Der Rittmeister Militaria LLC, Imperial German Merchandise, Page 14: Imperial German Air Service Nr 1: Artifacts, Personality Items, Groupings, Shoulder Boards, etc., Updated 7 May 2008. Contact us @: rittmeister@earthlink.net

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The Books, art, and associated items of Jack D. Hunter the author of
"The Blue Max."

Jack Hunter is an old and dear friend of ours. He has had his "own" page on our Web Site from its inception in 1996.  His world-famous, best-seller, "The Blue Max," hit the market in 1964 and was a huge inspiration for me.  It fueled what became a life-long interest in the Great War in general, and its War in the Air in particular.

Jack is now a spry eighty-five years young and has decided to liquidate his collection of books, art, (he is an extraordinary artist) artifacts, etc. He has entrusted Der Rittmeister Militaria to assist him in the orderly sale of his collection. We were touched and honored that he is allowing us to do so.

In the coming weeks we will share with you many truly exciting items. I have seen many while visiting with Jack in the past.  I know you will be as impressed with what he has to offer as I was. For our first week, we are offering two editions of his ground-breaking novel, "The Blue Max."

"The Blue Max" is the first of SIXTEEN books Jack wrote over a span of five decades. I remember him telling me how he wrote "The Blue Max" at a small desk in his bedroom.  For seven months, he'd write each night after a full day's work at Du Pont, scribbling long-hand with a pencil on a legal pad because his typewriter was too noisy and kept the wife and kids awake.  What sustained him was the awareness that never had there been published a serious, definitive novel about World War I aviation from the German point of view -- even in German.  This fact, plus Jack's intimate knowledge of World War I aircraft and Germany and the German people, gave him the temerity to try to fill this literary and historical gap.   All the way he was cheered on by his beloved wife, Tommy (they've been married for sixty-two years).

In 1963 E. P. Dutton, the New York publishing house, agreed to publish "The Blue Max." Its first day of publication was 16 March 1964. Dutton ordered 5,000 copies printed in that 1st edition, then the standard order for an unknown author.  Within two weeks of publication however, Darryl Zanuck, chief of 20th Century Fox, personally acquired the rights to make a major motion picture of the work.  To capitalize on this, Dutton immediately authorized Bantam Books to issue the novel as a paperback - and the work ultimately became an INTERNATIONAL best-seller, with more than a MILLION copies produced in all  major languages, in hard and soft cover and audio.

Meanwhile the 5,000 Dutton 1st editions disappeared, and seldom reappear on the market. They are very expensive.  (I am embarrassed to admit what I paid for mine some ten years ago) and VERY difficult to find!  So, dear readers, sit back and watch this space in the coming weeks as we offer items that come DIRECTLY from Jack D. Hunter. We also encourage you to go to the Jack D. Hunter Page (click here) and learn more about this interesting man [and good friend].  

12-500  "THE BLUE MAX"  by JACK D. HUNTER - SOFT COVER COMMEMORATIVE EDITION FEATURING SIX JACK HUNTER ILLUSTRATIONS. When "The Blue Max" was released by E. P. Dutton, a mere 5,000 copies were produced.  This was fairly standard for an unknown (and previously unpublished) author.  Well, talk about lightning striking!   Shortly after the book was published (TWO weeks after, to be precise) the chief of 20th Century Fox, Darryl Zanuck, bought the book's movie rights.  20th Century Fox was known in Hollywood for its blockbuster epics. Zanuck had just completed The Longest Day, which included a large cast of many of Hollywood's greatest stars (John Wayne, Henry Fonda, Robert Mitchum, etc.).  He was thirsting for a new property in which he could again showcase the "Fox" way of making a big movie.  "The Blue Max": the movie, starred George Peppard, James Mason, and Ursula Andress. (The latter created movie magic with the strategic placement of a bath towel and gave young boys everywhere heady dreams about  what glories lay UNDER the towel.  Certainly a 16-year-old boy in Tampa, FL in 1966 was mighty intrigued)!   The movie was a box-office hit, and Jack Hunter's writing career was successfully launched.
Mr. Hunter authorized a special commemorative edition of "The Blue Max in" 1998 by Middle Atlantic Press. This edition is a high-quality, soft cover oversized book.  Mr. Hunter drew six illustrations that highlight the action just for this edition.  The book's cover features the Orden Pour le Mérite ("Blue Max") of Hauptmann Eduard Ritter von Schleich (which remains in my collection and is one my most prized pieces).  [Like Bruno Stachel, "The Blue Max's" "hero," von Schleich was known for flying a black Fokker D. VII in combat.   Von Schleich's nickname was "The Black Knight of Germany," because he had also previously flown a black Albatros D. Va, which honored a friend and fellow pilot who had been killed in action].  The black airplane was not a part of the motion picture, which is a shame.  Acquiring a Fokker D. VII was an important part of the ruthlessness and brutality of Stachel's character.  This side of Stachel was toned down greatly in the movie to make him more likeable. In the book Stachel was an alcoholic who would let nothing stand in the way of his ambitions, and to ultimately win the "Blue Max."
These books are long out-of-print and greatly prized by collectors. Today, we are offering you one for $40.00 unsigned or $60.00 signed by Mr. Hunter. This is a rare opportunity to acquire the second-best edition of "The Blue Max" AFTER the rare, and highly-desirable, 1st edition, hardback.    

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THE ART OF JACK HUNTER

 

To acquire an original piece of work from a noted artist is an exquisite pleasure. Mr. Hunter's works are displayed in public and private collections worldwide. When you purchase one of his works, it is accompanied by Mr. Hunter’s personal letter of provenance confirming its authenticity, and a brief description of the painting’s action. I have several pieces of Mr. Hunter’s work in my personal collection. I gaze at them daily with as much admiration and pride as I did when he first sent them to me.

Most of Mr. Hunter’s paintings are done in mixed, water-based media on illustration board and measure 15 by 20 inches. In addition to the caption and letter of provenance, he personally signs each painting. This is another assurance that you have a Hunter original!

Interestingly, when Mr. Hunter sold his first novel, "The Blue Max," to E. P. Dutton, the deal included the sale of his first painting. Since it was the first novel of an unknown author, Dutton set a press run of only 5,000 copies. They provided no budget for a full-color dust jacket by a commercial artist, which meant it would be launched with a simple black-and-white jacket. When informed of this Mr. Hunter, then a total novice, told the publisher he would paint a jacket illustration for free. With only paper and ink to lose, the publisher agreed. Thus, Jack Hunter not only sold his first novel but also, in effect, his first painting.

Der Rittmeister offers existing, noncommissioned examples of his work. On a limited basis, Mr. Hunter will accept your commission. You may request a specific subject: i.e., your favorite aircraft doing its thing, an historical event in aviation history, or a certain incident involving your favorite flier. (Such commissions require a non-refundable deposit.)

Now, you too have an opportunity to own an original painting from this very talented author and artist. Sit back for the next several weeks and watch this space to enjoy our presentation of Jack. D. Hunter’s artworks!

[Under copyright law, when Mr. Hunter creates an original piece of art, he retains ownership of the work. This means when you buy one of his paintings you may reproduce it and sell copies of it only with his written permission and with a written agreement to pay him a royalty on each sale. On the other hand, because he retains ownership, he is free to sell signed, limited edition prints of your picture. This, of course, works to your advantage as well. Not only do you have sole possession of the original painting in perpetuity, you also have a piece whose value is enhanced by its wide distribution and consequent recognition. If you later decide to sell the work, the fact that a limited edition exists enables you to ask a higher price than that which you paid. The right of sole perpetual possession of the original then passes on to the purchaser, who then is required to keep the artist’s ownership and commercial interests intact.

Remember, even if prints of an original are sold, the original is yours alone to possess and enjoy].

 

16-210 XJDH "WHO WON WHAT HERE, CAP N?" - COLOR WORK STUDY - JACK D. HUNTER. This is what Jack Hunter refers to as a "Color Work Study." He usually does these on scrap illustration board. They are, in fact, a prelude to a full-sized painting. This is a study of a British BE-2, which, in the painting to come, will be shown scouting low over No-Man’s Land. In this study he concentrates on a British BE 2, and suggests the treatment of the barren landscape. In the full-sized painting, he further details the plane and "sophisticates" the background. With the color study, you have a simpler rendition which, when properly framed, makes a wonderful display for your collecting room or elsewhere in your home. $250.00    

 

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16-211 XJDH "NAVIGATING BY RAILROAD" - ORIGINAL PAINTING - JACK D.HUNTER. This original shows a Curtiss Jenny flying close above a back-country freight train. Navigating by railroad tracks was quite common in the early days of aviation’s "Golden Years." This scene took place in the 1920's, as aviation in America was beginning its growth period. $1,195.00    

 

 

 

 

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16-221 XJDH "SCHOOL’S OUT." ORIGINAL PAINTING - JACK D. HUNTER. War over, many U.S. Air Service pilots bought surplus JN-4 "Jennies" for a few dollars apiece and "barnstormed" the country, stunting at air shows and, when times were especially lean, offering sightseeing rides for little more than lunch and fuel money. Here a kid has saved up the 50 cents asked for a 10-minute after-school buzz over the Nebraska flatlands. This painting measures 15" x 20" and is done in mixed media. $1,195.00

 

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16-223 XJDH "HIT THE DECK!" ORIGINAL PAINTING - JACK D. HUNTER. The pilot of a British BE-2 observation craft, a clumsy, poorly gunned machine, applies the only tactic giving him the best chance of surviving the attack of the much-feared German Fokker "Eindekker" -- dropping to ground level and hedgehopping his way to the safety of Allied territory. This painting measures 15" x 20" and is done in mixed media. $1,195.00

 

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16-225 XJDH "BOMBS AWAY!" ORIGINAL PAINTING - JACK D. HUNTER. The rear gunner of a German Halberstadt ground-support plane concentrates on dropping a stick of small bombs on an Allied supply road choked with ammo wagons and trucks. He will be rudely awakened in a moment when an approaching American Spad 13 riddles him with broadside machine-gun bursts. This painting measures 15" x 20" and is done in mixed media. $1,195.00

 

 

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Documents & Groupings

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19-82 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH AND AUTOGRAPH OF RITTMEISTER MANFRED FREIHERR von RICHTHOFEN. Arguably the single most important autograph coveted by collectors would be that of Rittmeister Manfred Freiherr von Richthofen. The legendary "Red Baron" ("Der Rote Kampfflieger" to the Germans) came to the Imperial German Air Service from the cavalry. He had graduated from military school before the beginning of WW I and had proudly joined an Ulanen Regiment (Ulanen-Regiment Kaiser Alexander III von Rußland (Westpreußisches) Nr 1). Beginning WW I on the Eastern Front, von Richthofen quickly realized that this would not be a war of cavalry charges--of men and their noble steeds facing the enemy, then charging with drawn swords. As the situation rapidly deteriorated to trench warfare, he realized that to charge this enemy he needed a "horse" with wings. Thus he sent a very impertinent letter to his commanding general requesting transfer to the Air Service. After all, he had not joined the cavalry to deliver cheeses! [Pretty cheeky for a young leutnant from the minor nobility in eastern Prussia]. Nevertheless, von Richthofen got his request and received his transfer. Manfred Von Richthofen started his career first as an observer, then wrangled his way into pilot training. His first efforts as a pilot were not exactly successful; he managed to crash his airplane! He did finally pass the course and was assigned to a squadron. At some point after this, Germany’s finest, most successful pilot, Oswald Boelcke, was allowed to institute the first Jagdstaffel. Dubbed Jastas for short, Boelcke’s idea was that single-seater scouts would be assigned to their own squadrons and have the flexibility to prey upon enemy aircraft. They were removed from observation duty (although they did often protect observation planes) and were unleashed on French and British aircraft. Prior to this single-seater planes were assigned to observation squadrons, and on a limited basis the pilots had been allowed to go out and harass enemy planes. Boelcke’s concept went far beyond this. He unleashed "hunting squadrons" on the unprepared enemy. This seems very basic to us but in 1916, barely a decade after the first recorded flight, this was a radical departure from what airplane usage had been prior to that time. Of course this change was heralded by the invention of the "interrupter gear," which allowed machine guns to fire through the blades of a propeller. As Boelcke organized his new squadron, he sought out eager young pilots whom he could mold to this new type of combat. His star pupil was, of course, Manfred von Richthofen. He was even once asked who his best pilot was and who held the greatest promise. Boelcke without a bit of hesitation indicated that it was von Richthofen. Boelcke was killed in a collision with one of his own pilots in October 1916. Von Richthofen witnessed this terrible event where his mentor perished with 40 confirmed victories to his credit. At the time of his death Boelcke had more than DOUBLE the number of his closest contemporary’s kills. Manfred von Richthofen achieved his 16^th victory in January 1917, and was awarded the coveted Pour le Mérite. He was assigned his own Jasta (Jasta 11), which to that point had been an under performing unit. Under his command a quick turnaround soon produced such famous aces as Kurt Wolff, Karl-Emil Schäfer, Karl Allmenröder, Ernst Udet, and Lothar von Richthofen. Such was Manfred von Richthofen’s success that he was given command of the first Fighter Wing, JG 1 (Jagdgeschwader Nr 1). This unit (made up of Jastas 4, 6, 10, and 11) with its brightly colored planes (including Manfred von Richthofen’s red Albatros D. Va and Fokker Dr 1 planes) became the "Flying Circus." Manfred von Richthofen was shot down in July 1917. He narrowly avoided death as he was shot in the head. The reality was that while he took several months to recover he was never the same person. He became morose, brooding and certain that he would not survive the war. He had seen most of the pilots noted above whom he had commanded fall in combat. His flying became erratic. Although he continued to do his duty, this was not the same Manfred von Richthofen of October 1916-July 1917. Finally, in April 1918 he attained his 80^th victory. He was put forward for the award of the Pour le Mérite with Oak Leaves. This was denied and he was instead awarded the Order of the Red Eagle 3^rd Class with Crown and Swords. General Erich von Ludendorff, von Hindenburg’s right arm, scoffed at this denial, saying von Richthofen was worth more than a division for what he did. Finally, on 21 April 1918, what von Richthofen had felt was coming caught up with him. He was shot down while pursuing what he felt was an easy score. Arguments rage to this day whether he was shot down by RAF pilot Roy Brown or Australian machine gunners on the ground. Like his hero Boelcke, who had a squadron named after him on his death (Jasta Boelcke) JG 1 was renamed for Richthofen. It was even carried forward as an elite unit in the Luftwaffe during WW II. Now that we have properly set the stage, today we offer you an original photograph (mounted on postcard stock) of Manfred von Richthofen in a formal parade that contains his autograph. This photograph shows a number of men in formation in stahlhelms before a number of senior officers, including generals. If one looks closely, the second man with a stahlhelm is none other than Manfred von Richthofen. He is wearing his famous Ulanka (tunic for an Ulanen) and on the tunic one can see his Prussian Pilot’s Badge. He is standing ramrod straight at attention. Below him his name can be clearly seen in black ink. The signature is quite clear and distinctive. I do not know at what point in the war this photograph was taken. This item is of particular interest as it is an ORIGINAL photograph, as opposed to one of the popular Sanke Cards that von Richthofen signed in great numbers. A story goes that the adjutant of JG 1 used to go into the country with a stack of the Rittmeister’s signed cards and traded them for food and wine! This is an excellent opportunity to acquire an autograph of the most famous airman of WW I, and one of Germany’s leading military heroes, no matter what era. $3,995.00. . Reduced to $3,495.00!!

 

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14-138 FRAMED PHOTOGRAPH OF MAX IMMELMANN. This is a simply marvelous larger format portrait photograph of Max Immelmann. The photograph measures 7 1/4" x 3 1/4" and is uniquely mounted in a period frame that would have hung from a wall and measures 12" x 8 1/4." The photograph is an original of one of the most popular of the Sanke Cards produced of Immelmann. It has him standing wearing a bayonet, Iron Cross 1^st Class, Prussian Pilot Badge, and a five-place medal bar. He is also holding his visor cap in his hands. This photo was most likely given to a family member or friend as it is signed in black on the obverse: "Max Dez. 1915." This would have been taken the month before he received the PLM. The portrait photograph is placed in the frame in a way that creates a shadow box effect. The frame, as mentioned previously, is a period type and the wood is brown. Between the brown molding and the gilt trim of the shadow box is a brown velvet that adds to the distinctive look of the frame. $2,495.00

 

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16-134 XJB DOCUMENT GROUP TO A PILOT. This grouping is offered on consignment. This is an intriguing document group to a man who served as a pilot and squadron commander during WW I. Included in the grouping are the following documents, all for Hermann Krüger:

Promotion Patent for 2. Rheinisches Feldartilleree-Regiment Nr 23 garrisoned in Coblenz. Krüger was promoted to leutnant on 27 January 1910.

Award document for the 1914 Iron Cross 1^st Class. This is a very ornate, large document, as the award for the Iron Cross 1^st Class came on 21 August 1915, barely a year after the war began. Krüger was the Führer of Feld-Flieger-Abteilung Nr 41. This document was signed and bears the unit stamp of a General der Infantrie (equal to a three-star general in the U.S. Army), who commanded the XXVI. Reserve-Armeekorps. This document has been folded. It has some minor separation where the document has been folded. They have not been repaired.

Award document for the Albert Order Knight’s Cross 1^st Class with Swords. At this time Krüger was a hauptmann and commanded Feld-Flieger-Abteilung Nr 41. The document is dated 10 May 1917. It is signed by the King of Saxony, Friedrich August. This is a very high-level award and a bit unusual, since usually this decoration was awarded in the 2^nd Class.

Document for the award of the Commemorative Pilot’s Badge (often referred to as the Retired Pilot’s Badge). At this time Krüger was assigned as the gruppenführer of Flieger 9. This document is dated 24 February 1918. This is a very rare document. It is personally signed by the commander of the Imperial German Air Service (Der Kommandierende General der Luftstreikräfte), Generalleutnant Ernst von Hoeppner. The document bears his bold signature, along with the rubber stamp for his office and command.

It is difficult to find even one document to a man who was an aviator and squadron commander. To find four of them, with three of the four being for awards and badges, is a real treat. The star of this group is the VERY rare document signed by von Hoeppner. It is challenging enough to find the Pilot’s Badge award document. To unearth one for the even rarer Commemorative Pilot’s Badge, and have it signed by the commander of the Imperial German Air Service is a stunning surprise. $2,495.00 .

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Aviation Related Artifacts

14-175 MESSAGE STREAMER USED FROM A GERMAN AIRPLANE. This is an unusual message streamer. It was flown from German airplanes to deliver written messages to German troops operating on the ground. This item is a red and white cloth that measures 29 1/2" x 8 3/4". There is a long metal-like spike, which gives the streamer some weight as it floats to the ground. The material is in very good condition. $395.00 . .

 

 

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Cigarette Cases and Cigarette Boxes

14-288 AVIATION-RELATED CIGARETTE BOX. This is a metal box measuring 3 1/4" x 5" x 1 1/4." At first glance one would think this box is made of a burled wood. In fact, it has been painted to give it just such an appearance. It is actually metal! Mounted on the lid is the propeller of an airplane. Some leaves are intertwined between the blades of the propeller and the center hub. This device is silver-toned. It looks most handsome affixed to the top of the box. Inside, the box is lined with cedar, which would have been ideal for protecting the freshness of tobacco products. Thus, this box probably was intended to hold cigarettes on the desk of an aviator. I cannot tell if this is wartime production or postwar. It is interesting and reasonably priced. $125.00. . .

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21-47XLD ZEPPELIN CIGARETTE CASE. This is a very high-quality cigarette case that has a full-sized Commemorative Airship Badge on the front. Also on the front of the case are the initials "HS," engraved in the upper left corner. There are some designs engraved into the exterior of the cigarette case. On the catch the case is marked Alpaca, which denotes that the makeup of the case is essentially nickel(German silver). Both elastic keepers in the interior of the case are present. The case has a nice patina to it. Overall, it is in fine condition. $1,050.00

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Aviation-Related Desk Items

24-15 INK BLOTTER MADE FROM A PROPELLER. This is a unique ink blotter that makes an interesting desk piece. The blotter is made of segments of wood from a propeller(I cannot say whether it is British, American, French, or German). The top of it has a hand-carved propeller that measures 5". The top unscrews to allow access to the bottom of the blotter. This way the blotting paper could be removed when it became too soiled. This would look great on your desk. $150.00

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14-256 TABLE MEDAL FOR EAST WEST TRANSATLANTIC FLIGHT 1928. This is an ultra high quality table medal that commemorates the East to West Trans Atlantic Passage. This flight was made by pilots von Hünefeld and Hermann Köhl, who was a WW I PLM winner. The flight took place on 13 April 1928. It was actually more difficult than Charles Lindbergh's’s West to East trip, which, even today, is assisted by favorable tail winds. The reverse of the table medal shows the plane that was used. It also announces that the takeoff point was Bremen. The table medal is manufacturer hallmarked and silver hallmarked for .900 silver on the edge. $250.00 .

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Plates & Tableware

14-293 SOUP BOWL FOR PLM WINNER AND WWII LUFTWAFFE GENERAL ARTHUR LAUMANN. Arthur Laumann was born in 1894. When the war began in August 1914, Laumann volunteered and served in 3. Rheinisches Feld-Artillerie-Regiment Nr 83. (This regiment was newly raised in 1912 and garrisoned in Bonn-Düren). Having spent much of the war at the front, Laumann was finally accepted for pilot training in August 1917. In March 1918 he was posted to FA(A) 265. In May of 1918 he was transferred to single-seater service with Jasta 66. He briefly commanded this jasta as Jastaführer from July-August 1918. He was then honored to be transferred to Jasta 10, which was one of the four squadrons that had been assigned to JG 1 (later known as Jagdgeschwader Nr 1 Freiherr von Richthofen after the death of the famed ace in April 1918) under the initial command of Manfred von Richthofen. {Upon his death in April 1918 von Richthofen was succeeded by his hand-picked replacement, Wilhelm Reinhard. Reinhard was killed while testing aircraft in July 1918. The final commander of JG 1 was none other than Hermann Göring, who remained the commander until the armistice in November 1918. Interestingly prior to the air crash that took the life of Reinhard, the airplane was flown by Göring! Those of you who are fans of The Blue Max by Jack D. Hunter may find this similar to the crash of then Jastaführer Otto Heidemann immediately after Bruno Stachael flew the plane}. Returning to Laumann, after he joined JG 1 in August 1918 he received the 1914 Iron Cross 1^st Class and the Knight’s Cross with Swords of the Hohenzollern House Order in late September. On 25 October 1918 Laumann was awarded one of the last Orden’s Pour le Mérite given to a pilot. It was the last one awarded to a member of JG 1. Laumann finished the war with a total of TWENTY-EIGHT confirmed victories. Laumann rejoined the Luftwaffe in the 1930's and was an early commander of JG 26, which was the most famous of the Luftwaffe fighter wings during WW II. Toward the end of WW II he served as the Air Attache at the German embassies in Greece and Yugoslavia. He died in 1970. This soup bowl is 9 ½" in diameter. The bowl is one of amazing quality. It sports a magnificent gold trim at the edges with a wide band of black. A stylized "L" for Laumann appears on the black in gold. Underneath the bowl is manufacturer hallmarked, but I do not recognize the firm which produced it. This is an important artifact from a well-known WW I fighter pilot and a member of JG 1 during the final months of the Great War. $425.00 . . .

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14-267 BAVARIAN BEER STEIN FOR FELDFLIEGER ABTEILUNG Nr 7. This is an attractive example of a beer stein from one of the early war Bavarian squadrons, Feldflieger Abteilung Nr 7. This stein is quite large. It holds a full litre, compared to most steins and krugs that we see that hold half a litre. This stein stands 11" tall. It has a marvelous exterior topped by a pewter lid. Its thumb opening device features a rampant Bavarian Lion. Engraved on the lid is "Zum Andenken a. s. Kameraden (In Remembrance of our Comrades)." Hand painted on the exterior of the stein is a shield, topped by a crown. It has a propeller through its center. Below that appears the inscription "Bayr. Feld-Flieger=Abt. 7." On the bottom of the stein we see that it was manufactured by Mettlach. Due to the markings on the base it is very likely that this stein was manufactured in the 1920's or 1930's, as opposed to during WW I. It is in excellent condition and shows honest age and wear. $1,350.00

 

 

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14-197 WW I AVIATION PLATES. This is a most unusual set of three plates that features a German biplane in flight. It appears to be an early war observation plane with a two man crew aboard. The plates are white with a blue border around the edge. In the 12 o’clock position appears the airplane with the initials M. F. S. around it. The reverse of each piece indicates that it was manufactured by the firm of Rosenthal from Bavaria. Under that appears "Franz Kreski Bromberg," which may have been the store that sold them, but I am not sure about this. There are three plates in the set, two of them are dinner size plates which are 9 3/4" in diameter. The third is oval shaped and would measure 10 ½" x 6 3/4" at the widest points. The plates are well used (signs of use in the center from meals is evident where forks, knives or spoons were used), but the blue border and the airplane motif are in exceptional condition. I would estimate these plates to be from 1913-1917. A unique aviation item from the war. I would prefer to sell these as a group but would consider selling them individually. Please call or write for a price on an individual piece. $395.00

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Miscellaneous Items

 

14-337 PAIR OF SHOULDER BOARDS FOR A LEUTNANT - IMPERIAL GERMAN AIR SERVICE. This is a pair of leutnant’s shoulder boards from the Imperial German Air Service. Each of these shoulder boards measures 4 1/4" x 2 1/8." They are probably for an overcoat, due to their size. You will also note that they are slip-ons as opposed to sew-ins. Were these for a tunic rather than an overcoat that would make them a bit more unusual, as most junior officers below the rank of major used sew-ins. These are Prussian boards. Each sports a gilt-toned, winged propeller. A red underlay is on each board. A bit of mothing shows on the reverse. They are quite scarce. $650.00  

 

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29-34 SEVEN-PLACE MINIATURE TIE-CHAIN. This is a most unusual and rare seven-place, miniature tie-chain. As we get to the seventh and final piece, you will see what makes this so rare. This is an officer’s-level chain. It is of the highest caliber and condition. Suspended on the chain from left to right are the:

*1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class - Prussia.

*Knight’s Cross with Swords of the Hohenzollern House Order - Prussia.

*War Service Cross 2nd Class - Mecklenburg-Strelitz.

*Duke Carl Eduard Golden Medal - Saxe-Coburg-Gotha.

*War Service Cross 2nd Class - Braunschweig.

*Silver Army Wound Badge.

*Bulgarian Pilot’s Badge!

This is a very wide variety of decorations from several states in Germany. The two stars here are the Knight’s Cross with Swords of the Hohenzollern House Order (HHO), AND even more important, the Bulgarian Pilot’s Badge. The Bulgarian Pilot’s Badge was the rarest of all the WW I pilots’ badges due to the simple fact that its Air Service was VERY small. Some Germans served with them. My guess is that although he was NOT actually a German pilot, perhaps this man might have served as a liaison between the German and Bulgarian forces, and so was awarded a Bulgarian Pilot’s Badge. Of course, he might have been a German pilot and simply not added his German Pilot’s Badge to this ensemble. We really have no way of solving this particular mystery. I can assure you, however, that no more than a handful of Bulgarian Pilot’s Badges were ever produced in miniature, and you will NOT see one combined with the HHO very often, if ever. $1,195.00  

 

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13-594 NAVY LAND PLANE PILOT’S BADGE RING. Over the years I have offered numerous examples of a ring which featured the Prussian Army Pilot Badge. These are delightful rings and which were generally worn by pilots or possibly their sweetheart. They have always been very popular with collectors and when I am lucky enough to find one I buy it immediately to be able to offer to you on these pages. Today we have something that really excited me when I first saw it. It is a ring for a Navy Land Plane Pilot! If you look at our Navy flight badges you will see an example of this badge. One great difference that you will see is that the badges are gilt toned while our ring is silver. There is a fair amount of wear to the high points of the badge (wreath and crown) but the interior detail can still be seen quite easily. The band on the ring is massive and much larger than the Prussian Army Pilot Badge rings. There is a cut out slot on each side between the actual band and the badge. Inside the band we see that this is a VERY high quality ring as it is both manufacturer hallmarked (SL) and .925 silver. This ring is a size 10 1/2. a very rare and desirable ring. $450.00

 

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14-334 PRUSSIAN ARMY PILOT’S BADGE RING. This is one of the ever popular Prussian Army Pilot Badge rings. It has a miniature of the Prussian Army Pilot Badge. There is significant wear to the badge particularly in the area of the wreath, crown, and leaves that were engraved on the band on either side of the badge. The detail to the center of the badge is still legible. The band is slightly misshapen and there is a small crimp to one portion of the band. This rings were generally made from .800 silver as I expect this one was but over time and the taking on and off of the ring that hallmarking is no longer present. The ring is a size 7. This ring is value priced and takes into consideration the significant wear. $225.00

 

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14-319 BAVARIAN AVIATION STICKPIN. This is an unusual, aviation-related, Bavarian stickpin. The badge it is based on generally is portrayed as a mobilization badge used in 1914 before WW I’s beginning. A legitimate Prussian flight badge also employs the same theme. While I have not seen the Bavarian mobilization badge, I feel this stickpin is the same variation. The miniature badge atop the stickpin measures 1" x 1/2." Its Wittelsbach Crown is open and of amazingly high quality. The pin is knurled, which is typical of high-grade stickpins. It is hallmarked on the reverse for the firm Lerch. It is also hallmarked for silber and .950. This is an ultra-high-quality stickpin that I first owned about ten years ago, and recently reacquired it. $475.00

 

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14-323 XJB BAVARIAN FLYERS’ ASSOCIATION BADGE. This is a consignment item. This is a badge for a veteran who was a member of a Bavarian Flyer’s Association. It is very well made and measures 1" x  1 1/2." On the reverse we see that it was manufactured by Deschler of Munich. $295.00

 

 

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39-29 XJB STORK STICK PIN - FAMOUS FRENCH AVIATION FIGHTER SQUADRON. This is a consignment item. This is a first rate stick pin which was made to represent the famous Stork Squadron. It is made of silver. The Stork Squadron was perhaps the most famous of French squadrons and was officially designated Spa 3. It was commanded by the famous French ace Georges Guynemer. He was well known as a fierce competitor who once let a young Ernst Udet off the hook when Udet’s machine guns jammed. Guynemer fell with fifty-three victories to his credit and one of the most beloved of French heroes from WW I. $295.00

 

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14-324 XJB FRENCH MADE WRIST WATCH - U.S. SIGNAL CORPS - U.S. This is a consignment item. It is a very high-quality, French-made watch by Tissot of Paris. This well-known firm produced watches on a private purchase basis for officers in the U.S. Signal Corps. U. S. Aviation flew under the auspices of the U.S. Signal Corps, so the watch probably was once the property of a U.S. aviator. It has a large porcelain dial that measures 1 ½" in diameter. It is in excellent condition. It is marked on the dial for both Tissot and the U. S. Signal Corps. The watch The watch keeps very good time. It has markings for 24 hours. The watch is attached to the original brown leather watch band. This watch is in EXCELLENT condition. $1,495.00

 

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14-317 AVIATION DONATION BADGE. During the Imperial German Period, the German people were very supportive of aviation efforts. Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin turned to the German people for financial support when one of his zeppelins crashed and was destroyed. Zeppelin Spende Tags were quite popular in Germany, and large amounts of money were raised. The same thing was done to help raise money for airplanes.  Today we offer a different variation of an aviation donation medal. The example is made of zinc. It shows an early, two-winged aircraft. The medal measures 1 1/2" in diameter. Attached to the medal is a ribbon with three rows of black, and two of white. On the back of the ribbon a small eyelet is sewn in to allow it to hang from a garment. It is an intriguing variation. $75.00

 

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14-312 CLOCK IN AIRPLANE PROPELLER’S CENTER. Today we offer a rather unusual piece. It is constructed from pieces of a propeller. The main piece is the propeller’s center, including the hub. The main piece measures 15 ½" x 8" x 4 ½." A circular brass disc measures 6 ½" in diameter. Six large bolts appear on the disc. In the center of the disc is a space that measures 2 ½" in diameter. Inside this space a small alarm clock has been installed that measures 2 3/4" in diameter. The central portion of the display rests on four pieces of propeller that have been fashioned into legs. These four legs are in turn attached to the base, which is also a part of a propeller. The stand is 15 ½" x 5 1/4" x 3/4." On the stand, the propeller display is 15 3/4" tall. It is a rather impressive piece. The graining to the various parts of the propeller that have been glued together is quite handsome. The alarm clock does tick when I wind it. I am unable to set it, however. Thus, we must consider this a static display, unless the new owner wants to tinker with the eliciting clock or replace it with another. In a manner of speaking, this might be considered an offshoot of trench art. That said, it is VERY unusual to see such a large piece like this. It is very striking to look at. For you aviation collectors, it is a nifty piece. $1,195.00

 

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14-309 GA PATRIOTIC TRENCH ART BRACELET FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF JASTA Nr 15 - IN THE PRESENTATION CASE. This is a fascinating piece of trench art jewelry. At first glance it appears to be a fairly standard artillery shell driving band bracelet. Upon further examination, we see that it is a part of aviation history. The bracelet’s front has a fairly standard, enamel, 1914 Iron Cross, flanked by laurel leaves. The bracelet has a catch that assists in breaking open the bracelet for easy wearing on the wrist. Once opened, the bracelet sports an engraved panel that says "Jasta 15 28 Sept. 16." 28 September 1916 was the date that Jasta 15 was established. Thus, some man commissioned this bracelet for a loved-one on the home front. Jasta 15 was a Prussian squadron, a fairly early squadron, at that. The best-known of its pilots was Heinrich Gontermann, its Jastaführer, and a PLM-winner with 39 confirmed victories. Other squadron aces were Veltjens (PLM-winner with 35 kills), von Beaulieu-Marconnay (PLM-winner with 25 kills), and von Hantelmann (25 kills). The squadron was a part of JG II. It was responsible for shooting down 150+ airplanes, with the loss of fewer than ten pilots killed. The bracelet comes stored in a rounded presentation case, sporting the name of a jeweler in Karlsruhe. It is a very handsome presentation and remembrance from Jasta 15. $750.00 

 

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14-298 AVIATION-RELATED POCKET KNIFE. This is an interesting pocket knife that measures 3," closed. It is silver-toned. If you look closely on the case, you will see that is, in fact, hallmarked for .800 silver. On the back strap are the initials DFW and a propeller. DFW was a manufacturer of aircraft. I believe that the DFW stands for Deutsche Flieger Werks. Inside, two small knife blades and a pair of small scissors can be found! This was made in Solingen. It is in fine condition, and makes a lovely, little aviation-related memento. $95.00

 

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14-65 1912 AVIATION DONATION DAY MEDAL. In Germany both before and during the war there was a tremendous interest in some of the newer services of the armed forces. This included the zeppelin, submarine, and air services. Count von Zeppelin was always receiving donations from the general public to help finance his efforts, especially when his airships crashed and he needed to start over again. The interest in supporting U-boat development and airplanes was equally as robust. This medal was given in 1912 to people who donated money to the cause. The obverse features an eagle in flight and the reverse has National Flugspende 1912. I have had perhaps two of these in the past, but I have never seen what the ribbon looked like until now. It is quite tattered as it was made of silk with a single large band of white flanked by two smaller black bands. Attached to the top is the original small safety pin which was attached the medal to a person’s clothing. The bronze toned medal is in excellent shape and perhaps if the original ribbon had been made of cotton or something other than silk it would have held up better. A really interesting pre war item of aviation in Germany. $95.00.

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14-49 PATRIOTIC PIN WITH THE FLIEGERTRUPPEN DEVICE. This very long pin is about 4" wide. It has a metal winged propeller as used on officer shoulder boards which has been soldered to a cross piece. A very well made patriotic piece for a wife, sweetheart, etc. $150.00.

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14-196 COIN PURSE WITH AVIATION SCENE. This is a small leather change purse which has a silver scene showing a plane flying over the country side as seen on the Prussian Pilot Badge. In very nice condition. $150.00.

 

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14-260 FRAMED REPRODUCTION OF PRUSSIAN ARMY PILOT BADGE. While I cannot say with certainty when this was produced, this is a framed representation of a Prussian Army Pilot Badge. From the look of the framing, I would say that it is at least 20 years old and possibly even older. The pilot badge, while full size, does not appear to be full depth. I cannot say if it was made from a metal of some sort or if it is possibly a resin casting. It does have pleasant detail and is very attractive. The frame that encloses the pilot badge measures 5 1/4" x 5 1/4." It would be more accurately described as a shadow box arrangement. There are no mounting hooks on the reverse, but that would be easy enough to remedy. It also can stand on its own on a table, desk, or book case. $75.00. .

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39-25 XJB FRENCH AVIATION TUNIC BUTTON. This is a consignment item. It is a button for a French tunic from an aviation unit. It is 1" in diameter and features a winged propeller. $25.00  

 

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39-24 XJB RFC OFFICER’S VISOR CAP. This is a consignment item. This is either a late war or post WW I example of an RFC officer’s visor cap. I am not sure of the actual date during WW I when the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) and the Royal Naval Flying Service (RNAS) were combined to create the Royal Air Corps. The brown gabardine cap is similar in style to the "crusher" type of cap favored by many officers in the Imperial German Air Service. It has a brown chinstrap, with two small RFC buttons holding it in place. In the center is the RFC cap badge. One large moth nip and a couple of much smaller ones (less than a pencil point-sized) appear on the cap’s top. Inside the cap is a well-used leather sweatband bearing the manufacturer’s name. The liner sports the manufacturer’s full name. It was based in London. This is an attractive example. $550.00TP

 

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39-28 XJB IMPERIAL RUSSIAN AIR SERVICE OFFICER’S VISOR CAP. This is a consignment item. It is an officer’s visor cap from the Imperial Russian Air Service. The cap is made of fine gabardine. It features a large, oval, silver, black and red kokarde. The cap also has a black visor. The cap’s exterior is very attractive. One small moth nip appears on the cap’s side. The interior has a lightly-used leather sweatband. The liner bears the impression of the Russian double-headed Eagle. It is marked a size 55, in the metric system. This size is about average. The final touch to the liner is a winged propeller, which confirms that the cap was for an aviation officer. Immediately below that is XIX (19) in Roman numerals. (I am unsure what this indicates). This is a very rare cap. It would make a fine addition to any collection. $750.00   TP

 

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39-08 SHOULDER PATCH - STORK SQUADRON - FRANCE. This is a consignment item. Perhaps the most famous squadron in the French Air Service during WW I was the "Stork Squadron" which was officially designated Spa 3. Many of the top French aces served with the Storks and the best known was its commander Georges Gunemer. Gunemer actually commanded the squadron and at the time of his death he had 53 confirmed victories. To be assigned to this squadron was a real honor. It was similar to being assigned to Jasta 11 with the Germans, 56 Squadron with the British, or the 94th Aero Squadron with the U.S. The diamond-shaped patch measures 3" x 4." A black and red stork has been embroidered on the patch. Four metal hooks are on the reverse where the patch would have been affixed to the tunic. Today in the French Air Force the Storks live on with a squadron using the well known Stork on their aircraft.  It is VERY rare!  $795.00

 

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14-324 XJB FRENCH MADE WRIST WATCH - U.S. SIGNAL CORPS - U.S. This is a consignment item. It is a very high-quality, French-made watch by Tissot of Paris. This well-known firm produced watches on a private purchase basis for officers in the U.S. Signal Corps. U. S. Aviation flew under the auspices of the U.S. Signal Corps, so the watch probably was once the property of a U.S. aviator. It has a large porcelain dial that measures 1 ½" in diameter. It is in excellent condition. It is marked on the dial for both Tissot and the U. S. Signal Corps. The watch The watch keeps very good time. It has markings for 24 hours. The watch is attached to the original brown leather watch band. This watch is in EXCELLENT condition. $1,495.00

 

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39-09 XJB ORIGINAL 2nd ARMY AVIATION PATCH - U.S.A. This is a consignment item. It is an original sleeve patch for a soldier from the U. S. 2nd Army assigned to aviation responsibilities from WW I. I initially identified this as a 2nd Aero Squadron patch which is incorrect. The wearer of this patch would not have been assigned to the Squadron  level but rather had other duties that were aviation related. I thank several helpful readers who pointed this fact out. Having consulted with the owner of this item, I learned that I had misread his description of this item. Sorry for the confusion! While not a 2nd Aero Squadron patch, this is still a very scarce patch. The patch, which is in excellent condition, has a "2" in red and white, with an American roundel. The patch measures 3 1/4" x 2 3/4." $450.00

 

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39-07 XJB 638th AERO SQUADRON PATCH - U.S. This is a squadron patch for the 638th Aero Squadron. T his patch was worn on a tunic sleeve. It measures 3 1/4" x 3." It shows a black cat standing over a "V." A "638" for the squadron is emblazoned over the cat. This squadron was a late arrival to France and saw little action. They were equipped with Spad VII’s. $450.00  

 

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39-20 XJB NEW YORK CITY POLICE RESERVE AVIATOR’S CAP BADGE. U.S.A. This is a consignment item. During the 1920's, the city of New York formed a unit, the New York Police Reserve (NYPR) that was staffed mostly with former Army and Navy aviators. This group of aviators patrolled the harbors and approach areas in an attempt to control smugglers. Many of these smugglers were "Rum-Runners," who brought in alcohol after Prohibition was instituted. The most elite member of the NYPR (in an honorary capacity) was none other than Babe Ruth! Several years ago I offered a police badge and cap badge for the NYPR. Included with the grouping was a photo of the "Babe" in NYPD uniform, wearing the badges of this unit. Today’s offering is a bullion badge with a red, white, and blue shield. Above it is a circular device that measures 1" in diameter. The device features New York City’s Coat-of-Arms, along with the initials "NYPR." On the reverse is a wingnut where this badge would have been mounted to a cap. Very few men were allowed to join this elite unit, and few of these badges survive today. $350.00

 

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