Original wartime photograph titled “Unser Kübel” (“Our Kübel”), showing a group of German Wehrmacht soldiers seated in a Wanderer W23 Kübelwagen (?) on a rural road, with farm buildings in the background. The vehicle, featuring field camouflage and distinctive front grille design, is characteristic of the early-war period.

Printed on period photo paper with scalloped edges and light silvering typical of 1940s prints. Excellent tonal contrast and clear detail; overall very good condition.

A fine and authentic field image depicting one of the less common pre-standardized Kübelwagen types used by German forces during the early stages of WWII.

This is an original vintage photograph, postcard-sized, depicting two unidentified high-ranking officers of the Allgemeine SS in full uniform. The image is sharp and well-composed, showing clear detail of insignia, medals, and uniform features typical of the pre-war SS organization.

Printed on period photographic paper with light age toning and minimal edge wear, this photograph remains in very good condition for its age.

A rare and historically significant image offering insight into SS leadership and uniform variations during the early Third Reich era.

Remarkable and diverse original photograph collection belonging to a Kriegsmarine U-Boat crew member, possibly of the famed U-48, the most successful German submarine of the Second World War. The set comprises 14 period photographs, showing the sailor’s career progression, service aboard a U-Boat, and several earlier images from his Imperial German Navy (WWI) service.

The highlight of the grouping are multiple photographs depicting U-Boat conning tower artwork and crew scenes on deck, including a clearly visible tower painting matching that of U-48 — the “laughing swordfish” motif associated with this legendary vessel. Several photos show officers and enlisted men posing beside the decorated U-Boat hull, along with portraits both in uniform and casual settings.

The remaining images document a rich personal and military history, featuring:

• Crew group portraits taken both at sea and on land

• Tower close-ups and harbor scenes, showing Kriegsmarine flags and deck fittings

• Individual studio portraits in U-Boat dress uniforms, with badges and insignia visible

• Earlier WWI-era naval photos, likely of the same man during his first period of service

Historical Context:
U-48 was commissioned in 1939 and became the most successful submarine of the Second World War, credited with sinking over 50 Allied ships (approximately 306,000 tons) before being scuttled in 1945. The presence of tower art and uniform details consistent with early-war Kriegsmarine U-Boat units strongly suggests these images relate to personnel of this elite vessel or one within its flotilla.

Collector’s Note:
Authentic U-Boat photographs — particularly those showing tower art — are exceptionally rare and highly sought after among Kriegsmarine collectors. This set offers not only identifiable imagery from an early and highly successful U-Boat but also a personalized service record across both World Wars, adding significant historical depth.
The prints are period originals on wartime photographic paper, several with studio stamps or annotations on reverse.

Original postcard-size photograph depicting a Luftwaffe officer wearing the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz), seated at a table sharing a toast with a civilian companion. The officer’s uniform displays additional decorations, including the Pilot’s Badge and ribbon bar, indicating frontline flying service. The relaxed atmosphere and candid composition suggest the image was taken during a moment of rest or post-award celebration.

Historical Context:
The Knight’s Cross was one of the highest military awards of the Third Reich, recognizing exceptional bravery and leadership in combat. Luftwaffe officers who received it were often fighter aces, bomber commanders, or reconnaissance pilots distinguished by extraordinary achievement. Informal portraits like this one, taken outside the official propaganda framework, are comparatively rare, providing insight into the personal side of decorated officers away from the front.

Collector’s Note:
An excellent, high-quality wartime print of a Luftwaffe Knight’s Cross recipient in an intimate setting. While the officer’s identity remains undetermined, the sharp detail and visible decorations make this an appealing piece for collectors specializing in Luftwaffe or Knight’s Cross-related photography. The composition and expression convey a striking human moment amid wartime circumstances.

Condition: Superb contrast and clarity; light handling wear to edges.
Size: Approx. 9 × 14 cm (postcard format).

Two original wartime photographs showing Luftwaffe officers in outdoor settings, posed informally in a wooded area. The left image depicts a group of fighter pilots and officers wearing flight uniforms and service caps, while the right image shows a single officer standing confidently with decorations clearly visible, including the Iron Cross and Pilot’s Badge.

The officer in the middle with RK is Theodor Weißenberger, a celebrated Luftwaffe fighter ace credited with over 200 aerial victories and recipient of the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords. Weißenberger served with Jagdgeschwader 5 (JG 5 “Eismeer”) and later commanded JG 7, Germany’s first operational jet fighter wing.

Historical Context:
Photographs of this type were often taken during unit postings or brief rest periods on northern or Eastern Front airfields. They provide a glimpse into the camaraderie and personality of Luftwaffe officers during the height of aerial operations in the later years of the war. Images featuring high-ranking or decorated pilots are especially valued for their connection to the Luftwaffe’s elite fighter groups and the documentation of their wartime environment.

Collector’s Note:
This is a rare, authentic pair of private photographs attributed to one of Germany’s most noted fighter aces. Such informal wartime portraits offer an invaluable window into the daily life and esprit de corps among Luftwaffe pilots. A desirable addition for collectors of Luftwaffe history, aviation photography, and Knight’s Cross-related material.

Original period photograph of Adolf Hitler, depicting a uniformed figure standing in an open staff car, waving to a crowd during a parade or public appearance. The vehicle appears to be a Mercedes-Benz 770K “Großer Mercedes”, the model commonly used by senior German officials during state events and propaganda tours. The motion blur and spontaneous composition suggest this image was captured by an onlooker or press photographer as the motorcade passed.

Collector’s Note:
This photograph is a striking candid image that captures the dynamic energy of official appearances in the 1930s–1940s. Its sharp depiction of the iconic parade car and blurred backdrop of cheering spectators convey the movement and orchestrated spectacle typical of such events. A valuable piece for historians and collectors studying the visual culture and propaganda mechanics of the period.

Original press photograph showing Dr. Joseph Goebbels during an official inspection or ceremonial review of SA and SS troops, taken during the conference of Reich propagandists (Tagung der Reichspropagandisten) in Berlin on 23 November 1938. Goebbels is seen saluting as he passes a formation of uniformed soldiers standing at attention, accompanied by senior officers and aides.

The verso bears typed and handwritten annotations identifying the event and date, as well as official stamps from the “Deutscher Verlag Bilder-Zentrale”, the central photographic press service of the Nazi state.

Historical Context:
The photograph dates to just weeks after the Kristallnacht pogrom (9–10 November 1938), a period during which Goebbels, as Reich Minister of Propaganda, intensified his control over German media and public messaging. Events such as this propaganda conference were organized to coordinate ideological instruction among regional propaganda leaders and maintain regime unity in the wake of international condemnation of Nazi policies.

Collector’s Note:
This is an authentic Third Reich press photograph issued through official channels, complete with period stamps and handwritten description. Its excellent clarity and provenance from the Deutscher Verlag agency make it a valuable example of early National Socialist propaganda documentation. Such photos were distributed in limited quantities to state-controlled newspapers and magazines for publication.

Condition: Very good; light handling wear and minor creasing.
Size: Approx. 18 × 13 cm.
Verso Markings: “Deutscher Verlag Bilder-Zentrale” press stamps, handwritten event note “Dr. Goebbels vor der Ehrendienstigung bei der Tagung der Reichspropagandisten, 23.11.38.”

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.

Original wartime photograph showing Adolf Hitler during an official event or reception, standing before a prominently decorated government or party building adorned with swastika banners and the Reichsadler emblem. Hitler is seen accompanied by senior Wehrmacht and SS officers, while his official Mercedes staff car waits in the foreground, attended by SS drivers and adjutants.

The image captures the moment of formal greeting and salute exchange, typical of high-level state or military visits in the late 1930s. Several SS officers and uniformed personnel can be seen performing the Hitler salute, emphasizing the ceremonial nature of the occasion.

• Date: ca. 1938–1939

• Location: Likely Berlin or Munich

• Size: Postcardsize

• Condition: Excellent contrast and detail; light handling wear consistent with age; finely preserved original photograph.

Historical Context

Such official receptions were a hallmark of the Nazi leadership’s public appearances, often documented by the Heinrich Hoffmann press agency for propaganda and state archives. Hitler’s personal car, identifiable by its distinct design and SS escort, was frequently photographed during these ceremonial arrivals and departures.

Collector’s Note

A rare and historically important original photograph depicting Adolf Hitler with his official car and SS escort, taken during a pre-war state or party event. Rich in period detail, this is an outstanding addition for collectors of Third Reich leadership imagery, Heinrich Hoffmann press photography, or Führer motorcade documentation.

Original wartime press photograph showing Hans Waldmüller, holder of the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes), serving as a battalion commander in the 12. SS-Panzer-Division “Hitlerjugend” during the fighting in Normandy, July 1944. The reverse bears the original typed German caption:

“Von der Invasionsfront. Im Gefechtsstand des Bataillonskommandeurs. Anglo-amerikanische Luftlandetruppen sind erkannt. Die notwendigen Maßnahmen erfordern schnellste Entschlüsse.”
(From the Invasion Front. In the command post of the battalion commander. Anglo-American airborne troops have been identified. Immediate decisions are required.)

• Date: 26 July 1944

• Photographer / PK Unit: Kriegsberichter Woscidlo (Wb)

• Agency Stamp: Weltbild GmbH (on reverse)

• Caption Code: L 2444 / PK/M

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: Excellent – minor edge wear, fully intact typed caption, clear agency stamp.

Historical Context

Hans Waldmüller (1912–1944) was a decorated officer of the 12. SS-Panzer-Division “Hitlerjugend”, awarded the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes for bravery in battle. During the Normandy campaign, he commanded a battalion within the division, playing a key role in the German defense against Allied landings. After the war, Waldmüller was murdered by resistance members in 1944, adding a tragic coda to his distinguished military career.

Collector’s Note

This is a rare and historically significant photograph, capturing a Knight’s Cross recipient of the elite 12. SS “Hitlerjugend” Division in Normandy during the height of the campaign. With original Weltbild stamp and full caption identifying the scene at the “Invasionsfront,” this piece represents an exceptional addition to any advanced collection of WWII Waffen-SS, Normandy, or Ritterkreuzträger memorabilia.

Original wartime German press photograph taken at the Normandy invasion front, showing German troops performing a rapid barrel change (“Rohrwechsel”) under combat conditions. The concise caption emphasizes speed and efficiency under pressure — a reflection of German propaganda focusing on discipline and technical skill during the desperate defensive battles of June 1944.

Reverse caption reads:

“An der Invasionsfront! Blitzschnell wird ein Rohrwechsel durchgeführt.”
(At the invasion front! A barrel change is carried out at lightning speed.)

• Date: 14 June 1944

• Photographer / PK Unit: Kriegsberichter Arppe (Wb)

• Caption Code: L 2892 Wb Ei

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

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: Excellent – intact typed caption label, minimal age wear, original wartime issue.

Historical Context

Taken in June 1944, shortly after the Allied landings in Normandy, this image documents German front-line maintenance activity amid the intense fighting following D-Day. Rapid gun barrel changes were critical to keeping artillery and anti-tank weapons operational under continuous engagement, particularly as Allied forces pushed inland.

Collector’s Note

An authentic Weltbild press photo from the Normandy invasion period, complete with its original caption. Such succinctly titled photos (“An der Invasionsfront!”) are among the most desirable Normandy press issues, representing the immediacy and tension of the front-line experience. Perfect for collectors of Wehrmacht field operations and propaganda photography.

Original wartime German press photograph showing a Werfer (rocket launcher) battery of the Wehrmacht on the Normandy front, preparing to counter an expected Allied attack. The detailed caption describes how German Nebelwerfer crews took up positions to strike at advancing enemy forces before their offensive began, while Flieger-MG (anti-aircraft machine guns) were positioned to defend the battery against Allied fighter-bombers.

Reverse caption reads:

“Bei einer Werferbatterie. In der Normandie hat sich der Feind zu neuem Angriff bereitgestellt. Eigene Werferbatterien sind in Stellung gegangen, um die feindlichen Kräfte noch vor dem Angriff zu zerschlagen. Flieger-MG werden in Stellung gebracht, um die Feuerstellung vor feindlichen Tieffliegern zu schützen.”
(At a rocket battery. In Normandy, the enemy has prepared for a new attack. Our own rocket batteries have taken up position to smash enemy forces before their assault begins. Anti-aircraft machine guns are set up to protect the launch positions from low-flying enemy aircraft.)

• Date: 22 July 1944

• Photographer / PK Unit: Kriegsberichter Scheck (Wb)

• Caption Code: L 2392 Wb EM

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

• Size: approx. 18 × 13 cm

• Condition: Excellent – original typed caption slip intact, light handling consistent with wartime use.

Historical Context

Taken during the Normandy Campaign, this image documents the deployment of Nebelwerfer rocket batteries, among the most feared German artillery weapons of the war. Their distinctive shrieking sound earned them the Allied nickname “Screaming Meemies.” These batteries were critical in providing heavy fire support and counter-battery fire during the desperate defensive battles of summer 1944.

Collector’s Note

A fine and authentic Weltbild press photo capturing one of the iconic weapons of the German army — the Nebelwerfer. With its complete typed caption and period agency stamp, this photograph offers excellent provenance and is ideal for collectors focused on German artillery, Normandy operations, or WWII propaganda photography.

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.