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Battle of Kovel 1944 – RARE Photo & Document Set (Signed by Gille as Kdr. “Festen Platzes Kowel”!)
€650,00A historically unified and RARE frontline-issued German combat award document set belonging to Gefreiter Martin Mohr, serving in a motorized Eastern Front artillery unit equipped with RSO tractor-towed Ie.F.H. howitzers (1. Batterie/ Heeres-Artillerie-Abteilung 426).
The centerpiece EK2 award certificate for the Iron Cross 2nd Class was issued in the field on 9 May 1944 (“Im Felde”), during the height of the Battle of the Kovel Pocket, and is personally signed in ink by Herbert Gille, in his role as Commander of “Fester Platz Kowel” — the fortified defensive sector responsible for the heroic containment and breakout of encircled German forces in April–May 1944.
Accompanying it is the matching Wound Badge in Black Besitzzeugnis, issued 2 July 1944, officially documenting Mohr’s first combat wounding sustained on 22 April 1944, a date that aligns precisely with the heaviest engagements of the Kovel defensive battles under Gille’s command.
Included original period photographs further reinforce the Eastern Front provenance, showing German troops, motorized artillery vehicles, and RSO unit field conditions, forming a cohesive historical grouping.
Award documents signed by Herbert Gille are exceptionally scarce — and examples explicitly issued under “Fester Platz Kowel” authority, dated during active combat, are among the rarest battle-attributed Iron Cross documents known to survive. This is a museum-grade artifact of unquestionable historical weight and extraordinary collector significance.
Flemish Collaboration Death Card – Vlaamse Wacht – Roger Sabbe
€150,00Original Flemish collaboration Death card of Roger Sabbe, who served with the Vlaamse Wacht and was Killed on December 7, 1922. Condition as seen.
Flemish Collaboration Death Card – Commander of the “Fabriekwacht” Murdered – Jozef Podevyn
€150,00Original Flemish collaboration Death card of Jozef-Domien Podevyn, who was murdered on 25 october 1942. Commander of the Fabriekswacht. Condition as seen.
Press Photo: Hitlerjugend-Vlaanderen & BDM-Vlaanderen in Gent
€150,00Original Flemish collaboration press photo of the Hitlerjugend-Vlaanderen & BDM-Vlaanderen in Gent. Condition as seen. Size: 18x24cm.
VNV Mededeelingen – 1943 – (Price Per Piece)
€40,00Authentic original issues of “Mededeelingen” published by the Vlaamsch Nationaal Verbond (VNV), dated 1943. Historical World War II–era printed material.
Available issues:
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No. 1 / 1943
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No. 4 / 1943
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No. 6 / 1943
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No. 16 / 1943
Condition: As shown in the photos. Please review images carefully for details.
Purchase options:
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Available individually (random issue send)
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Or as a complete set of 4 issues (Add 4x to Basket)
Price is per piece. If purchasing specific issue numbers, please indicate your desired issue(s) in the order notes. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding condition or availability.
WWII Kennkarte ID – Police Archive Find from Erzgebirge (Random Piece)
€12,00These authentic World War II–era German Kennkarten were originally discovered as part of a large archival lot from a former police station / municipal building. They are original duplicate identity cards, issued between 1939 and 1941, complete with photograph, handwritten signature, and inked handprints. The reverse is blank.
All IDs originate from the Stollberg area in the Erzgebirge region, making them a fascinating and tangible piece of local wartime history. Each document reflects the administrative practices of the period and is ideal for collectors, historians, museums, or display purposes.
Please note:
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Price is per individual Kennkarte
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One random ID will be selected per order – every piece is unique
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If you have a preference (e.g. male or female), you may leave a note at checkout and I will do my best to accommodate your request if available
A genuine historical artifact with strong visual and documentary appeal — no reproductions, no modern copies.
Death Card – SS-Panzer-Regiment 5 “Wiking” (Born in Belgium! Card printed in Malmedy!)
€60,00Original German Death Card of a Waffen-SS soldier Killed in Action in Ssreduy, USSR. Serving with the 3. Kompanie/ SS-Panzer-Regiment 5 “Wiking” as a Funker (information via Ancestry). He was killed when his tank was KO’d (Volltreffer, Panzergranate). He was born in Amel, Belgium! Death card printed in Malmedy! Condition as seen.
Death Card – KIA Belmonte, Italy – Nachrichten-Abteilung 64
€15,00Original German Death Card of a soldier Killed in Action in Belmonte, Italy. Serving with the 1. Kompanie/ Nachrichten-Abteilung 64 (information via Ancestry). Condition as seen.
Death Card – Waffen-SS Soldier (Died in Siberian Captivity, 1946)
€35,00Original German Death Card of a Waffen-SS Soldier which did in captivity in Siberia in 1946. Condition as seen.
Feldpostcard of Flemish W-SS Volunteer – Firmin van Belle (Murdered while on Leave, SS-Panzer-Regiment 2)
€250,00Original handwritten postcard from SS-Sturmmann Firmin van Belle, who served with the SS-Panzer-Regiment 2 of the 2. SS-Panzer-Division “Das Reich”! He was murdered while on leave at home. Condition as seen.
“De Jonge Nationaalsocialist” NSJV Magazine
€55,00Original NSJV (Nationaalsocialistische Jeugd Vlaanderen) “De Jonge Nationaalsocialist” magazine. Complete. Condition as seen.
4x VNV (Vlaams Nationaal Verbond) “Strijd” Newspaper
€80,00Original 4x VNV (Vlaams Nationaal Verbond) “Strijd” newspaper. Complete, overall good condition.
Wehrdienst-Ehrendienst – Panzer-Regiment 3
€100,00Original Wehrdienst-Ehrendienst from the Panzer-Regiment 3, complete, not filled in. Condition as seen.
Death Card Panzergrenadier-Regiment 304 KIA Normandy
€75,00Original German Death Card for a soldier, serving with the Panzergrenadier-Regiment 304, who was Killed in Action in Normandy. Condition as seen.
Death Card – Flemish W-SS Volunteer of SS-Infanterie-Regiment “Nordland”
€175,00Original death card of Flemish Waffen-SS volunteer Hugo de Kee who served with the SS-Infanterie-Regiment “Nordland”. Condition as seen.
Post-War Dutch Judicial Index Card – Rijksrechercheur (born in Opsterland)
€90,00Original post-war Dutch judicial registration card (justitiële / vonnissenkaart), accompanied by a typed judicial case summary, issued by the Dutch Special Court of Justice / Amsterdam Court of Appeal, dated 31 December 1949, sentencing a national police investigator to 2 years imprisonment for collaboration-era abuses.
This historically significant artifact documents misconduct by a Rijksrechercheur (national police investigator) who was operating while seconded to a Central National Police Investigation Special Department under German command during WWII. The typed record outlines:
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Illegal interrogations leading to the arrest of civilians
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Acceptance of substantial bribes (200 guilders, 20 kg of fat, food staples)
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Participation in and facilitation of clandestine/black-market meat trade
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Abuse of office to influence detentions, releases, and prisoner transfers
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Systematic failure to submit legally required wartime distribution permits
The document contains both official typed case findings and handwritten personal registry information, including birth year 1893 and address in Amsterdam and was born in Opsterland.
Key Attributes:
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Genuine 1949 Dutch judiciary record
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Direct insight into wartime police collaboration and corruption cases
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Mentions multiple named civilian victims and bribe amounts
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Ideal for collectors of WWII legal history, occupation-era policing, or Dutch resistance-era documentation
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Excellent condition for age, visible folds and period-accurate typeface
A rare and powerful piece of Dutch WWII judicial and policing history with clear relevance to occupation-era abuse of authority and post-war accountability.
Post-War Dutch Judicial Index Card – Wachbataillon “Nordwest” & SS-Freiwilligen-Grenadier-Rgt. 84
€90,00Original post-war Dutch judicial registration card (justitiële / vonnissenkaart), accompanied by a typed judicial case summary, relating to a German War Criminal, the notorious Landwacht commander of Winschoten.
These documents originate from the Dutch Bijzondere Rechtspleging (Special Courts), established after WWII to prosecute collaboration and war crimes.
Translated judicial content (summary)
“Served as adjutant with the HQ at the SS-Wachbataillon Nordwest and the SS-Freiwilligen-Grenadier-Regiment 84 and at the time:”
In 1944 in Amersfoort and Leersum, arrested or had arrested 13 people and transferred or had them transferred to an investigation barracks of the Security Police (Sipo), which action resulted in the death of 7 people and the deprivation of liberty for more than one month of 6 people;
In 1944 in Amersfoort and Uddel, mistreated 4 defenseless detainees who were under his authority in order to obtain information;
In November 1944 in Uddel, killed one detainee;
In 1944 in Amersfoort and Leusden, assisted in committing acts of destruction and sabotage, which were not justified by military necessity or wartime emergency;
In October 1944 in Amersfoort, looted private property;
In 1944, participated in raids (round-ups of civilians);
Sentenced to five years imprisonment, with deduction (of time already served).
Condition
Original documents in used archival condition. Handwritten, typed, and stamped entries present. Wear consistent with age and official use.
Outstanding DKiG Soldbuch & Wehrpass Grouping to Oberst Wentscher, 13. Panzer-Division
€2.100,00An exceptional and historically significant Soldbuch and Wehrpass grouping to Oberst Gerhard Wentscher, an early recipient of the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold, awarded on 1 December 1941 for his service as commander of (Panzer-)Artillerie-Regiment 13, 13. Panzer-Division.
Wentscher was a career officer with an extensive and well-documented military career spanning both World Wars. Promoted to Leutnant in 1915, he earned four awards during the First World War, including the Iron Cross 1st Class. He joined the Wehrmacht as a Hauptmann in 1934, became Kompaniechef in Artillerie-Regiment 13 in 1936, and following promotion to Major, served as Adjutant of the 13. Infanterie-Division from 1938.
In this role he participated in the Polish Campaign, earning the Spange zum EK II, and in the Western Campaign, where he was awarded the Spange zum EK I. After the conversion of the 13. Infanterie-Division into the 13. Panzer-Division, Wentscher served on the Eastern Front as Oberstleutnant and commander of Artillerie-Regiment 13. He was severely wounded in the leg on 13 October 1941, leading to his early award of the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold on 1 December 1941. Declared unfit for further front-line service, he completed the war as an Oberst in the Oberkommando des Heeres.
Over approximately 18 years of service, Wentscher was entitled to an impressive twelve awards, including:
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Iron Cross II Class
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Iron Cross I Class
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Wound Badge in Black
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Honour Cross for Front Fighters
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Long Service Award IV Class
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Spange zum EK II
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Sudetenland Medal
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Spange zum EK I
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Officer’s Cross of the Romanian Crown
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Wound Badge in Silver
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General Assault Badge
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Deutsches Kreuz in Gold
The Soldbuch is a standout centerpiece, featuring an extraordinary large portrait photograph—quite possibly one of the finest Soldbuch photos extant. Wentscher is depicted holding a telephone, an action entirely against regulations for Soldbuch photographs, and is wearing his Deutsches Kreuz in Gold along with other decorations. The Soldbuch was opened in August 1939 and signed by Generalleutnant Moritz von Faber du Faur, divisional commander. It is complete and in very good condition.
The Wehrpass, opened in January 1941, also contains a military portrait photo showing Wentscher wearing his WWI EK I. It is complete, clean, and in excellent condition, meticulously listing his awards, units, campaigns, and promotions.
Additionally included in this outstanding grouping:
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Inländer-Jahresjagdschein (1940) with military portrait photograph
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Driving license, issued in Gross-Born, 1938
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A small private photograph
This is a unique, museum-quality grouping to a documented Panzer Oberst and early DKiG recipient. An unparalleled opportunity to acquire a true centerpiece for any advanced collection. The Soldbuch in particular offers exceptional visual and historical impact when displayed.
SOLD ON COMMISSION
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-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.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-189” (Sunk by British Liberator)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Xaver Ehrensperger, a crew member of German submarine U-189.
Service & Fate:
Xaver Ehrensperger served aboard U-189, a Type IXC/40 U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 23 April 1943, U-189 was sunk in the North Atlantic east of Cape Farewell, Greenland, at position 59.50N, 34.43W. The submarine was destroyed by depth charges dropped from a British Consolidated B-24 Liberator of No. 120 Squadron RAF (pilot: F/O D.E. Curtis).
The sinking resulted in the loss of all 54 crew members, including Ehrensperger — no survivors.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild (death card) of Xaver Ehrensperger.
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Commemorates his sacrifice while serving on U-189.
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Condition: As seen; light handling wear consistent with age.
Historical Context – U-189:
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Type: Type IXC/40 ocean-going U-boat.
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Commissioned: 1942 under Kapitänleutnant Hellmut Kallmann.
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Operations: Operated in the North Atlantic against Allied convoys.
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Loss: Destroyed on her first patrol in April 1943, with the total loss of crew.
Collector’s Note:
Death cards linked to U-boat crews lost with all hands are highly sought after, as they represent both personal remembrance and the broader tragedy of the Battle of the Atlantic. This example for Xaver Ehrensperger of U-189 is a poignant reminder of the extreme dangers faced by German submariners, who suffered some of the highest casualty rates of any service in WWII.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-578” (MIA August 1942, No Explanation)
€55,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Martin Braun, a crew member of German submarine U-578.
Service & Fate:
Martin Braun served aboard U-578, a Type VIIC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 6 August 1942, the submarine was reported missing in the Bay of Biscay. No explanation for her loss has ever been determined. The disappearance resulted in the loss of all 49 crew members, including Braun — no survivors.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild (death card) of U-boat crew member Martin Braun.
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Commemorates his sacrifice while serving aboard U-578.
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Condition: As seen; shows age and wear consistent with period.
Historical Context – U-578:
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Type: Type VIIC Atlantic-class submarine.
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Commissioned: 1941 under Kapitänleutnant Ernst-August Rehwinkel.
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Operational History: Took part in Atlantic convoy battles, credited with sinking several Allied vessels.
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Loss: Disappeared without trace in August 1942 in the Bay of Biscay; circumstances remain unknown.
Collector’s Note:
Death cards linked to U-boats lost with all hands are highly sought after, as they reflect both personal remembrance and the perilous nature of the Battle of the Atlantic, where over 70% of U-boat crews never returned. This example for Martin Braun of U-578 offers a poignant and rare memorial connection to one of the Kriegsmarine’s many missing submarines.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-609” (Sunk by a Free French corvette)
€30,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Willibald Engelbrecht, a crew member of the German submarine U-609.
Service & Fate:
Engelbrecht served aboard U-609, a Type VIIC U-boat of the Kriegsmarine. On 6 February 1943, at 2204 hours, U-609 was sunk in the North Atlantic south-east of Cape Farwell, Greenland, at position 54.56N, 28.11W. The submarine was destroyed by depth charges from the Free French corvette Lobelia. All 47 crew members perished, with no survivors.
Item Details:
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Original WWII Sterbebild memorial card.
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Commemorates a submariner lost with his entire crew during the height of the Battle of the Atlantic.
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Condition: As seen, with natural signs of age.
Historical Context – U-609:
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Type: Type VIIC U-boat, the most numerous and iconic U-boat class.
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Loss: The destruction of U-609 is notable as part of the Allied anti-submarine campaign, where even Free French naval forces played a decisive role in closing the Atlantic shipping lanes to German raiders.
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Crew: 47 men lost, a stark reminder of the heavy toll faced by U-boat crews.
Collector’s Note:
This death card of Willibald Engelbrecht is a tangible piece of Kriegsmarine and U-boat history, tied directly to the dramatic naval struggle of the North Atlantic. Losses to Free French forces are comparatively rare, making this a particularly interesting addition for collectors of submarine and naval memorabilia.
Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-460” (Sunk by US Avenger & Wildcraft Aircraft)
€30,00Original WWII death card (Sterbebild) for Anton Bergbauer, a crew member of the German submarine U-460.
Service & Fate:
Bergbauer served aboard U-460, a Type XIV “Milchkuh” supply submarine of the Kriegsmarine. On 4 October 1943, the boat was sunk in the North Atlantic north of the Azores, at position 43.18N, 28.58W, by depth charges from Avenger and Wildcat aircraft (VC-9) of the American escort carrier USS Card. Of the crew, 62 men were killed and only 2 survived.
Item Details:
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Original wartime Sterbebild memorial card.
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Commemorates a sailor lost with his boat in one of the rare supply U-boat sinkings.
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Condition: As seen, with natural age wear and patina.
Historical Context – U-460:
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Type: Type XIV U-boat (nicknamed Milchkuh or “Milk Cow”), designed to resupply other U-boats at sea.
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Role: These boats carried fuel, torpedoes, food, and provisions, greatly extending the range of attack submarines during the Battle of the Atlantic.
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Loss: The sinking of U-460 was part of the concerted Allied effort to hunt down and destroy Milchkuh U-boats, severely weakening German U-boat endurance in the Atlantic.
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Casualties: The destruction of U-460 with 62 dead illustrates the high risks faced by even non-combatant support submarines.
Collector’s Note:
Sterbebilder from supply U-boats are especially scarce due to the limited number of these vessels built and their strategic importance. This death card for Anton Bergbauer offers a rare memorial to one of the sailors lost in the sinking of U-460, making it a significant and poignant addition for collectors of Kriegsmarine and Battle of the Atlantic relics.
Enveloppe of the Reichskommissar Niederlande (Seyss-Inquart)
€95,00Original (empty) Enveloppe for the Der Reichskommissar für die Besetzten Niederländendischen Gebiete Den Haag, which was Arthur Seyss-Inquart.
SS-Obergruppenführer Arthur Seyss-Inquart (22.07.1892 † 16.10.1946) (22.07.1892 † 16.10.1946) was Austrian Nazi politician who served as Chancellor of Austria in 1938 for two days before the Anschluss. His positions in Nazi Germany included deputy governor to Hans Frank in the General Government of Occupied Poland, and Reichskommissar for the German-occupied Netherlands. In the latter role, he shared responsibility for the deportation of Dutch Jews and the shooting of hostages. At the Nuremberg trials, Seyss-Inquart was found guilty of war crimes and crimes against humanity, sentenced to death, and executed by hanging. Postcardsize. Condition as seen.
Punishing Paper Kriegskommandantur Ypern (Ieper)
€25,00Original Punishing Paper issued by the Kriegskommandantur Ypern (Ieper). Ca. Postcardsize.
Fragebogen für Ausländer – Belgian from Kerkrade
€95,00Original Fragebogen für Ausländer for a Belgian from Kerkrade. Left heading “Der Höhere SS- und Polizeiführer beim Reichskommisar für die besetzten niederländischen Gebiete – Ein- und Ausreisestelle Maastricht. A4 size. Condition as seen.
Feldpostbrief des SS-Oberabschnitss Alpenland (Brief 4, Juni 1942)
€125,00Original small booklet called “Feldpostbrief des SS-Oberabschnitss Alpenland”, ed. Brief 4, Salzburg im Juni 1942. Condition as seen. A5 size. All pages present.
Death Card: Gebirgsjäger-Regiment (Top Photo)
€10,00Original Death Card (“Sterbebild”) of a Gebirgsjäger, who served with a Gebirgsjäger-Regiment. Condition as seen.
US Airborne Propaganda Leaflet (Wir bitten um Auskunft)
€25,00Original US airborne propaganda leaflet which were dropped on the Germans troops on the Western Front. Condition as seen.
US Airborne Propaganda Leaflet (Feldpost 21.Nov.1944)
€25,00Original US airborne propaganda leaflet which were dropped on the Germans troops on the Western Front. Condition as seen.
US Airborne Propaganda Leaflet (275.Infanterie-Division)
€25,00Original US airborne propaganda leaflet which were dropped on the Germans troops on the Western Front. Condition as seen.
Death Card: Gebirgsjäger-Regiment 98 (1. Gebirgs-Division) (Top Photo)
€20,00Original Death Card (“Sterbebild”) of a Gebirgsjäger, who served with the Gebirgsjäger-Regiment 98 of the 1. Gebirgs-Division. Condition as seen.
Death Card of Nachtjäger (Me 410 “Hornisse”) in Kampfgeschwader 51
€45,00Original Death Card (“Sterbebild”) of Unteroffizier Hans Reißer, who served as Nachtjäger in 5. Staffel/ Kampfgeschwader 51. He flew the Messerschmitt Me 410 “Hornisse” and crashed in Montidier, France in July 1944!
Kaufmannsgehilfenbrief (Ulm, Donau) (Random Piece)
€20,00Original Kaufmanngehilfenbrief from people in Ulm (Donau). Condition as seen.
Price per Piece! You’ll get one random.
Death Card: Police Officer that died in 1951 (wartime photo on card)
€10,00Original death card (“Sterbebild”) of Kommisär d. Landespolizei Andreas Müller. Interestingly, he died in 1951 but still with wartime photo on the card.