RARE Photo of RUDOLF HESS during Official Visit – 19 June 1940

Original rare wartime photograph showing Rudolf Hess, Stellvertreter des Führers (Deputy Führer of the NSDAP), during an official visit on 19 June 1940. Hess is seen walking from a building, accompanied by senior SS and Party officers, with children, nuns, and civilians present — suggesting a ceremonial or morale event at a local institution. One officer carries a bouquet of flowers, emphasizing the formal nature of the occasion.

The photograph captures the confident atmosphere in Germany following the armistice with France, during one of Hess’s last major public appearances before his 1941 flight to Scotland.

• Date: 19 June 1940

• 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 NSDAP and was one of Adolf Hitler’s earliest and most trusted associates. In June 1940, following the capitulation of France, Hess took part in numerous public visits and symbolic ceremonies across Germany — moments widely used by the Heinrich Hoffmann press office for propaganda purposes, emphasizing unity and triumph after the campaign in the West.

Collector’s Note

A rare and historically important original photograph of Rudolf Hess, taken during the height of Nazi Germany’s wartime success. Excellent composition and atmosphere, showing Hess in uniform amid civilians and SS personnel. A desirable addition for collectors of Third Reich leadership, Heinrich Hoffmann press photography, and wartime ceremonial imagery.