Archive (Sold)

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Josef Kammhuber. General der Flieger Josef Kammhuber (19 August 1896, Minden † 25 January 1986, Bonn) was a German Luftwaffe officer who rose to the rank of General der Flieger and became the founding commander of Germany’s night fighter arm. He was decorated with the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross and was cited several times in the Wehrmachtbericht for the success of his units. After the war, he joined the Bundeswehr, where he became the first Inspector of the Air Force (Inspekteur der Luftwaffe), shaping West Germany’s postwar air defense.

Awards and Decorations:

• Wehrmachtbericht Mention – 10 April 1941: Night fighter units under Kammhuber, along with flak and naval artillery, shot down 16 aircraft in one night and 7 the night before.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 9 July 1941, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of 1. Nachtjagd-Division.

• Wehrmachtbericht Mention – 27 March 1942: Night fighter units under Kammhuber’s leadership celebrated their 500th aerial victory.

• Wehrmachtbericht Mention – 31 May 1942: His night fighter units achieved their 600th aerial victory. On this night, Hauptmann Streib claimed his 25th and 26th night victories, while Oberleutnant Knacke achieved his 20th.

Career Highlights:

• Veteran of the First World War, later returning as a professional officer in the Luftwaffe.

• Appointed commander of the newly created 1. Nachtjagd-Division, becoming the first general of night fighters.

• Creator of the “Kammhuber Line”, a radar-guided system of defensive night fighter sectors, pioneering integrated air defense concepts.

• Though eventually compromised by Allied countermeasures, his system laid the groundwork for modern air defense doctrine.

• Clashed with Erhard Milch and was removed from night fighter command in 1943, later serving as Luftwaffe commander in Scandinavia.

• After the war, joined the Bundeswehr in 1956, reaching the rank of General der Flieger and serving as the Luftwaffe’s first Inspector.

• Retired in 1962 and lived in Bonn until his death in 1986.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Flieger Josef Kammhuber.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear, well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
As the architect of the Luftwaffe night fighter arm, a Knight’s Cross recipient, and a multiple Wehrmachtbericht honoree, Kammhuber’s signature is highly sought after. His postwar career as the Bundeswehr’s first Inspector of the Air Force gives his autograph a rare dual importance — bridging the Luftwaffe of the Second World War with NATO’s Cold War air defense.

Original Postwar Signature on the Reverse of an Wartime Postcard of Karl-Heinrich Bodenschatz. General der Flieger Karl-Heinrich Bodenschatz (10 December 1890, Rehau † 25 August 1979, Erlangen) was a German general and veteran of both World Wars. In the First World War he served as adjutant to the famous “Red Baron,” Manfred von Richthofen. During the Second World War, Bodenschatz became the liaison officer between Hermann Göring and Adolf Hitler, serving at the highest levels of the Third Reich’s military command.

On 20 July 1944, while serving at Hitler’s headquarters, Bodenschatz was gravely wounded in the assassination attempt at the Wolf’s Lair in Rastenburg. He received the 20. Juli 1944 Wound Badge in Gold, one of the rarest decorations of the war, awarded only to those injured in the failed plot. Bodenschatz was fortunate to survive, as officers immediately to his left and right were killed by the blast.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Flieger Karl-Heinrich Bodenschatz.

• Signature is located on the reverse of an original wartime postcard.

• Condition: Clear autograph on reverse; postcard well-preserved.

Collector’s Note:
As adjutant to the legendary Red Baron in WWI and later liaison between Göring and Hitler in WWII, Bodenschatz represents a unique bridge between Germany’s two great conflicts. His survival of the 20 July plot and the award of the extremely rare Gold Wound Badge (20. Juli 1944) make his signed material highly sought after. This example, signed on the reverse of an original wartime postcard, adds further desirability for serious collectors of Luftwaffe and high-command memorabilia.

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

Awards and Decorations:

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

Career Highlights:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Item Details:

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

• Signed on a postwar photograph and accompanying letter.

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

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

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Wolf Hagemann. Generalleutnant Wolf Hagemann (23 March 1898, Metz † 15 October 1983, Göttingen) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. He was twice decorated for distinguished leadership in battle, earning the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, Nr. 211) – 4 September 1940, as Oberstleutnant and Kommandeur of III./Gebirgsjäger-Regiment 139, 3. Gebirgs-Division.

  Awarded for his leadership and bravery in the Battle of Narvik (Norway, 1940), where his battalion played a decisive role in the successful mountain warfare operations against Allied forces.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, 484th award) – 4 June 1944, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of 336. Infanterie-Division, 17. Armee, Heeresgruppe Südukraine.

  Recognized for his division’s stubborn defensive performance on the Crimean front. On 8 April 1944, his troops repulsed a major Soviet attack against the Siwasch straits. Later, during 5–12 May 1944, he successfully delayed a Soviet breakthrough until the evening of 6 May, a feat of vital importance for the survival of the 17. Armee. The Oak Leaves were personally presented to him by Adolf Hitler on 22 June 1944.

Career Highlights:

• Served as a young officer in World War I, remaining in the Reichswehr after the war.

• Distinguished himself early in World War II with the 3. Gebirgs-Division in Norway, where his leadership at Narvik earned him the Knight’s Cross.

• Later promoted to divisional command, leading the 336. Infanterie-Division in the desperate defensive battles in the Crimea, earning the Oak Leaves for his leadership.

• Promoted to Generalleutnant, continuing to command until the final phases of the war.

• Captured in 1945 and held in captivity before returning to civilian life in West Germany. He lived until 1983.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Wolf Hagemann.

• Signed on a postwar photograph. Size: 7,3×10,5cm.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Wolf Hagemann’s dual decorations — the Knight’s Cross for Narvik and the Oak Leaves for his stand in the Crimea — mark him as one of the more notable divisional commanders of the Heer. His autograph is especially desirable for collectors focusing on the Gebirgsjäger and the Eastern Front’s late-war battles.

Original Postwar Signature on an Wartime Photograph of Hans Kissel. Generalmajor Hans Kissel (19 February 1911, Passau † 19 November 1984, Aichach) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalmajor during the Second World War. He distinguished himself as a regimental commander on the Eastern Front, earning both the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership in heavy fighting.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 18 June 1942, as Oberstleutnant and Führer of III./Jäger-Regiment 228, 101. Jäger-Division, Heer.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 17 March 1944, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Grenadier-Regiment 683, 335. Infanterie-Division, Heer.

Career Highlights:

• Entered the Reichswehr as a young officer and advanced steadily through the interwar years.

• Distinguished himself in 1942 as battalion commander in the 101. Jäger-Division, earning the German Cross in Gold.

• Later commanded Grenadier-Regiment 683 of the 335. Infanterie-Division, where his skillful leadership during defensive battles on the Eastern Front brought him the Knight’s Cross in 1944.

• Promoted to Generalmajor before the end of the war.

• In 1945, served as Chief of Staff of the Volkssturm, directing Germany’s last-ditch defensive organization.

• Captured by Allied forces and held in captivity before returning to civilian life in postwar Germany. He died in 1984.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Hans Kissel.

• Signed on an original photograph (size 7.6 × 10.7 cm).

• Condition: Clear, well-preserved autograph and photo.

Collector’s Note:
Hans Kissel’s decorations — the Knight’s Cross and German Cross in Gold — together with his unique role as Chief of Staff of the Volkssturm, make his signed photo a particularly notable item. The fact that the signature appears on an original wartime-era photograph (with dimensions 7.6 × 10.7 cm) adds further desirability for advanced collectors of Heer commanders and late-war leadership memorabilia.

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

Awards and Decorations:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Career Highlights:

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

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

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

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

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

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Georg Graf von Rittberg.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Format: Postcard-size photograph

• Date/Location: February 1934, Berchtesgaden

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

• Condition: As seen (please refer to photos)

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

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

Awards and Decorations:

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

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

Career Highlights:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Kavallerie Gustav Harteneck.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

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

Award:

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

Career Highlights:

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

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

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

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

• Lived in postwar Austria until his death in 1985.

Item Details:

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

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

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

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

Awards and Decorations:

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

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

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

Career Highlights:

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

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

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

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

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

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Erich Schneider.

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

• Condition: Good, with a clear autograph.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Walter Keiner. General der Artillerie Walter Keiner (30 December 1890, Benshausen † 23 January 1978, Gelnhausen) was a career artillery officer who rose to the rank of General der Artillerie in the German Army during the Second World War. He was decorated with the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership on the Eastern Front.

Award:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 17 July 1941, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of the 62. Infanterie-Division, for his role in the early stages of Operation Barbarossa.

Career Highlights:

• Entered service before the First World War, serving as an artillery officer and continuing through the Reichswehr.

• By 1941, commanded the 62. Infanterie-Division in the opening phases of the invasion of the Soviet Union, earning the Knight’s Cross for his successful leadership in combat.

• Promoted through the senior ranks of the Wehrmacht, ultimately reaching General der Artillerie.

• Lived in postwar Germany until his death in 1978.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Artillerie Walter Keiner.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition as seen.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Hermann Balck. General der Panzertruppen Hermann Balck (17 December 1893, Danzig-Langfuhr † 29 November 1982, Eberbach) was one of Germany’s most outstanding Panzer commanders of the Second World War. Renowned for his tactical brilliance, he rose to the rank of General der Panzertruppen and became one of only 27 recipients of the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 3 June 1940, as Oberstleutnant and Kommandeur of Schützen-Regiment 1, 1. Panzer-Division.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 20 December 1942, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of 11. Panzer-Division.

• Swords to the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves (Schwerter zum Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub) – 4 March 1943, as Generalleutnant and Kommandeur of 11. Panzer-Division.

• Diamonds to the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords (Brillanten zum Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern) – 31 August 1944, as General der Panzertruppen and Deputy Commander of 4. Panzer-Armee.

Career Highlights:

• Distinguished himself in the 1940 French campaign, where his Schützen-Regiment spearheaded Panzer thrusts, earning him the Knight’s Cross.

• Commanded the 11. Panzer-Division on the Eastern Front, where his bold maneuvers and rapid counterattacks earned him the Oak Leaves and Swords.

• Promoted to General der Panzertruppen, he was entrusted with higher-level commands, including corps and army responsibilities.

• Awarded the Diamonds in 1944, recognizing his leadership as one of the Wehrmacht’s most skilled operational commanders.

• After the war, Balck was tried by Allied authorities and later lived quietly in West Germany until his death in 1982.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Panzertruppen Hermann Balck.

• Signed on a postwar photograph. Postcardsize.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

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

Awards and Decorations:

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

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

Career Highlights:

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

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

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

• Promoted to Generalmajor before the end of the war.

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

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Heinrich Baron von Behr.

• Signed on a postwar photograph. Postcardsize.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

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

Award:

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

Career Highlights:

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

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

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

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

• Lived in postwar Germany until his death in 1976.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Wilhelm Thomas.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear autograph, well-preserved.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Gert Gustav Paul Jeschonnek. Vizeadmiral Gert Gustav Paul Jeschonnek (30 October 1912 † 18 April 1999) was a German naval officer whose career bridged both the Kriegsmarine of the Second World War and the postwar Bundesmarine of the Federal Republic of Germany. He is best remembered as Inspector of the Navy (Inspekteur der Marine), the highest-ranking officer of the postwar German Navy.

Career Highlights:

• Entered the Kriegsmarine before World War II, serving in various naval capacities during the conflict.

• Survived the collapse of the Third Reich and continued his career in uniform after the founding of the Bundeswehr in 1955.

• Rose rapidly in the Bundesmarine, holding senior staff and command positions.

• In 1967, appointed Inspector of the Navy (Inspekteur der Marine), becoming the professional head of the West German Navy and shaping its Cold War development within NATO.

• Promoted to Vizeadmiral, one of the highest flag ranks in the Bundesmarine.

• Retired in 1971 after a distinguished career spanning two eras of German naval history.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Vizeadmiral Gert Gustav Paul Jeschonnek.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear autograph, well-preserved.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Franz Schlieper. Generalmajor Franz Schlieper (22 August 1905 † 4 April 1974) was a career officer in the German Army during the Second World War who rose to divisional command. He was decorated with both the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his battlefield leadership.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 10 January 1944, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Grenadier-Regiment 94, 32. Infanterie-Division (Heer).

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 21 September 1944, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Grenadier-Brigade 1132, Führer of the 73. Infanterie-Division (Heer).

Career Highlights:

• Entered the Reichswehr as a young officer and advanced steadily through the interwar years.

• Distinguished himself as regimental commander with the 32. Infanterie-Division, earning the German Cross in Gold during the heavy fighting on the Eastern Front.

• Promoted to brigade and divisional command, he received the Knight’s Cross in late 1944 for his leadership of Grenadier-Brigade 1132 and acting command of the 73. Infanterie-Division.

• Captured by Soviet forces in May 1945 and held in captivity until 1955.

• Returned to Germany after release and lived there until his death in 1974.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Franz Schlieper.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Excellent preserved example, with clear autograph.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Gerhard Triepel genannt Schulze. Generalmajor Gerhard Triepel genannt Schulze (12 May 1899 † 28 May 1980) was a German Army officer during the Second World War who rose to the rank of Generalmajor. He distinguished himself as an artillery commander on the Western Front in 1944, earning the German Cross in Gold.

Award:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 16 October 1944, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Artillerie-Kommandeur 485, LXXXV. Armeekorps (Heer).

Career Highlights:

• Entered military service after the First World War and remained a career officer in the interwar Reichswehr.

• During World War II, commanded artillery formations and later senior staff positions.

• Earned the German Cross in Gold for his leadership of Artillerie-Kommandeur 485 under the LXXXV. Armeekorps, during the bitter defensive battles of late 1944.

• Promoted to Generalmajor, holding divisional-level responsibilities before the war’s end.

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

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

Awards and Decorations:

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

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

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

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

Career Highlights:

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

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

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

Item Details:

• Authentic wartime signature of Günther Hoffmann-Schönborn.

• Size: 7.5 × 10.5 cm photograph.

• Condition: Good, with clear autograph.

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

Award:

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

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

Career Highlights:

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

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

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

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

Item Details:

• Authentic wartime signature of Max-Günther Schrank.

• Signed on a postcard-sized medium.

• Condition: Good, preserved with clear autograph.

• Measurements: Standard postcard format.

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

Awards and Decorations:

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

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

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

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

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

Career Highlights:

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

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

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

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

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Paper Photo of Heinrich Lankenau. Generalleutnant der Ordnungspolizei u. SS-Gruppenführer Heinrich Bernhard Lankenau (11 October 1891, Hatten † 16 April 1983, Bad Salzuflen) was a senior German officer of the Ordnungspolizei and SS during the Second World War, holding some of the highest positions in regional police leadership. He attained the rank of Generalleutnant der Ordnungspolizei and SS-Gruppenführer.

Career Service Record:

• 15 June 1939 – Appointed Inspekteur der Ordnungspolizei Münster.

• September 1939 – March 1940 – Befehlshaber der Ordnungspolizei im Wehrkreis VI.

• 20 April 1940 – Promoted with the Charakter als Generalmajor der Ordnungspolizei.

• 30 October 1940 – Promoted to Generalmajor der Polizei (effective 1 August 1940, seniority 6 October 1940).

• 9 November 1942 – Bestowed the Charakter als Generalleutnant der Polizei.

• 1 December 1942 (Abordnung) / 1 February 1943 (Versetzung) – Posted as Befehlshaber der Ordnungspolizei beim Höheren SS- und Polizeiführer Nord-West in Den Haag, serving until 6 January 1944.

• 20 April 1943 – Promoted to Generalleutnant der Polizei.

• 1 February 1944 – Retired from active service at his own request following conflicts with HSSPF Nord-West Hanns Albin Rauter.

• 1 July 1944 – Formally placed in retirement.

• 1 September 1944 – Temporarily tasked with administration of the Landratsamt Beckum.

Original studio portrait of a Luftwaffe officer proudly wearing the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold. The set includes both a postcard-size photograph and a matching smaller ID-size photo, making this a fine pair for display or collection.

The officer is pictured in full uniform, with the impressive Deutsches Kreuz in Gold clearly visible on the right breast – a highly prestigious decoration awarded for repeated acts of bravery or leadership in combat.

• Format: One postcard-size studio portrait & one smaller ID-format photo

• Subject: Luftwaffe officer with Deutsches Kreuz in Gold and several other awards

• Condition: As seen (please refer to photos for details)

A desirable and authentic portrait set, ideal for collectors of Luftwaffe memorabilia or award-related photography.

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

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

Recipient: Polizei-Unterwachtmeister Oberpeilsteiner
Unit: SS-Gendarmerie-Bataillon 1 (mot.) — a rarely encountered formation that saw service on the Eastern Front.

Contents

• Award Document for the Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz (Wound Badge in Black), issued for his wound suffered on 1 August 1944

• Polizei-Dienstausweis (ID booklet, photo removed)

• Photographs (period originals)

• Letters & Personal Papers

• Various documents, including a paper mentioning his award of the Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern (War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords)

Collector’s Notes

• Rarely encountered unit: SS-Gendarmerie-Bataillon 1 (mot.) was part of the Ordnungspolizei and Waffen-SS structure, deployed in the East for security and combat operations.

• Grouping provides a valuable research opportunity with award papers, ID, letters, and period photographs.

• Solid centerpiece for a specialized Polizei, SS, or Eastern Front collection.

Condition

• As seen in photos: documents and papers show normal age-related wear; Wound Badge document well-preserved; Dienstausweis missing photo but otherwise intact.

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

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

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

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

Contents

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

• SS-Stammkarte

Service History

• Training: SS-Artillerie-Ersatz-Regiment

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

• Campaigns:

  • Italy (1943)

  • Eastern Front (late 1943–early 1944)

  • France, Battle of Normandy (summer 1944)

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

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

Historical Context: The Falaise Pocket

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

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

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

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

Condition

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

• Stammkarte included, further strengthening provenance.

Collector’s Notes

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

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

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

Original Scarce Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Leon Degrelle. SS-Standartenführer Leon Degrelle (15.06.1906 † 31.03.1994) earned the Ritterkreuz on February 20, 1944 as SS-Hauptsturmführer und Führer of the 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade “Wallonien”, the Eichenlaub on August 27, 1944 as SS-Sturmbannführer und Kommandeur of the 28. SS-Freiwilligen-Grenadier-Division “Wallonien” and Nahkampfspange in Gold on September 14, 1944. Condition as seen. Large Size (A4 height).

Original photograph showing personnel of the Waffen-SS. Postcardsize. Condition as seen.