Original period photograph showing Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring walking with Luftwaffe officers in front of the Arc de Triomphe, Paris. The image captures Göring wearing a light-colored summer uniform, accompanied by officers in dark Luftwaffe dress. The monument’s sculptural relief (“La Marseillaise” by François Rude) is clearly visible in the background.

Printed on contemporary photo paper with white border. Light age toning and minor edge wear; overall very good condition with sharp contrast.

Original wartime Waffen-SS photo lot consisting of 37 period photographs showing various units and personnel of the Waffen-SS in the field and on duty. The set features a wide variety of subjects and locations, offering a strong overview of SS front-line life during the Second World War.

Highlights include:

• Totenkopf Division: several photos showing motorcycles with the Totenkopf insignia visible on the sidecar.

• Leibstandarte “Adolf Hitler” Division: clear uniform views with cuff titles visible in multiple images.

• Field scenes with soldiers in camouflage smocks and helmet covers, armed and in combat gear.

• Group portraits, training shots, and informal snapshots, likely taken in occupied Europe and on the Eastern Front.

Uniform and equipment details visible throughout include field caps, M40 tunics, and SS-pattern camouflage garments, as well as vehicles and sidearms.

Historical Context:
The Waffen-SS represented the combat arm of the SS organization, and its divisions such as Totenkopf and Leibstandarte Adolf Hitler took part in major campaigns on both Eastern and Western fronts. These photographs document the uniforms, insignia, and conditions of those elite formations as they appeared during wartime.

Collector’s Note:
A substantial and varied grouping ideal for research or display, with strong photographic detail and divisional identifiers. Such mixed lots containing identifiable Totenkopf and Leibstandarte material are increasingly scarce.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Original wartime photograph showing a group of Waffen-SS and Wehrmacht officers gathered in discussion in an outdoor setting, likely during operations on the Eastern Front. The central figure, collector-attributed as SS-Gruppenführer Felix Steiner, can be seen wearing a Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz) around his neck, speaking with field officers in standard combat attire. Several soldiers stand nearby, listening attentively, indicating a briefing or inspection taking place close to the front.

Historical Context:
Wartime photographs such as this were often taken during command conferences or morale visits, documenting coordination between Waffen-SS field units and Army elements. By mid-1944, senior Waffen-SS officers frequently appeared at the front to review units engaged in the increasingly defensive battles on the Eastern Front. Such moments were sometimes photographed by Propaganda Kompanie correspondents or unit photographers for internal record and propaganda use.

Collector’s Note:
This photograph is a striking field image capturing the atmosphere of senior command within Waffen-SS formations during the later stages of the war. The collector’s attribution to Felix Steiner adds interest for those studying the structure and leadership of German armored and infantry formations. Original prints depicting identifiable high-ranking officers are valued for their documentary and research significance.

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

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

Original rare wartime photograph depicting Rudolf Hess standing in an open car during what appears to be a public gathering or rally. Several NSDAP officers and BDM girls are seen nearby, welcoming the official with flowers. A swastika flag is visible in the background along with crowds of onlookers. The image likely dates to the late 1930s or early 1940s, typical of propaganda-style event photography of the time.

• Location: Unidentified (likely within Germany)

• Size: Postcardsize

• Condition: Excellent tonal quality and detail; light handling wear consistent with age.

Historical Context:
Rudolf Hess (1894–1987) served as Deputy Führer of the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP) until 1941. Known as one of Adolf Hitler’s earliest followers, Hess played a significant administrative and ideological role within the Nazi regime. Images such as this were produced to reinforce the cult of leadership and unity central to National Socialist propaganda. His later flight to Scotland in 1941, in an attempt to negotiate peace with Britain, resulted in his imprisonment for the remainder of World War II.

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

• Location: Obersalzberg / Berchtesgaden

• Size: approx. 9 × 6 cm

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

Historical Context

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

Collector’s Note

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

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

• Date: ca. 1942–1943

• Size: approx. 9 × 6.5 cm

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

Historical Context

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

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

Collector’s Note

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

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

Original wartime German press photograph showing Wehrmacht "Grossdeutschland" signal troops (“Störungssucher”) repairing damaged telephone lines at the front. The caption describes two men venturing from cover, tracing the wire by hand to locate the break in communications — an essential yet dangerous task on the battlefield.

Reverse caption reads:

“Störungssucher unterwegs! Zwei Störungssucher laufen aus der Deckung und suchen – immer die Hand am Draht – die gestörte Stelle.”
(Line repairmen on the move! Two signalmen leave cover, searching with their hands along the wire to find the damaged section.)

• Date: March 1944

• Photographer / PK Unit: Kriegsberichter Scheerer (Wb)

• Caption Code: L 2740 Wb EM

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

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: Excellent – full typed caption slip intact, light toning and handling consistent with wartime origin.

Historical Context

Signal and communication troops were vital to maintaining command and control across the front lines. During heavy bombardments, communication lines were frequently severed, forcing these men — often under fire — to move across open terrain to restore links. This photograph captures that dangerous but often overlooked aspect of Wehrmacht field operations.

Collector’s Note

An authentic Weltbild press photograph illustrating the crucial role of Nachrichtentruppe (signal troops) in maintaining battlefield communication. Complete with original caption and agency mark, this is an excellent addition for collectors of Eastern Front, field operations, and propaganda photography.

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

Reverse caption reads:

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

• Caption Code: 65137

• Date: 20 July 1944

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

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

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

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

Historical Context

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

Collector’s Note

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

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

Reverse caption reads:

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

• Caption Code: 65180

• Date: 21 July 1944

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

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

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

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

Historical Context

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

Collector’s Note

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

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

Reverse caption reads:

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

• Caption Code: 65126

• Date: 19 July 1944

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

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

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

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

Historical Context

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

Collector’s Note

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

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

The typed caption on reverse reads:

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

• Caption Code: 65025

• Date: 8 July 1944

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

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

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

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

Historical Context

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

Collector’s Note

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

Original Propaganda Photograph – Knight’s Cross Schnellboot Commander Oberleutnant zur See Kurt Fimmen

• Subject: Oberleutnant zur See Kurt Fimmen (1911–2001), commander of Schnellboot S-26, holder of the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes (Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross).

  • Depicted as the Knight’s Cross–decorated commander of a Schnellboot formation, highlighted in propaganda under the caption „Schnellboote voran“.

• Unit: 1. Schnellbootsflottille

• Award: Knight’s Cross on 14 August 1940, for leadership and successes with Schnellboot S-26.

• Caption Reference: No. 5614/6

• Date/Reporter: Blitz-Attl., 12 September 1940 / Kriegsberichter Ortling

• Agency Stamp: Franz A. Schostal (Vienna) verso

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: As seen (handling traces and age wear, agency stamp on reverse)

Historical Note:
Kurt Fimmen, born 4 May 1911 in Wittenberge, Brandenburg, was a distinguished Schnellboot commander during WWII. He received the Knight’s Cross in August 1940 for his aggressive and successful leadership of S 26 in the English Channel. Postwar, he was held as a POW from May to August 1945, later living in Nordhorn, Lower Saxony, where he died in 2001. Propaganda photographs like this underlined the daring image of Schnellboot crews and their commanders, who were often celebrated as naval heroes.

Original Propaganda Photo of Adolf Hitler in conference with senior Wehrmacht officers, gathered over a large campaign map.

• Identified figures (from left, above the map):

  • Generalfeldmarschall Erich von Manstein

  • Generaloberst Richard Ruoff

  • Adolf Hitler

  • Generaloberst Kurt Zeitzler (Chief of the General Staff of the Army)

  • Generalfeldmarschall Ewald von Kleist

• Date: March 1943

• Type: Original German propaganda press photo

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: As seen (minor handling marks consistent with age)

Historical Context:
This photograph was taken during a pivotal period following the defeat at Stalingrad (February 1943) and the subsequent German attempts to stabilize the Eastern Front. The presence of both Manstein and Kleist — key commanders in Army Group South — underscores the strategic importance of this meeting. Zeitzler, as Chief of the General Staff, was one of Hitler’s closest military advisors during this stage of the war.

Original Propaganda Photograph – Generalfeldmarschall Kesselring Visits a Fighter Wing in the East

• Subject: Generalfeldmarschall Albert Kesselring visiting a Jagdgeschwader (fighter wing) on the Eastern Front.

• Content: Part of a photo series (5 images). This particular image (No. 4) shows Kesselring using a large overview map to explain the strategic situation, giving an overview of developments and the operational details of the Geschwader’s area of operations.

• Photographer/Reporter: Sdf. Spieth

• Archive Reference: Nr. 1316/32a

• Unit: Lw. K.B. Komp. (mot.) 3

• Date/Period: Second World War, Eastern Front

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: As seen (minor handling and age traces)

Historical Note:
General Albert Kesselring (1885–1960) was one of the Wehrmacht’s most prominent field marshals, active both in the East and later as commander-in-chief in the Mediterranean theater. Propaganda photographs such as this were intended to highlight senior leadership involvement at the front and emphasize the Luftwaffe’s strategic role.

Extensive original photo grouping from the estate of Major Herbert Ihlefeld, highly decorated Luftwaffe ace and recipient of the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords. The grouping consists of 104 photographs in total.

The grouping includes:

• Two (1 wartime, 1 postwar) signed photos/postcards of Herbert Ihlefeld. Also one stamped card.

• Numerous photos of downed or operational aircraft, both RAF and Luftwaffe.

• Rare images of other Knight’s Cross holders, including:

  • Heinz “Pritzl” Bär (1913–1957) – fighter ace with 220 confirmed aerial victories, recipient of the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords.

  • Adolf Galland (1912–1996) – legendary fighter ace with 104 victories, Inspector of Fighters, and one of the most famous Luftwaffe leaders, decorated with the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds.

  • Werner Mölders (1913–1941) – pioneer of modern fighter tactics, first pilot in history to achieve over 100 aerial victories, commander of Jagdgeschwader 51 “Mölders”, and recipient of the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds.

• Scenes from Africa and Greece, frontline airfields, and operational settings.

• Only a handful of sightseeing or casual photos – the focus is clearly on combat operations and decorated personnel.

Historical Background

Herbert Ihlefeld (1914–1995) achieved 122 aerial victories, making him one of the Luftwaffe’s leading fighter aces. He was awarded the Knight’s Cross in 1940, the Oak Leaves in 1941, and the Swords in 1942 for his exceptional record as both pilot and leader. Ihlefeld later commanded several fighter units, including jet formations, and rose to the rank of Oberst.

The inclusion of other highly decorated Luftwaffe aces like Galland, Bär, and Mölders enhances the grouping’s significance, connecting it to some of the most prominent and influential personalities of the German fighter arm.

Collector’s Note

This is an exceptionally large and historically rich grouping, notable for its signed Ihlefeld photographs, extensive combat-related imagery, and photos of multiple Ritterkreuzträger. The combination of operational aircraft, downed planes, and high-ranking Luftwaffe personalities makes this an outstanding research and display set.

Groupings of this size and quality, especially with autographs and appearances of major Luftwaffe aces such as Ihlefeld, Galland, Bär, and Mölders, are very scarce and highly sought after by collectors of WWII aviation history, Knight’s Cross recipients, and Luftwaffe memorabilia.