioned officer of the Wehrmacht during the Second World War. He earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 31 August 1943 as Feldwebel und Zugführer of the 14. Kompanie / Füsilier-Regiment 26, part of the 30. Infanterie-Division.
Career Highlights:
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Served on the Eastern Front with the 30. Infanterie-Division, which fought in some of the toughest defensive battles of the war.
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As a platoon leader, Fasel distinguished himself during the fighting in 1943, showing exceptional leadership and bravery under extreme conditions.
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His award of the Knight’s Cross recognized his decisive role in holding critical positions against Soviet attacks.
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Survived the war and lived to the age of 94, passing away in 2013.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph with original signature.
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Size: Postcard size.
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Signature: Clear postwar autograph of Ritterkreuzträger Walter Fasel.
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Condition: Good; well-preserved signature and image.
Collector’s Note:
Walter Fasel represents the decorated frontline NCOs whose leadership often proved decisive in small-unit combat on the Eastern Front. His Knight’s Cross award as a platoon leader reflects both the ferocity of the fighting in 1943 and the importance of junior leaders in the Wehrmacht’s defensive operations. Autographs of such decorated Feldwebel-rank soldiers remain particularly attractive to collectors.
Walter Fasel – Füsilier-Regiment 26 (30. Infanterie-Division)
€15,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Walter Fasel. Feldwebel Walter Fasel (7 June 1919 – 13 August 2013) was a decorated non-commissioned officer of the Wehrmacht during the Second World War. He earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 31 August 1943 as Feldwebel und Zugführer of the 14. Kompanie / Füsilier-Regiment 26, part of the 30. Infanterie-Division.
Career Highlights:
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Served on the Eastern Front with the 30. Infanterie-Division, which fought in some of the toughest defensive battles of the war.
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As a platoon leader, Fasel distinguished himself during the fighting in 1943, showing exceptional leadership and bravery under extreme conditions.
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His award of the Knight’s Cross recognized his decisive role in holding critical positions against Soviet attacks.
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Survived the war and lived to the age of 94, passing away in 2013.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph with original signature.
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Size: Postcard size.
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Signature: Clear postwar autograph of Ritterkreuzträger Walter Fasel.
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Condition: Good; well-preserved signature and image.
Collector’s Note:
Walter Fasel represents the decorated frontline NCOs whose leadership often proved decisive in small-unit combat on the Eastern Front. His Knight’s Cross award as a platoon leader reflects both the ferocity of the fighting in 1943 and the importance of junior leaders in the Wehrmacht’s defensive operations. Autographs of such decorated Feldwebel-rank soldiers remain particularly attractive to collectors.
Johannes Eikmeier – Reiter-Regiment 32 (3. Kavallerie-Brigade)
€15,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Johannes “Hans” Eikmeier. Major Johannes “Hans” Eikmeier (3 December 1918 – 5 September 2012) was a decorated officer of the Wehrmacht during the Second World War who rose to the rank of Major.
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Deutsches Kreuz in Gold – 25 January 1943, as Oberleutnant in Aufklärungs-Abteilung 120.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 30 September 1944, as Rittmeister und Führer of II./ Reiter-Regiment 32, 3. Kavallerie-Brigade.
Career Highlights:
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Served as a reconnaissance officer and later cavalry commander during the Eastern Front campaigns.
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Distinguished himself in reconnaissance and combat operations with Aufklärungs-Abteilung 120, earning the German Cross in Gold in early 1943.
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Awarded the Knight’s Cross in late 1944 for his leadership and bravery commanding II./ Reiter-Regiment 32 during the heavy fighting on the Eastern Front.
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Survived the war and lived a long postwar life, passing away in 2012 at the age of 93.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photocopy with original signature.
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Size: Postcard size.
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Signature: Authentic postwar autograph of Johannes “Hans” Eikmeier.
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Condition: Good; clear and well-preserved signature on photocopy photo.
Collector’s Note:
Although signed on a photocopy rather than an original wartime photograph, this piece remains a desirable signature of a Ritterkreuzträger who served in both reconnaissance and cavalry formations. Eikmeier’s long life makes his autograph obtainable, yet his dual awards — Deutsches Kreuz in Gold and Ritterkreuz — ensure continued collector interest.
Johannes Eikmeier – Reiter-Regiment 32 (3. Kavallerie-Brigade)
€15,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Johannes “Hans” Eikmeier. Major Johannes “Hans” Eikmeier (3 December 1918 – 5 September 2012) was a decorated officer of the Wehrmacht during the Second World War who rose to the rank of Major.
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Deutsches Kreuz in Gold – 25 January 1943, as Oberleutnant in Aufklärungs-Abteilung 120.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 30 September 1944, as Rittmeister und Führer of II./ Reiter-Regiment 32, 3. Kavallerie-Brigade.
Career Highlights:
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Served as a reconnaissance officer and later cavalry commander during the Eastern Front campaigns.
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Distinguished himself in reconnaissance and combat operations with Aufklärungs-Abteilung 120, earning the German Cross in Gold in early 1943.
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Awarded the Knight’s Cross in late 1944 for his leadership and bravery commanding II./ Reiter-Regiment 32 during the heavy fighting on the Eastern Front.
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Survived the war and lived a long postwar life, passing away in 2012 at the age of 93.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photocopy with original signature.
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Size: Postcard size.
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Signature: Authentic postwar autograph of Johannes “Hans” Eikmeier.
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Condition: Good; clear and well-preserved signature on photocopy photo.
Collector’s Note:
Although signed on a photocopy rather than an original wartime photograph, this piece remains a desirable signature of a Ritterkreuzträger who served in both reconnaissance and cavalry formations. Eikmeier’s long life makes his autograph obtainable, yet his dual awards — Deutsches Kreuz in Gold and Ritterkreuz — ensure continued collector interest.
Alfred Eick – Kommandant of “U-510”
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Eick. Kapitänleutnant Alfred Eick (9 March 1916 – 12 April 2015) was a decorated U-boat commander in the Kriegsmarine during the Second World War.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 31 March 1944, as Oberleutnant zur See und Kommandant of U-510.
Career Highlights:
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U-Boat Service: Took command of U-510, a Type IXC/40 long-range submarine, in 1943.
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Successful Patrols: Conducted multiple extended patrols in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, sinking and damaging a number of Allied merchant vessels.
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Knight’s Cross: Awarded for his leadership and successes at sea, particularly for his aggressive operations during 1943–44.
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Postwar Life: Survived the conflict and went on to live until 2015, making him one of the last surviving Ritterkreuz U-boat commanders.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear, authentic postwar autograph of Alfred Eick.
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Condition: Very good; crisp image with well-preserved signature.
Collector’s Note:
Alfred Eick’s career with U-510 places him among the recognized commanders of Germany’s U-boat arm. Surviving into the 21st century, his signature is both scarce and desirable, especially tied to his Knight’s Cross award as a U-boat commander.
Alfred Eick – Kommandant of “U-510”
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Eick. Kapitänleutnant Alfred Eick (9 March 1916 – 12 April 2015) was a decorated U-boat commander in the Kriegsmarine during the Second World War.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 31 March 1944, as Oberleutnant zur See und Kommandant of U-510.
Career Highlights:
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U-Boat Service: Took command of U-510, a Type IXC/40 long-range submarine, in 1943.
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Successful Patrols: Conducted multiple extended patrols in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, sinking and damaging a number of Allied merchant vessels.
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Knight’s Cross: Awarded for his leadership and successes at sea, particularly for his aggressive operations during 1943–44.
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Postwar Life: Survived the conflict and went on to live until 2015, making him one of the last surviving Ritterkreuz U-boat commanders.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear, authentic postwar autograph of Alfred Eick.
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Condition: Very good; crisp image with well-preserved signature.
Collector’s Note:
Alfred Eick’s career with U-510 places him among the recognized commanders of Germany’s U-boat arm. Surviving into the 21st century, his signature is both scarce and desirable, especially tied to his Knight’s Cross award as a U-boat commander.
Alfred Eick – Kommandant of “U-510”
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Eick. Kapitänleutnant Alfred Eick (9 March 1916 – 12 April 2015) was a decorated U-boat commander in the Kriegsmarine during the Second World War.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 31 March 1944, as Oberleutnant zur See und Kommandant of U-510.
Career Highlights:
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U-Boat Service: Took command of U-510, a Type IXC/40 long-range submarine, in 1943.
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Successful Patrols: Conducted multiple extended patrols in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, sinking and damaging a number of Allied merchant vessels.
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Knight’s Cross: Awarded for his leadership and successes at sea, particularly for his aggressive operations during 1943–44.
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Postwar Life: Survived the conflict and went on to live until 2015, making him one of the last surviving Ritterkreuz U-boat commanders.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear, authentic postwar autograph of Alfred Eick.
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Condition: Very good; crisp image with well-preserved signature.
Collector’s Note:
Alfred Eick’s career with U-510 places him among the recognized commanders of Germany’s U-boat arm. Surviving into the 21st century, his signature is both scarce and desirable, especially tied to his Knight’s Cross award as a U-boat commander.
Alfred Eick – Kommandant of “U-510”
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Eick. Kapitänleutnant Alfred Eick (9 March 1916 – 12 April 2015) was a decorated U-boat commander in the Kriegsmarine during the Second World War.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 31 March 1944, as Oberleutnant zur See und Kommandant of U-510.
Career Highlights:
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U-Boat Service: Took command of U-510, a Type IXC/40 long-range submarine, in 1943.
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Successful Patrols: Conducted multiple extended patrols in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, sinking and damaging a number of Allied merchant vessels.
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Knight’s Cross: Awarded for his leadership and successes at sea, particularly for his aggressive operations during 1943–44.
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Postwar Life: Survived the conflict and went on to live until 2015, making him one of the last surviving Ritterkreuz U-boat commanders.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear, authentic postwar autograph of Alfred Eick.
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Condition: Very good; crisp image with well-preserved signature.
Collector’s Note:
Alfred Eick’s career with U-510 places him among the recognized commanders of Germany’s U-boat arm. Surviving into the 21st century, his signature is both scarce and desirable, especially tied to his Knight’s Cross award as a U-boat commander.
Alfred Eick – Kommandant of “U-510”
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Eick. Kapitänleutnant Alfred Eick (9 March 1916 – 12 April 2015) was a decorated U-boat commander in the Kriegsmarine during the Second World War.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 31 March 1944, as Oberleutnant zur See und Kommandant of U-510.
Career Highlights:
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U-Boat Service: Took command of U-510, a Type IXC/40 long-range submarine, in 1943.
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Successful Patrols: Conducted multiple extended patrols in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, sinking and damaging a number of Allied merchant vessels.
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Knight’s Cross: Awarded for his leadership and successes at sea, particularly for his aggressive operations during 1943–44.
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Postwar Life: Survived the conflict and went on to live until 2015, making him one of the last surviving Ritterkreuz U-boat commanders.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear, authentic postwar autograph of Alfred Eick.
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Condition: Very good; crisp image with well-preserved signature.
Collector’s Note:
Alfred Eick’s career with U-510 places him among the recognized commanders of Germany’s U-boat arm. Surviving into the 21st century, his signature is both scarce and desirable, especially tied to his Knight’s Cross award as a U-boat commander.
Alfred Eick – Kommandant of “U-510”
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Eick. Kapitänleutnant Alfred Eick (9 March 1916 – 12 April 2015) was a decorated U-boat commander in the Kriegsmarine during the Second World War.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 31 March 1944, as Oberleutnant zur See und Kommandant of U-510.
Career Highlights:
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U-Boat Service: Took command of U-510, a Type IXC/40 long-range submarine, in 1943.
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Successful Patrols: Conducted multiple extended patrols in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, sinking and damaging a number of Allied merchant vessels.
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Knight’s Cross: Awarded for his leadership and successes at sea, particularly for his aggressive operations during 1943–44.
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Postwar Life: Survived the conflict and went on to live until 2015, making him one of the last surviving Ritterkreuz U-boat commanders.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear, authentic postwar autograph of Alfred Eick.
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Condition: Very good; crisp image with well-preserved signature.
Collector’s Note:
Alfred Eick’s career with U-510 places him among the recognized commanders of Germany’s U-boat arm. Surviving into the 21st century, his signature is both scarce and desirable, especially tied to his Knight’s Cross award as a U-boat commander.
Alfred Eick – Kommandant of “U-510”
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Eick. Kapitänleutnant Alfred Eick (9 March 1916 – 12 April 2015) was a decorated U-boat commander in the Kriegsmarine during the Second World War.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 31 March 1944, as Oberleutnant zur See und Kommandant of U-510.
Career Highlights:
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U-Boat Service: Took command of U-510, a Type IXC/40 long-range submarine, in 1943.
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Successful Patrols: Conducted multiple extended patrols in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, sinking and damaging a number of Allied merchant vessels.
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Knight’s Cross: Awarded for his leadership and successes at sea, particularly for his aggressive operations during 1943–44.
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Postwar Life: Survived the conflict and went on to live until 2015, making him one of the last surviving Ritterkreuz U-boat commanders.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear, authentic postwar autograph of Alfred Eick.
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Condition: Very good; crisp image with well-preserved signature.
Collector’s Note:
Alfred Eick’s career with U-510 places him among the recognized commanders of Germany’s U-boat arm. Surviving into the 21st century, his signature is both scarce and desirable, especially tied to his Knight’s Cross award as a U-boat commander.
Alfred Eick – Kommandant of “U-510”
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Eick. Kapitänleutnant Alfred Eick (9 March 1916 – 12 April 2015) was a decorated U-boat commander in the Kriegsmarine during the Second World War.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 31 March 1944, as Oberleutnant zur See und Kommandant of U-510.
Career Highlights:
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U-Boat Service: Took command of U-510, a Type IXC/40 long-range submarine, in 1943.
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Successful Patrols: Conducted multiple extended patrols in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, sinking and damaging a number of Allied merchant vessels.
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Knight’s Cross: Awarded for his leadership and successes at sea, particularly for his aggressive operations during 1943–44.
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Postwar Life: Survived the conflict and went on to live until 2015, making him one of the last surviving Ritterkreuz U-boat commanders.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear, authentic postwar autograph of Alfred Eick.
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Condition: Very good; crisp image with well-preserved signature.
Collector’s Note:
Alfred Eick’s career with U-510 places him among the recognized commanders of Germany’s U-boat arm. Surviving into the 21st century, his signature is both scarce and desirable, especially tied to his Knight’s Cross award as a U-boat commander.
Alfred Eick – Kommandant of “U-510”
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Eick. Kapitänleutnant Alfred Eick (9 March 1916 – 12 April 2015) was a decorated U-boat commander in the Kriegsmarine during the Second World War.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 31 March 1944, as Oberleutnant zur See und Kommandant of U-510.
Career Highlights:
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U-Boat Service: Took command of U-510, a Type IXC/40 long-range submarine, in 1943.
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Successful Patrols: Conducted multiple extended patrols in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, sinking and damaging a number of Allied merchant vessels.
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Knight’s Cross: Awarded for his leadership and successes at sea, particularly for his aggressive operations during 1943–44.
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Postwar Life: Survived the conflict and went on to live until 2015, making him one of the last surviving Ritterkreuz U-boat commanders.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear, authentic postwar autograph of Alfred Eick.
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Condition: Very good; crisp image with well-preserved signature.
Collector’s Note:
Alfred Eick’s career with U-510 places him among the recognized commanders of Germany’s U-boat arm. Surviving into the 21st century, his signature is both scarce and desirable, especially tied to his Knight’s Cross award as a U-boat commander.
Alfred Eick – Kommandant of “U-510”
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Eick. Kapitänleutnant Alfred Eick (9 March 1916 – 12 April 2015) was a decorated U-boat commander in the Kriegsmarine during the Second World War.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 31 March 1944, as Oberleutnant zur See und Kommandant of U-510.
Career Highlights:
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U-Boat Service: Took command of U-510, a Type IXC/40 long-range submarine, in 1943.
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Successful Patrols: Conducted multiple extended patrols in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, sinking and damaging a number of Allied merchant vessels.
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Knight’s Cross: Awarded for his leadership and successes at sea, particularly for his aggressive operations during 1943–44.
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Postwar Life: Survived the conflict and went on to live until 2015, making him one of the last surviving Ritterkreuz U-boat commanders.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear, authentic postwar autograph of Alfred Eick.
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Condition: Very good; crisp image with well-preserved signature.
Collector’s Note:
Alfred Eick’s career with U-510 places him among the recognized commanders of Germany’s U-boat arm. Surviving into the 21st century, his signature is both scarce and desirable, especially tied to his Knight’s Cross award as a U-boat commander.
Alfred Eick – Kommandant of “U-510”
€30,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Eick. Kapitänleutnant Alfred Eick (9 March 1916 – 12 April 2015) was a decorated U-boat commander in the Kriegsmarine during the Second World War.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 31 March 1944, as Oberleutnant zur See und Kommandant of U-510.
Career Highlights:
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U-Boat Service: Took command of U-510, a Type IXC/40 long-range submarine, in 1943.
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Successful Patrols: Conducted multiple extended patrols in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, sinking and damaging a number of Allied merchant vessels.
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Knight’s Cross: Awarded for his leadership and successes at sea, particularly for his aggressive operations during 1943–44.
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Postwar Life: Survived the conflict and went on to live until 2015, making him one of the last surviving Ritterkreuz U-boat commanders.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear, authentic postwar autograph of Alfred Eick.
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Condition: Very good; crisp image with well-preserved signature.
Collector’s Note:
Alfred Eick’s career with U-510 places him among the recognized commanders of Germany’s U-boat arm. Surviving into the 21st century, his signature is both scarce and desirable, especially tied to his Knight’s Cross award as a U-boat commander.
Werner Ebeling – Grenadier-Regiment 154 & 220 (Eichenlaub)
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Werner Ebeling. Oberst Werner Ebeling (11 November 1907 † 16 December 2001) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Oberst during the Second World War. A highly decorated front-line commander of the 58. Infanterie-Division, he received the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves for his leadership in some of the fiercest battles on the Eastern Front.
Awards and Decorations:
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German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 11 March 1943, as Oberleutnant with Grenadier-Regiment 220.
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Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 9 April 1944, as Major and Kommandeur of II./Grenadier-Regiment 220, 58. Infanterie-Division.
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Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, 799th award) – 5 March 1945, as Oberstleutnant and Kommandeur of Grenadier-Regiment 154, 58. Infanterie-Division.
Career Highlights:
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Served throughout the war in infantry leadership roles, primarily with the 58. Infanterie-Division.
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Earned the German Cross in Gold in 1943 for his distinguished service in combat as a company-grade officer.
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Awarded the Knight’s Cross in April 1944 for outstanding leadership of his battalion during hard-fought engagements on the Eastern Front.
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Received the Oak Leaves in March 1945 as a regimental commander, recognized for his division’s stubborn resistance during the late-war battles against overwhelming Soviet forces.
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Survived the war and lived until 2001, reaching the age of 94.
Item Details:
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Authentic postwar signature of Oberst Werner Ebeling.
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Signed on a postwar photograph.
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Condition: Excellent, with a clear and bold autograph.
Collector’s Note:
Ebeling’s combination of the German Cross in Gold, Knight’s Cross, and Oak Leaves makes his autograph especially attractive for Eastern Front collectors. His long career within the 58. Infanterie-Division gives his grouping of awards and service a strong cohesion and significance.
Paul Egger – schwere SS-Panzer-Abteilung 502
€45,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Paul Egger. SS-Obersturmführer Paul Egger (26 November 1916 – 12 July 2007) was a decorated Waffen-SS panzer officer and late-war tank ace credited with 113 confirmed tank kills.
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Deutsches Kreuz in Gold – 30 December 1944, as Zugführer in schwere SS-Panzer-Abteilung 502.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 28 April 1945, as SS-Obersturmführer und Kompaniechef of 1./schwere SS-Panzer-Abteilung 502.
Career Highlights:
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Early Service: Joined the Waffen-SS in 1941, assigned to SS-Panzer-Regiment 2 “Das Reich” as a tank commander.
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Normandy Battles: Fought with schwere SS-Panzer-Abteilung 102 during the Battle of Normandy, where the unit was almost completely destroyed.
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Eastern Front Actions: Reformed as schwere SS-Panzer-Abteilung 502, Egger took part in the brutal defensive battles around Stettin in 1945.
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Tank Ace: Credited with 113 destroyed enemy tanks, making him one of the more successful SS panzer commanders of the late war period.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Authentic postwar autograph of SS-Obersturmführer Paul Egger.
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Condition: Very good, clean and well-preserved.
Collector’s Note:
Paul Egger’s significance lies in his service with both Das Reich and the schwere SS-Panzer-Abteilungen, two of the most well-known Waffen-SS armored units. His high kill record and late-war Knight’s Cross award make his autograph particularly sought after. This example represents a scarce and desirable set for collectors of panzer aces and Waffen-SS memorabilia.
Hermann Eckardt – Panzer-Abteilung 8
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Hermann Eckardt. Feldwebel Hermann Eckardt (04 October 1920 – 16 September 2010) was a highly decorated German Army NCO who distinguished himself as a front-line panzer and anti-tank commander during the final years of the Second World War.
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Deutsches Kreuz in Gold – 12 September 1944, as member of 1./Panzer-Abteilung 8.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 28 March 1945, as Feldwebel und Zugführer of 1./Panzerjäger-Abteilung 8, 20. Panzergrenadier-Division.
Background:
Eckardt fought throughout the later campaigns on the Eastern Front. His award of the Knight’s Cross came in recognition of his outstanding leadership and personal bravery as Zugführer, where he directed numerous successful anti-tank actions against overwhelming Soviet forces during the desperate defensive battles of early 1945.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear original postwar autograph of Feldwebel Hermann Eckardt.
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Condition: Very good, well-preserved.
Collector’s Note:
Eckardt belongs to the relatively small group of late-war NCO Knight’s Cross holders from Panzerjäger units, making his signature particularly scarce and desirable for collectors of Panzer and Eastern Front memorabilia.
Hermann Eckardt – Panzer-Abteilung 8
€20,00Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Hermann Eckardt. Feldwebel Hermann Eckardt (04 October 1920 – 16 September 2010) was a highly decorated German Army NCO who distinguished himself as a front-line panzer and anti-tank commander during the final years of the Second World War.
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Deutsches Kreuz in Gold – 12 September 1944, as member of 1./Panzer-Abteilung 8.
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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 28 March 1945, as Feldwebel und Zugführer of 1./Panzerjäger-Abteilung 8, 20. Panzergrenadier-Division.
Background:
Eckardt fought throughout the later campaigns on the Eastern Front. His award of the Knight’s Cross came in recognition of his outstanding leadership and personal bravery as Zugführer, where he directed numerous successful anti-tank actions against overwhelming Soviet forces during the desperate defensive battles of early 1945.
Item Details:
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Format: Postwar photograph, postcard size.
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Signature: Clear original postwar autograph of Feldwebel Hermann Eckardt.
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Condition: Very good, well-preserved.
Collector’s Note:
Eckardt belongs to the relatively small group of late-war NCO Knight’s Cross holders from Panzerjäger units, making his signature particularly scarce and desirable for collectors of Panzer and Eastern Front memorabilia.
Soldbuch & Award Doc: Panzer-Regiment 3 (Normandy!)
€0,01Original Soldbuch and Award Document – Obergefreiter Max Pemmer (3./Panzer-Regiment 3, 2. Panzer-Division)
A historically significant grouping consisting of the Soldbuch (with photograph, denazified) and the award document for the Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern, issued to Obergefreiter Max Pemmer, who served with the 3. Kompanie / Panzer-Regiment 3 of the elite 2. Panzer-Division during the Battle of Normandy.
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Award: Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern (War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords), awarded 1 September 1944, signed at the divisional level.
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Unit Service: Panzer-Regiment 3, one of the division’s armored spearheads, equipped with Panther tanks during the Normandy campaign.
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Historical Note: Pemmer is notably mentioned in the memoirs of a Panther crewmember from 3./Panzer-Regiment 3, who recalls seeing him after the Falaise Pocket in a field hospital, identifying him as the Sprittfahrer (fuel driver).
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Documents:
– Complete Soldbuch with photograph (denazified).
– Original award document. -
Condition: Both Soldbuch and Urkunde show clear signs of frontline wear, with water damage, creases, and tears, adding to their authenticity and “been there” look.
Background – 2. Panzer-Division in Normandy
The 2. Panzer-Division was deployed to France in 1944 as part of the German armored reserve. It was heavily engaged following the Allied landings in June, taking part in the Mortain counterattack (Operation Lüttich) in August, where German forces attempted to cut off the U.S. advance. After failing to break through, the division became trapped in the Falaise Pocket, where it suffered devastating losses. Survivors like Pemmer managed to escape westward, often through desperate rearguard actions, and regrouped in Germany later in 1944.
Collector’s Note:
A rare and researchable grouping directly tied to the 2. Panzer-Division’s combat in Normandy, including mention in veteran memoirs that confirm Pemmer’s frontline role. Groupings to named soldiers who survived the destruction of the Falaise Pocket are particularly desirable.
TOP Normandy Award Doc Set – Feldwebel in Panzergrenadier-Regiment 304 (!)
€0,01A rare and complete grouping of frontline award documents to Feldwebel Wilhelm Fahrmann, who served in the 3rd Company of Panzer-Grenadier-Regiment 304 (2. Panzer-Division) during the Normandy campaign, 1944.
Contents:
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Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class) – Awarded 14 September 1944, signed by Oberst von Nostitz-Wallwitz.
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Nahkampfspange I. Stufe (Close Combat Clasp in Bronze – 15 days) – Awarded 18 September 1944, signed by Major Bernhard von Schklepp.
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Panzerkampfabzeichen in Bronze (Panzer Assault Badge in Bronze) – Awarded 18 September 1944, also signed by Major Bernhard von Schklepp.
Historical Context:
The 2. Panzer-Division was heavily engaged in the bitter fighting in Normandy following the Allied landings in June 1944, suffering severe losses during the retreat through France. The dates of these awards — September 1944 — coincide with the desperate defensive battles fought during the withdrawal across France toward the German frontier. The awards were earned for actions during the Normandy fighting period.
Receiving both the Close Combat Clasp (15 days) and the Panzer Assault Badge in such a short timeframe highlights Feldwebel Fahrmann’s direct involvement in some of the most intense fighting, as well as his personal frontline leadership.
Significance:
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Rare combination of three frontline awards, all documented and awarded within four days.
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Signed by notable officers, including Oberst von Nostitz-Wallwitz, a divisional commander.
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Strong Normandy connection,
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Excellent centerpiece for any 2. Panzer-Division, Normandy campaign, or combat awards collection.
Leni Riefenstahl – “Triumph of the Will”
€70,00A scarce original postwar signed photograph of Leni Riefenstahl (22 August 1902 – 8 September 2003), the German filmmaker, actress, and photographer. Postcard size. Condition as seen.
Biographical Note:
Riefenstahl is best known for directing Triumph des Willens (Triumph of the Will, 1935), the infamous propaganda film glorifying Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party. Though her association with the Third Reich permanently tainted her legacy, her technical innovations in documentary filmmaking, camera movement, and visual composition were highly influential in the evolution of cinema.
Collector’s Note:
Authentic postwar signatures of Riefenstahl remain sought after due to her controversial role in film history and her undeniable impact on cinematography.
Verwundetenabzeichen Schwarz Award Doc: Infanterie-Regiment 257 (83. Infanterie-Division)
€50,00An authentic wartime award document issued to Gefreiter Reuter, serving with the 12. Kompanie, Infanterie-Regiment 257 of the 83. Infanterie-Division.
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Award: Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz (Wound Badge in Black)
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Date of Wound: 29 January 1942
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Unit: 12./Infanterie-Regiment 257, 83. Infanterie-Division
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Condition: Folded in the past, otherwise well-preserved, as seen
Historical Context
The 83. Infanterie-Division was raised in December 1939 and initially deployed in the Western Campaign of 1940 before being transferred to the Eastern Front in 1941. During the harsh winter fighting of 1941/42, the division held positions under constant Soviet pressure, where heavy casualties were sustained.
Gefreiter Reuter’s wounding on 29 January 1942 places him at the height of these brutal battles, where frostbite, artillery barrages, and infantry assaults took a devastating toll on German divisions.
The Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz was awarded for the first wound sustained in combat, marking Reuter’s sacrifice in one of the most grueling phases of the war.
Collector’s Note
A historically significant award document, directly tied to the 83. Infanterie-Division’s winter campaign on the Eastern Front. Its specific dating and unit assignment give it strong research and collector potential.
Sturmabzeichen Award Doc: Aufklärungs-Abteilung 100 (100. Jäger-Division)
€80,00An authentic wartime award document issued to Gefreiter Frescher, serving with the 1. Kompanie, Aufklärungs-Abteilung 100 of the elite 100. Jäger-Division.
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Award: Allgemeines Sturmabzeichen (General Assault Badge)
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Unit: 1./Aufklärungs-Abteilung 100, 100. Jäger-Division
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Signed by: Major Gustav Grunhagen, recipient of the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold (DKiG)
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Condition: Folded in the past, otherwise well-preserved, as seen
Historical Context
The 100. Jäger-Division was created in December 1940 from elements of the 100. leichte Infanterie-Division. Specialized in difficult terrain warfare, the division fought in Ukraine, at Stalingrad, and later in Italy. Its Aufklärungs-Abteilung 100 (Reconnaissance Battalion) played a crucial role in gathering intelligence and spearheading assaults.
The Allgemeines Sturmabzeichen was awarded to troops who participated in three or more infantry assaults, counter-attacks, or close combat actions, recognizing the frontline service of soldiers such as Gefreiter Frescher.
Collector’s Note
A fine and historically significant award document, linked to the battle-hardened 100. Jäger-Division. The signature of Major Gustav Grunhagen (DKiG) adds strong collector interest.
Sturmabzeichen Award Doc: Pionier-Kompanie 714 (714. Infanterie-Division)
€75,00An authentic wartime award document issued to Gefreiter Karcher, who served with Pionierkompanie 714 of the 714. Infanterie-Division (later re-designated as the 114. Jäger-Division).
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Award: Allgemeines Sturmabzeichen (General Assault Badge)
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Reason: For active participation in 3 infantry assaults
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Signed by: Generalmajor Friedrich Stahl (Divisional Commander)
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Condition: Document was folded in the past; overall condition as seen
Historical Context
The 714. Infanterie-Division was formed in 1941 and deployed primarily in the Balkans, where it took part in anti-partisan operations. In 1943, it was reorganized and renamed the 114. Jäger-Division, continuing service in Italy.
The Allgemeines Sturmabzeichen was instituted in 1940 and awarded to soldiers who participated in three or more infantry assaults, counter-attacks, or close combat actions, often highlighting the courage and frontline involvement of support troops such as pioneers.
Collector’s Note
A desirable and well-documented award paper, featuring the scarce divisional connection to both the Balkans campaign and the later Italian front. The signature of Generalmajor Friedrich Stahl further enhances the historical and collector’s value.
Eduard Dietl – 3.Geb.Div., Gebirgs-Korps Norwegen & 20. Gebirgsarmee (Schwertern) (Wartime Signed)
€155,00Original Wartime Signature on a Postcard of Generaloberst Eduard Dietl (21 July 1890 † 23 June 1944) was one of the most renowned commanders of the German mountain troops (Gebirgstruppe) during the Second World War. Rising from Generalleutnant to Generaloberst, he led German forces in Norway and later commanded the 20. Gebirgsarmee in the far north. He was among the earliest recipients of the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes and one of the very few to be awarded the Eichenlaub and Schwertern.
Awards and Decorations
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Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross – 9 May 1940, as Generalleutnant und Kommandeur of 3. Gebirgs-Division.
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Oak Leaves (Eichenlaub) – 19 July 1940, as Generalleutnant und Kommandierender General of Gebirgs-Korps Norwegen.
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Swords (Schwertern) – 1 July 1944, as Generaloberst und Oberbefehlshaber of 20. Gebirgsarmee.
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Additional awards: Iron Cross (1914) 1st and 2nd Class, Clasp to the Iron Cross (1939), and numerous foreign and campaign decorations.
Item Details
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Original wartime signature of Generaloberst Eduard Dietl.
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Signed on a wartime postcard.
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Condition: As seen – period ink signature, postcard stock consistent with the era.
Death
On 23 June 1944, the Ju 52 transport aircraft carrying Dietl crashed near Rettenegg, Styria, killing him along with General der Infanterie Thomas-Emil von Wickede, General der Gebirgstruppe Karl Eglseer, Generalleutnant Franz Rossi, and three others. There were no survivors.
Collector’s Note
Eduard Dietl remains one of the most iconic figures of the Gebirgstruppe and among the most decorated German commanders of WWII. His status as a Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern recipient, combined with his high command role and tragic death in 1944, makes his original wartime autograph a highly desirable and rare collectible.
Theodor Scherer – 281. Sicherungs-Division (Eichenlaub) (Wartime Signed)
€150,00Original Wartime Signature on a Postcard of Generalleutnant Theodor Scherer (17 July 1889 † 11 May 1951) was a German Army officer best known for his leadership during the Demyansk Pocket battles in 1942. As commander of the 281. Sicherungs-Division, Scherer’s determined defense against Soviet forces earned him both the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes and later the Eichenlaub to the Knight’s Cross.
Awards and Decorations
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Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross – 20 February 1942, as Generalmajor und Kommandeur of 281. Sicherungs-Division.
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Oak Leaves (Eichenlaub) – 5 August 1942, as Generalleutnant und Kommandeur of 281. Sicherungs-Division.
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Iron Cross (1914) 1st and 2nd Class.
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Clasp to the Iron Cross (1939) 1st and 2nd Class.
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Additional Wehrmacht and long service awards.
Item Details
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Original wartime signature of Generalleutnant Theodor Scherer.
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Signed on a wartime postcard.
Collector’s Note
Theodor Scherer is remembered as the “Hero of Demyansk” for his role in the encirclement battles on the Eastern Front. His autograph is scarce and highly collectible, particularly on wartime material, as he received both the Knight’s Cross and Oak Leaves within the same year of heavy combat.
Hugo Primozic – Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 667 (Eichenlaub) (Wartime Signature)
€100,00Original Wartime Signature on a Wartime Postcard of Hugo Primozic. Oberleutnant Hugo Primozic (16 February 1914 – 18 March 1996) was one of the most successful Sturmgeschütz (assault gun) commanders of the Second World War. Serving with Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 667, he achieved remarkable success against Soviet armor, earning both the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross and the Oak Leaves within a span of just a few months in late 1942 and early 1943. His extraordinary tally of destroyed enemy tanks made him one of the legendary figures of the German assault gun arm.
Awards and Decorations
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Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 19 September 1942, as Wachtmeister and Zugführer, 2./Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 667.
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Awarded for destroying 45 enemy tanks during fighting in the central sector of the Eastern Front. Of these, Primozic destroyed 24 in one day (15 September 1942), halting a major Soviet breakthrough.
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Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub) – 25 January 1943, as Oberwachtmeister and Zugführer, 2./Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 667.
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Awarded for raising his total of destroyed tanks to 60. On 11 December 1942 alone, he destroyed 7 Soviet tanks during a counterattack.
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Career Highlights
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Zugführer (platoon leader) in 2./Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 667, operating on the Eastern Front.
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September 1942: Destroyed 24 tanks in a single day, preventing a Soviet breakthrough – a feat that earned him the Ritterkreuz.
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December 1942: In another display of skill and tenacity, destroyed 7 tanks in one day, bringing his tally to 60 and earning him the Eichenlaub.
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Rose to the rank of Oberleutnant before the war’s end.
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Survived the conflict and lived until 1996.
Item Details
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Authentic wartime signature of Hugo Primozic.
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Signed on a wartime postcard.
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Condition: Good, clear and well-preserved.
Collector’s Note
Hugo Primozic stands among the most celebrated Sturmgeschütz aces of the German Army. His tank-destroying record – especially the extraordinary achievement of 24 tanks in a single day – has become legendary. His autograph, particularly on a wartime postcard, is a prized piece for collectors of Panzerjäger history, Ritterkreuz recipients, and Eastern Front memorabilia.
Horst Niemack – Aufklärungs-Abt. 5 & Panzer-Füsilier-Rgt. “Großdeutschland” (Schwertern) (Wartime Signed)
€145,00Original Wartime Signature on a Wartime Postcard of Generalmajor Horst Niemack (10 March 1909, Hannover † 7 April 1992, Groß Hehlen) was a highly decorated German Army officer and one of the most famous commanders of the Großdeutschland Division. Beginning his career as a Rittmeister in cavalry and reconnaissance units, he rose to command the Panzer-Füsilier-Regiment “Großdeutschland”. Niemack was one of the rare recipients of the Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern.
Awards and Decorations
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Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross – 14 July 1940, as Rittmeister und Kommandeur of Aufklärungs-Abteilung 5.
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Oak Leaves (Eichenlaub) – 10 August 1941, as Rittmeister und Kommandeur of Aufklärungs-Abteilung 5, 5. Infanterie-Division.
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Swords (Schwertern) – 4 June 1944, as Oberst und Kommandeur of Panzer-Füsilier-Regiment “Großdeutschland,” Panzer-Grenadier-Division “Großdeutschland”.
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Iron Cross (1939) 1st and 2nd Class, German Cross in Gold, and other Wehrmacht service and campaign decorations.
Item Details
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Original wartime signature of Generalmajor Horst Niemack.
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Signed on a wartime postcard.
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Condition: As seen – period ink autograph on postcard stock.
Collector’s Note
Horst Niemack was one of the most prominent commanders of the Großdeutschland Division, leading elite infantry and armored formations in some of the fiercest fighting on the Eastern Front. His status as a Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords recipient makes his autograph especially desirable for advanced collectors of Heer and Großdeutschland memorabilia.
Nikolaus von Falkenkorst – XXI. Armeekorps – Norway (Wartime Signed)
€125,00Original Wartime Signature on a Postcard of Generaloberst Nikolaus von Falkenhorst (17 January 1885 † 18 June 1968) was a senior commander in the German Army, best known for leading the successful invasion and occupation of Norway (Weserübung) in 1940. He served as Kommandierender General of XXI. Armeekorps during the campaign and later as Oberbefehlshaber in Norwegen.
Awards and Decorations
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Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross – 30 April 1940, as General der Infanterie und Kommandierender General of XXI. Armeekorps.
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German Cross in Silver (Deutsches Kreuz in Silber) – 20 January 1945.
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Iron Cross (1914) 1st and 2nd Class, Clasp to the Iron Cross (1939), and various long service and campaign awards.
Ritterkreuz Citation (excerpt):
“…With unstoppable forward drive, German troops have established a land connection between Oslo and Trondheim. Thus the Allied aim to bring us to our knees through an occupation of Norway has now definitively failed… As a sign of this appreciation I am awarding the Knight’s Cross to the Supreme Commander in Norway, General von Falkenhorst.”
Item Details
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Original wartime signature of Generaloberst Nikolaus von Falkenhorst.
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Signed on a wartime postcard.
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Size: standard postcard format.
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Condition: As seen – period ink signature on postcard stock.
Collector’s Note
Nikolaus von Falkenhorst was one of the most significant German commanders of the Norwegian campaign, directly tied to Hitler’s strategic success in Scandinavia. His Knight’s Cross award citation was widely publicized as a propaganda tool. Original autographs of Falkenhorst on wartime postcards are sought-after, especially given his role as Oberbefehlshaber Norwegen and his later postwar trial and imprisonment.
Ritterkreuz for: “…With unstoppable forward drive, German troops have established a land connection between Oslo and Trondheim. Thus the Allied aim to bring us to our knees through an occupation of Norway has now definitively failed. Units of the Heer, Kriegsmarine and Luftwaffe have brought us this victory through exemplary cooperation, a victory which is a testament to the audacity of our young German Wehrmacht… Through me the nation speaks its’ thanks. As a sign of this appreciation I am awarding the Knight’s Cross to the Supreme Commander in Norway, General von Falkenhorst.”
Werner Pankow – Infanterie-Regiment 151 (Wartime Signed)
€95,00Original Wartime Signature on a Postcard of Werner Pankow. Hauptmann Dr. Werner Pankow (02.02.1897 † 06.09.1980) earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on September 20, 1941 as Hauptmann d.R. und Führer of the II. Bataillon/ Infanterie-Regiment 151 of 61. Infanterie-Division. Good condition. Edges have been cut.
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.
Eduard Dietl – 3.Geb.Div., Gebirgs-Korps Norwegen & 20. Gebirgsarmee (Schwertern) (Wartime Signed)
€155,00Original Wartime Signature on a Postcard of Generaloberst Eduard Dietl (21 July 1890 † 23 June 1944) was one of the most renowned commanders of the German mountain troops (Gebirgstruppe) during the Second World War. Rising from Generalleutnant to Generaloberst, he led German forces in Norway and later commanded the 20. Gebirgsarmee in the far north. He was among the earliest recipients of the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes and one of the very few to be awarded the Eichenlaub and Schwertern.
Awards and Decorations
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Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross – 9 May 1940, as Generalleutnant und Kommandeur of 3. Gebirgs-Division.
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Oak Leaves (Eichenlaub) – 19 July 1940, as Generalleutnant und Kommandierender General of Gebirgs-Korps Norwegen.
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Swords (Schwertern) – 1 July 1944, as Generaloberst und Oberbefehlshaber of 20. Gebirgsarmee.
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Additional awards: Iron Cross (1914) 1st and 2nd Class, Clasp to the Iron Cross (1939), and numerous foreign and campaign decorations.
Item Details
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Original wartime signature of Generaloberst Eduard Dietl.
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Signed on a wartime postcard.
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Condition: As seen – period ink signature, postcard stock consistent with the era.
Death
On 23 June 1944, the Ju 52 transport aircraft carrying Dietl crashed near Rettenegg, Styria, killing him along with General der Infanterie Thomas-Emil von Wickede, General der Gebirgstruppe Karl Eglseer, Generalleutnant Franz Rossi, and three others. There were no survivors.
Collector’s Note
Eduard Dietl remains one of the most iconic figures of the Gebirgstruppe and among the most decorated German commanders of WWII. His status as a Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern recipient, combined with his high command role and tragic death in 1944, makes his original wartime autograph a highly desirable and rare collectible.
Death: On 23 June 1944, the Ju 52 aircraft carrying Dietl, General der Infanterie Thomas-Emil von Wickede, General der Gebirgstruppe Karl Eglseer, Generalleutnant der Gebirgstruppe Franz Rossi and three other passengers crashed in the vicinity of the small village of Rettenegg, Styria. There were no survivors.
Herbert Ihlefeld – Jagdgeschwader 77 “Herz As” (Schwertern) (Wartime Signed)
€150,00Original Wartime Signature on a Postcard of Herbert Ihlefeld. Oberst Herbert Ihlefeld
(1 June 1914 † 8 August 1995) was one of the Luftwaffe’s most successful fighter aces and a highly decorated officer. Serving with Jagdgeschwader 77 “Herz As”, he quickly distinguished himself as a front-line pilot and commander. Over the course of his wartime career, he achieved at least 122 confirmed aerial victories, making him one of the leading Experten of the Luftwaffe.
Awards and Decorations
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Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 13 September 1940, as Oberleutnant and Flugzeugführer, 1./JG 77 “Herz As”.
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Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub) – 27 June 1941, as Hauptmann and Kommandeur of I./JG 77 “Herz As”.
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German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 9 April 1942.
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Swords to the Knight’s Cross (Schwerter) – 24 April 1942, as Hauptmann and Kommandeur of I./JG 77 “Herz As”.
Career Highlights
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Began his career as a fighter pilot with Jagdgeschwader 77, quickly rising to become a Gruppenkommandeur.
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Distinguished himself during the Battle of Britain and in the Balkans and Eastern Front campaigns.
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By 1942, he had been awarded the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords, marking him as one of the Luftwaffe’s elite aces.
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Credited with at least 122 aerial victories across multiple theaters of war.
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Rose to the rank of Oberst, later holding senior command positions in the Luftwaffe.
Item Details
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Original wartime signature of Oberst Herbert Ihlefeld.
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Signed on a wartime postcard.
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Condition: Excellent, clear period autograph.
Collector’s Note
Herbert Ihlefeld stands among the great names of Luftwaffe fighter history, his career spanning the early victories of 1940 through the brutal campaigns of the East. With over 120 aerial victories and the Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern, his autograph remains a highly desirable piece for collectors of Luftwaffe aces and decorated fighter leaders.
Ernst Gürke – Flak-Regiment 43 (Wartime Signed)
€85,00Original Wartime Signture on a Postcard of Major Ernst Gürke (23 May 1899, Posen † 7 May 1946) was a Luftwaffe officer who rose to command Flak-Regiment 43 during the Second World War. His leadership in heavy anti-aircraft operations earned him high distinction, including the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes.
Awards and Decorations
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Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross – 3 November 1942, as Major and Kommandeur of Flak-Regiment 43.
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Iron Cross (1939) 1st and 2nd Class.
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Other Luftwaffe service and campaign awards.
Item Details
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Original wartime signature of Major Ernst Gürke.
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Signed on a wartime postcard.
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Size: standard postcard format.
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Condition: As seen – clear period ink signature with handling consistent with age.
Collector’s Note
Scarce autograph of a Luftwaffe Knight’s Cross recipient and flak regiment commander. Wartime-signed postcards from decorated Flak officers are far less common than those of fighter aces or Panzer leaders, making this a distinctive addition for collectors of Luftwaffe and Ritterkreuz history.
Otto Schniewind – Seekriegsleitung & Oberbefehlshaber des Marinegruppenkommandos Nord (Wartime Signed)
€0,01Original Postwar Signature of Generaladmiral Otto Schniewind (14 December 1887, Saarlouis † 26 March 1964, Linz) was a senior officer of the German Kriegsmarine during the Second World War. He rose through the ranks to serve as Vizeadmiral und Chef des Stabes der Seekriegsleitung (Chief of Staff of Naval Warfare Command), later commanding major naval formations.
Schniewind played a pivotal role in planning and overseeing naval operations, particularly during the Norwegian Campaign of 1940. His service earned him high recognition, and he remained one of the Kriegsmarine’s most senior figures until the final stages of the war.
Awards and Decorations
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Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 21 April 1940, as Vizeadmiral and Chief of Staff of the Seekriegsleitung.
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Iron Cross (1914) 1st and 2nd Class.
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Clasp to the Iron Cross (1939) 1st and 2nd Class.
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Wehrmacht Long Service Awards.
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Other naval and foreign decorations.
Item Details
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Original wartime signature of Generaladmiral Otto Schniewind.
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Signed on a wartime postcard.
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Condition: As seen – crisp, period ink autograph on original card stock.
Collector’s Note
Autographs of Kriegsmarine Generaladmirale are highly desirable, particularly those tied to decorated figures such as Schniewind, whose career spanned both world wars and included a Knight’s Cross award for his key role in early naval operations. This original wartime-signed postcard is a scarce and valuable addition for collectors of Kriegsmarine history, Knight’s Cross recipients, and senior German naval commanders.
Original Double Death Card – U-boot “U-613” & Waffen-SS Brother
€75,00A very rare double death card commemorating two brothers who both lost their lives in WWII – one at sea as a U-boat sailor, the other as a Waffen-SS soldier.
Matrosengefreiter Karl Prechtl
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Service: Crew member of U-613, a Type VIIC submarine of the Kriegsmarine.
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Fate: On 23 July 1943, U-613 was sunk in the mid-Atlantic, south of the Azores, by depth charges from the American destroyer USS George E. Badger (DD-196). The attack occurred near Convoy UGS-12, with the destroyer operating as part of the escort group for the escort carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9).
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Loss: All 48 crew members were killed. Wreckage and bodies were observed on the surface after the attack.
His Brother Anton Prechtl
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Service: Member of the Waffen-SS.
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Fate: Killed in Action on 4 October 1944 near Bozen (Bolzano), South Tyrol, during the late-war fighting in northern Italy.
Item Details:
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Rare double Sterbebild, commemorating two brothers lost in different branches of service.
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Represents both the U-boat war in the Atlantic and the bitter ground fighting in Italy.
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Condition: As seen, with period wear appropriate for age.
Historical Context – U-613:
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Commissioned in 1941 as part of the Type VIIC class, U-613 conducted patrols in the Atlantic during the height of the Battle of the Atlantic.
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Her sinking in July 1943 reflects the increasing dominance of Allied anti-submarine tactics, with combined destroyer and escort carrier groups effectively sealing off the Atlantic.
Collector’s Note:
Double death cards are already scarce; examples combining a U-boat crewman and a Waffen-SS casualty are particularly striking. This piece highlights the fate of two brothers, one lost in the vast Atlantic with U-613, the other fallen in the mountains of northern Italy in 1944. A powerful family memorial with strong historical and emotional significance.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-578” (Unexplained Disappearance))
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Matrosenobergefreiter Josef Seidl, who served aboard the German submarine U-578.
Service & Fate:
Josef Seidl was a crew member of U-578, a Type VIIC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 6 August 1942, U-578 departed St. Nazaire for operations in the Bay of Biscay and was never heard from again. The submarine was officially declared lost with 49 dead (all hands).
Earlier accounts incorrectly credited her sinking to a Vickers Wellington H of RAF 311 (Czechoslovak) Squadron on 10 August 1942, but modern research has disproven this claim. The true cause of U-578’s disappearance remains unknown.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild of Josef Seidl.
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Memorial for a sailor lost in one of the war’s unexplained U-boat disappearances.
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Condition: As seen, with expected age-related wear.
Historical Context – U-578:
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Type: Type VIIC submarine, backbone of the German U-boat fleet.
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Patrols: Took part in Atlantic convoy hunting operations during the height of the Battle of the Atlantic.
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Loss: Her disappearance highlights the dangers of minefields, technical failures, or unrecorded Allied attacks, which remain part of the mystery surrounding U-boat warfare.
Collector’s Note:
Death cards from mysteriously lost U-boats like U-578 are highly sought after. This example, dedicated to Josef Seidl, connects directly to one of the Kriegsmarine’s unsolved wartime losses. A poignant and historically significant addition to any collection of U-boat and naval memorabilia.
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-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-222” (Collided with “U-626”)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) commemorating Richard Donhauser, a crew member of the German submarine U-222.
Service & Fate:
Donhauser served aboard U-222, a Type VIIC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 2 September 1942, during training operations in the Baltic Sea west of Pillau, U-222 collided with U-626 and sank at position 54.25N, 19.30E. Of the crew, 42 men perished and only 3 survived.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild memorial card.
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Honors a submariner lost in a rare training accident rather than combat.
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Condition: Good, with light age wear.
Historical Context – U-222:
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Type: Type VIIC U-boat, backbone of the German U-boat fleet.
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Role: Training and preparation for operational deployment.
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Loss: Unlike many U-boats sunk in the North Atlantic by Allied forces, U-222’s loss came through a collision during exercises, highlighting the inherent dangers of submarine service even far from enemy action.
Collector’s Note:
This death card for Richard Donhauser represents the sacrifices of U-boat crews not only in combat but also in training. With only 3 survivors out of 45 men, the loss of U-222 stands as a stark reminder of the constant risks faced by the Kriegsmarine’s submarine arm. A poignant and historically significant piece for collectors of U-boat and Kriegsmarine memorabilia.
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-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-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.
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-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-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-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.