German Press Photo – Goliath Remote-Controlled Demolition Vehicle, July 1944

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.