Deathcard of U-Boot Crewmember – U-Boot “U-375” (Sunk by British Destroyers)

Original 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:

• Original wartime Sterbebild memorial card.

• Commemorates the ultimate sacrifice of a U-boat crewman.

• Condition: As seen, with period patina and age-related wear.

Historical Context – U-74:

• Type: Type VIIB U-boat, an early but effective design.

• Operations: Served in the Atlantic and later the Mediterranean, supporting Axis naval operations.

• Loss: Destroyed in May 1942 during the intensified Allied anti-submarine campaign in the Mediterranean.

• 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.