Der Rittmeister Militaria, LLC. Imperial German Merchandise: Page 13, Imperial German Navy: Documents, Navy Swords & Daggers, Badges, Assorted Memorabilia, Cap Tallies, Books, etc. Updated 7 May 2008. Contact us at: rittmeister@earthlink.net

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Navy Edged Weapons

13-470 GA IMPERIAL GERMAN NAVY DAMASCUS DAGGER. We are pleased to offer a very high-quality Navy Officer’s Damascus blade dagger. A magnificent, open, gilt Hohenzollern Crown is atop the grip. The grip itself is made of sumptuous ivory. I showed this dagger to an advanced collector, and he was most impressed with the dagger’s handle. He was particularly taken by the ivory grip’s toning and texture. The grip is single-wrapped with gilt wire, which is tightly attached to the ivory. Upon removal from the scabbard, the blade’s felt buffer is revealed as present, but with a small nick missing from it. The blade sports the beautifully classic maidenhair Damascus waves. This particular dagger has another anomaly that is noticeable when it is held against the scabbard. The scabbard presents about two and a half inches of extra space at its tip. What this means is that at some point the tip of the dagger was shortened. It is difficult to say if it was due to a repair, since no visual evidence of such a repair is apparent. I will take extra photos of the tip so that you may see and judge this for yourself. The length of the dagger from the tip of the crown to the tip of the blade is 12 3/4." The scabbard is 15" long. This is a very high-caliber dagger at a most reasonable price, especially considering it has a Damascus blade. $3,995.00

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13-404 NAVY OFFICER'S SWORD WITH PORTOPEE, ATTRIBUTED TO AN OFFICER. As a part of our special naval presentation this week we are very pleased to offer a Navy Officer’s Sword. This is a classic naval officer’s sword, measuring 34 1/4" in length from the top of the lionshead to the edge of the drag. This grip appears to be made of walrus tusk, rather than the more commonly-found ivory. Its coloring and toning lead me to that conclusion. I think that this is one of the most striking and interesting aspects of the entire sword. The grip is triple-wire wrapped. The lionshead also does not have glass chips for eyes, just a plain brass finish. This in itself is quite interesting. The sword’s fold-down locking mechanism has the owner’s last name, Haushalter, engraved on it. When I searched through the Naval Rangeliste (a very useful but extremely difficult-to-find reference book), I found the original owner was Bruno Haushalter. He was born on 30 August 1884. Some of the ships he served aboard included: S-18, G-94, and S-137. He served as the Commander of a Flotilla, and was an adjutant of a larger organization that I cannot identify. He retired 21 November 1919 as a Kapitänleutnant. Also attached to the area just below the mouth of the lion is a portopee. It is well-used but complete, and adds a touch of style to the overall presentation. The blade, which measures 28," is engraved. The engraving is somewhat faded from age. The manufacturer’s hallmarking (W K & C) is present on the blade. The leather scabbard is in quite pleasing condition. It has the traditional two leather sections with three brass trim and adornment areas. Two scabbard rings are present. Overall, this is a fine representation of a Navy Officer’s Sword. $1,595.00 .

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07-52 KINDER OR CADET NAVY OFFICERS SWORD. Kinder (child's or children's) Swords or Kinder Sabels are a unique sub-collecting area within Imperial German edged weapons. Members of the nobility who had sons often dressed the youngsters in a variety of uniforms which often were duplicates of their own. Of course with the young boys being much smaller than Papa everything was scaled down, including the swords, and thus we have Kinder Swords. This "downsizing" continued on to items such as pickelhauben and even decorations. The latter evolved into the Prinzengroße (prince-sized) decorations which during WW I were favored by certain members of nobility in items such as Iron Crosses and even flight badges. Having given a bit of background on Kinder Swords, it is time to describe the item being offered here. What we have is a very unique Kinder or young Cadet Navy Officers Sword. It is faithful in most details to its larger counterpart. It has glass eyes in the lionshead and has double folding guards, one of which shows the crowned fouled anchor. The grip appears to be a yellowed enamel as opposed to ivory or walrus tusk and is gilt wire wrapped. There is a chip high on the grip near the lionshead, but it is not detractive to the overall sword. The scabbard is the proper leather and metal. There is a small chain that serves as the hanger from the two loops on the scabbard. The blade is not engraved but that is not uncommon in the smaller swords. It does bear hallmarking from WKC, which I find to be most interesting. The blade shows a fair amount of dirt and could stand a bit of cleaning. The length of the sword from the top of the lion to the tip of the scabbard is about 33". This is the first time that I have seen an example such as this -- it would make a fine companion to a full-sized Navy Sword or Dagger. $895.00

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07-42 MINIATURE KAISERLICHE MARINE OFFICERS SWORD. A very high quality example of the miniature Navy Officers Sword. It features a Lionshead and has the fouled anchor and crown of the Navy. Plain blade and the scabbard has about 50% of its paint which replicates the leather of the full size example. This would make a very nice desk item or perhaps even a letter opener. $375.00

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Navy Uniforms, Headdress, Shoulder boards, Belts, Buckles, etc.

20-173 PERSONAL SHAKO OF KAISER WILHELM II - GENERALFELDMARSCHALL - NAVY SEE-BATTALION - IN FULL PARADE CONFIGURATION - COMPLETE WITH PARADE FEATHERS AND TWO STORAGE BOXES. Today we are offering perhaps the single most important artifact ever in the history of Der Rittmeister Militaria. In our day we have offered many fine articles of headdress, tunics, etc. from Germany’s royals. We even have offered several schirmutzen that once belonged to Kaiser Wilhelm II, but never anything quite like this! Today we are pleased and honored to present his Majesty Kaiser Wilhelm II’s original officer’s shako for the See-Battalion.
As you are well aware, the See-Battalion was attached to the Kaiserliche Marine, much as the U.S. Marine Corps is to the U. S. Navy and the British Royal Marines are to Her Majesty’s Royal Navy. The See-Battalion provided shipboard security for the German Imperial Navy’s larger vessels. They were also charged with providing security at many German embassies and consulates around the world. In China one entire battalion (Battalion Nr 3) was assigned as the embassy’s security force, and as additional military muscle to bolster the area’s other colonial troops. Our premiere offering today is the complete ensemble for the Kaiser’s See-Battalion shako.
The shako’s body consists of superb felt for the body portion, and fine leather for its top, as well as the front and rear visors. The See-Battalion's wappen is absolutely magnificent. It features an eagle with outspread wings. In the middle of its chest is a smaller Hohenzollern Eagle. Clasped in the larger eagle’s talons is an anchor base. Over its head sits a Hohenzollern Crown, with a royal stole streaming out from either side. The wappen is exquisitely frosted. All of its fire gilding remains intact. The shako boasts a glorious pair of chin scales. The final exterior detail is its field badge, handsomely crafted of silver bullion. It sports a red center signifying the Reich. The exterior’s condition is excellent. I believe most would agree with me. It is in mint-minus condition.
The back interior visor is green leather. The sweatband is ultra soft doeskin. It exhibits an extra band of stitching that one only sees on top-of-the-line headdress. (Naturally, one expects this from the Kaiser!) Its liner is made from superior quality silk. It has a much tighter weave than that one normally sees. Again, this was an expensive helmet option, but if you were the Kaiser, expenses be damned! Wilhelm II’s gold Cypher is embossed on the silk liner. The entire interior is in excellent condition, with just a hint of gentle wear. In all likelihood, it was worn very rarely during Wilhelm II’s reign (1888 to 1918).
Some manufacturer’s production markings seem to appear under the liner, as well as the size, "55 1/4." This is around the average hat/helmet size for the period.
Now let us turn to the helmet’s featherbush. The cock feathers are white, red, and black, representing Germany’s national colors. It differs from a Prussian general’s feathers, which are just black and white. This is because the See-Battalion was considered a national force rather than merely a Prussian unit. (The same held true for the Kaiserliche Marine). The very full cock feathers are attached to a special trichter, which slides in behind the field badge. The entire shako takes on an entirely different look when the parade feathers are attached. Accompanying the parade feathers is an officer’s regular horsehair bush. It is a very full and beautifully-shaped. Should you to want to attach the bush, you will need to dismount the feathers. This is because only one of these very special trichters is included. Personally, I cannot imagine why one would wish to do so. The bush comes with the ensemble, however. It will be yours to do with as you wish when you purchase it. Another part of the ensemble is the shako’s and parade feathers’ storage boxes. The shako’s box measures 9" x 11" x 8." The box front displays a special-added label that reads "Seebattalion." Immediately above the unit designation appears Wilhelm II’s similarly Hohenzollern-Crowned Cypher. The box is lined in white silk. The shako rests inside the box, along with the field badge and the extra, horsehair parade bush. Originally, a leather strap secured the top to the box. Only a remnant of the leather strap remains.
The last piece of the presentation is a special, cylindrically-shaped case, which houses the parade feathers when they are not in use. I have seen similar cases in the past, housing generals’ trichters and feathers. Such cases always are far larger and more ornate than boxes holding lower officers’ horsehair trichters. This one has openings on both ends to facilitate removing and replacing the bush. The ends are appropriately marked "Oben (top)" and "Unten (bottom)." The box stands 11 3/4" high. It is 6 3/4" in diameter at the base. Its side displays a similar label to that seen on the shako’s box, identifying it as Kaiser Wilhelm II’s property.
Again, we are extremely excited to share this with you. One often hears the term "museum piece" or "museum grade." This certainly applies here. Any collector fortunate enough to have this in his collection (as I do now), is the caretaker of a truly historic piece. I know many of you will flinch at its price. It is expensive, of that we have no doubt. In comparison, two or three years ago I was offered one of Wilhelm II’s feldgrau tunics and an army general pickelhaube. The price to me would have been €50,000. At today’s prices that would equal $74,000+! [Please allow sufficient time for the attached photographs to load. I believe you will find the wait well worth it]! $42,495.00  

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20-178 UNIFORM-SCHIRMUTZE-PHOTOGRAPH GROUPING - PRINZ HEINRICH von PREUßEN AS GROßADMIRAL - KAISERLICHE MARINE. This is an utterly fantastic grouping that once belonged to Prinz Heinrich von Preußen (1862-1929). We have acquired a number of Heinrich’s (Kaiser Wilhelm II’s younger brother) personal items over the years. They have included complete uniform groupings from Großherzogl. Artilleriekorps 1. Großherzogl. Hess. Feldartillerie-Regiment Nr 25 (where he served as the Regimental Inhaber [Chef]) and 1. Garde-Regiment zu Fuß. He served as a Generaloberst in the rank of Generalfeldmarschall in the latter regiment. In addition we have items of his available for immediate purchase from Füßilier-Regiment Prinz Heinrich von Preußen (Brandenburgisches) Nr 35. The four regiments mentioned above were the Imperial German Army units (two Prussian, one Hessen, and one Bavarian) with which Heinrich was involved, beyond his primary attachment to the Kaiserliche Marine. Even though Heinrich was a high-ranking member of Prussian royalty, he was also a functioning Imperial German Navy commander. During WW I he commanded the Baltic fleet and oversaw action against the Russians. In fact, Heinrich was one of only SIX men to achieve the rank of Großadmiral in the Kaiserliche Marine. The six men included Kaiser Wilhelm II (1901), King Oscar of Sweden (1901), Hans von Koester (1905), Prinz Heinrich (1909), Alfred von Tirpitz (1911), and Hennig von Holtzendorff (1918). The rank of Großadmiral (Grand Admiral) was equivalent to the German Army’s Generalfeldmarschall. In both cases, rank-holders displayed the Generalfeldmarschall/Großadmiral’s crossed batons on their shoulder boards/epaulettes. In the German Army during WW I, approximately twelve to fifteen men held the rank of Generalfeldmarschall.

Our description of the Heinrich grouping follows below.

OFFICER'S SCHIRMUTZE (Visor Cap)

The second part of this grouping is Prinz Heinrich’s officer’s schirmutze. The visor cap’s top is summer white rather, than dark-blue winter. Summer caps are seen less frequently than winter caps. A wide black band on the cap measures 2." In the cap’s center is a beautifully-toned bullion officer’s badge. What catches my attention (in addition to its manifest superiority and luscious patina) is the badge’s Hohenzollern Crown. Seated gloriously atop the badge, it certainly has the look of GOLD. In all probability, it is GOLD, since it exhibits no tarnish whatsoever. The proper chinstrap (and the two small buttons securing it to the cap) is in place. Quite often officers removed the chinstrap and buttons from their schirmutzen. I am very happy to report their presence on our offering.
The cap’s white top is made of gabardine. The tunic is made from the same kind of material as well (although obviously a different color). Some water appears to have stained the top. The white material serves to heightens the effect. Inside the cap is a doeskin sweatband with the high cross stitching only seen on high-quality headdresses. It is another tip-off that the headdress is for royalty or high-ranking nobility. The liner is made of magnificent white silk. The silk liner boasts Prinz Heinrich’s hand-embroidered Hohenzollern Crown and Cypher. It is executed in resplendent, eye-popping gold thread. What makes Heinrich’s headdress so interesting is such dazzling handiwork. An extra white top comes with the visor cap.

This magnificent grouping’s final component is an autographed, framed photograph of Prinz Heinrich in a Großadmiral’s uniform. (Perhaps it is this very tunic. A prince of the realm, however, certainly had more than one tunic)! The photograph depicts Prinz Heinrich seated, in left-faced profile. The dates Prinz Heinrich commanded the Baltic Fleet against the Russians are listed, along with the dedication and signature (in bold black ink). The dates are 2 August 1914 to 24 January 1918. Although his fleet was not as extensive as the one engaged with the British, Heinrich and his commanders were effective against the larger Russian Fleet. Prinz Heinrich is wearing a Pour le Mérite around his throat in the photograph. He also is wearing an extensive ribbon bar on his left breast and a 1914 Iron Cross 2^nd Class ribbon in his lapel’s buttonhole. A Großadmiral’s highly-ornate, gold bullion braid is clearly visible on his sleeve.
The handsome wooden frame boasts an unusual, silver-embossed, royal insignia at its top. A swing away easel on the reverse holds the frame in place on flat surfaces. The frame’s Hamburg production firm also appears on the reverse. The frame measures 11 1/4" x 8½." The photograph within the frame measures 8" x 6 1/4."

Prinz Heinrich was one of Prussia’s most popular royals during Imperial Germany’s waning days. He was rivaled only by his brother, Kaiser Wilhelm II, and his nephew, Kronprinz Wilhelm. He was an very effective commander. This grouping could serve as any Kaiserliche Marine or Imperial German collection’s centerpiece. $28,995.00  

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15-115 DRESS MESS JACKET FOR THE HOHENZOLLERN YACHT CLUB. The Hohenzollern Yacht Club was the most exclusive yacht club in Germany. Its leading members were royalty and/or navy officers. Kaiser Wilhelm II was the principal member of the club, which reflected his intense interest in boats, ships, and yachting. Aside from holding the rank of Großadmiral in the Kaiserliche Marine, the Kaiser was also involved in the activities of the Yacht Club. He even raced yachts in regattas of the club which included the S.M.S. Wunsch. This tunic is very similar to a naval dress tunic in cut and general appearance. The lapels of the tunic have a combination of material and silk trim. The tunic, which is in excellent plus condition, features a double row of five large buttons on the chest and five smaller buttons on each sleeve. Each of these buttons are actually standard navy buttons that feature the fouled anchor and Hohenzollern crown. This tunic is in excellent condition and would be a fine addition to any navy-related collection. You’ll not see one of these every day, and certainly not in this condition. $550.00..

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13-390 NAVY OFFICER TROPENHELM - FOR AN ENGINEER. This week is the first time that we have offered the naval tropenhelm (tropical helmet). This example, along with the one above for Admiral Franz Ritter von Hipper, offer two cases of the headdress worn by naval officers in a tropical climate as opposed to the more customary visor caps (which themselves were issued in summer and winter-weight and color). The example we offer today is for a Navy (Marine) engineering officer. It shares many of the same characteristics of the von Hipper Tropenhelm. The first biggest difference that shows up is a double silver bullion cord extending around the helmet, as opposed to von Hipper’s much wider gilt cord. The second difference is much longer neck extension than von Hipper’s. This helmet also shows its age a bit more than von Hipper’s. The exterior displays some soiling from the passage of time. It looks as though it was worn much more extensively than von Hipper’s. The interior of the helmet again shows more age and wear, but is complete, nevertheless. One can see that the leather sweatband has seen a lot more service than von Hipper’s. Again, all of this relates to honest age and handling. This is a very scarce and difficult-to-find piece. It would make an excellent addition to any headdress or naval collection. $4,495.00. . .

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13-304 NAVY "FORE AND AFT" CAP AND DRESS EPAULETTES IN THE RANK OF KAPITÄNLEUTNANT IN THE STORAGE BOX. This is a very fine example of a "fore & aft" cap for an officer in the Kaiserliche Marine, along with his dress shoulder boards. This is the dress headdress for officers that would have been equivalent to a pickelhaube or busby, etc. for officers in the Army. The storage box is an unusual shape so it can hold the cap in the bottom, as well as the dress shoulder boards at the top. The exterior of the case has seen some extensive wear. It is in far less than perfect condition. However, it is this case that has protected the contents so well over the years. The "fore and aft" cap (Zweispitz) is in superb condition. All of the attachments and accouterments are in fine order. As we peek at the silk liner (which is also pristine), we see a gold embossed "P" displayed. On top of a specially designed platform in the case are the dress epaulettes for a Kapitänleutnant. The epaulettes are massive with twin silver toned pips and an oversized fouled anchor. The top of the epaulettes are gold with a gold fringe which hangs down. This is a very handsome ensemble for you Navy collectors! $2,895.00

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13-435 ENLISTED SAILOR SUMMER MUTZE FOR THE S. M. S. BRESLAU. This is a summer mutze for an enlisted sailor serving aboard the S. M. S. Breslau. The summer mutze is seen far less often than the navy-blue winter mutze. The S. M. S. Breslau had an interesting history. She was a cruiser, built in 1911 as a part of the Magdeburg Cruiser Class. Once WW I began, she was one of two surface vessels in the Kaiserliche Marine that were turned over to the Turkish Navy. The vessels remained crewed by Germans but were under Turkish authority. The S. M. S. Breslau was renamed as the Midili. The mutze is lightweight and unlined. It is in very good condition overall. The cap tally is black silk with gold embossed lettering of the vessel’s name. It’s a great item for you Navy collectors. $695.00

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13-579 XRP ENLISTED SAILOR’S SUMMER MUTZE - 1. MARINE=FLIEGER-ABTEILUNG. This is a consignment item. It is a mutze used during the summer by an enlisted sailor assigned to the 1. Marine=Flieger=Abteilung. The mutze’s top cover is made of white cotton. Attached to that is a single enlisted kokarde. The unit’s cap tally is also attached. It is correctly tied off. The tally’s tails extended from the mutze down the sailor’s back. Please note the additional photos of the Mutze stand which will accompany this Mutze. It was custom designed by our master wood worker and was the prototype for the Mutze stands that we offer today. The size of this stand fits this Mutze perfectly and displays it in a most handsome manner. $1,195.00  

 

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13-605 CAP BADGE - RESERVE OFFICER - KAISERLICHE MARINE. Cap badges for navy officers’ visor caps are never easy-to-find. Finding one for a reserve officer is a real challenge. This week we are offering a fine cap badge for a Reserve Navy officer. Any Navy officer’s cap badge was made of fine gold bullion. This tones attractively and gracefully with age (and exposure to the ocean). Our example is just such a piece. In the center you will note a fairly standard national kokarde, with one small difference. In the center is a cross indicating that the officer was a reservist, rather than a regular naval officer. The number of Navy reserve officers was much lower than in the Army. Thus, this makes for a very scarce cap badge. The reverse of the badge shows honest age. $650.00  

 

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13-552 PAIR OF SHOULDER BOARDS FOR A GENERALMAJOR IN THE NAVY SEE-BATTALION. Prior to the beginning of WW I, the Navy See-Battalion (similar to the U.S. Marines serving as shipboard troops, overseas embassy guards, and an elite infantry unit in China) was a relatively small group. It was formed into three battalions, with one of them (Battalion Nr 3) permanently stationed in China. Once WW I began, the See-Battalion was expanded, along with all other German Navy and Army Forces. The Germans had a substantial group stationed in Flanders, which was then termed Marine-Infantrie. Naval artillery also was stationed there, as well as Marine Jastas, which fought with the Army’s Jastas. [As an aside, Flanders yielded several naval aces, and even a PLM-winner or two]. Even during WWI, the See-Battalions held a relatively small number of men when compared to their Army counterparts, so items from these units are always more difficult-to-find. Today we are offering a pair of Generalmajor’s shoulder boards from the See-Battalion. (Please note that the See-Battalion used Army ranks rather than Navy ranks, just as does the USMC). At first glance, these look like standard German Army Generalmajor’s shoulder boards. If you look at the chevrons on the silver rope, however, and at the white underlay, you can clearly see the difference. The shoulder boards are of the slip-on variety, as was common for officers of this rank. Some pulling and minor separation appears at the top of the two boards, where the tunic’s button would go. The alternating ropes of gold and silver bullion have come loose. Undoubtedly, these are some of the rarest shoulder boards we have ever offered. Even during the height of WW I, relatively few general officers were attached to the See-Battalions. $2,395.00  

13-283 PAIR OF DRESS EPAULETTES FOR A MAJOR IN THE NAVY SEE BATTALION. I was quite taken by these epaulettes when I encountered them during our May trip to Germany. Finding See-Battalion material is always a challenge. There were three See- Battalions assigned to the Kaiserliche Marine (Imperial German Navy). They functioned very much as the U.S. Marine Corps did during that period (and our Marines still do today). They provided onboard ship security for larger German vessels. In addition, they provided land bound security for German colonies or at German embassies overseas. While small in overall numbers, they were considered a very elite organization. The cream of German enlisted men, NCO’s and officers were assigned to the three Battalions. Today, the epaulettes that we offer are for the dress uniform of a major. In the scheme of things, he would have been a battalion commander, or possibly the deputy commander. During the last three to five years, I have developed an intense interest in shoulder boards of the German Empire. Each tells a special story, if only we will take the time to learn it. If we look closely at them, we can date them, tell the unit, learn the rank, etc. Typically, shoulder boards and epaulettes are unique to one regiment. No other regiment would have worn that very shoulder board. Another positive aspect of collecting shoulder boards and epaulettes is that they require relatively little space to house and display many of them. I have seen the value of shoulder boards and epaulettes to be quite strong in recent years. Besides being a marvelous collectible, they hold their value quite well. Dress epaulettes are, in my humble opinion, the real stars of the genre. Commonly called "Banjo Boards," because of their appearance and similarity to the musical instrument, they are often breathtaking. These epaulettes definitely fall into that category! The basic crescent trim of the epaulettes is gilt. It still has an excellent finish and appearance. The background of the epaulettes is what I would term a light gray, or possibly even a blue-gray. On that surface we see a lovely pair of crossed, gilt anchors. Over those crossed anchors, we see a very handsome gilt Hohenzollern Crown. This was key to many naval accouterments. These epaulettes are of pre WW I quality. They are in nearly-mint condition. This is a really exciting find. $2,495.00JK

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13-454 PAIR OF DRESS EPAULETTES FOR AN OBERLEUTNANT zur SEE OF THE KAISERLICHE MARINE IN ORIGINAL STORAGE BOX. Shoulder boards and epaulettes from the Kaiserliche Marine are very hard-to-find. The dress epaulettes or "banjo" shoulder boards are even more so. Add to the mix a pair of epaulettes  that come in their original storage box and you have a very rare example of an epaulette! The examples we are offering today are for an Oberleutnant zur See. An Oberleutnant zur See is equivalent to an Oberleutnant in the German Army, a 1^st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, or a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy. These epaulettes are massive. They display a combination of gold and silver embroidered bullion on the obverse. Each displays a fouled anchor highlighted in the center of a gold field. The anchors have a marvelous patina to them and are quite striking. Each epaulette has the individual fringe-like gold bullion hanging down. Also each epaulette exhibits a gilt button for the Kaiserliche Marine, with anchor and crown. Underneath, the epaulettes have a dark-blue or purple lining, along with the brass attachments that clip them to the tunic. The deluxe storage box is made of black leatherette. Inside is a pedestal on which the epaulettes are tied and mounted. Also, a pillow is cut to the shape of the box and laid over the epaulettes to protect them from any damage. This is a truly stunning pair of epaulettes. $1,250.00 

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13-328 SINGLE SHOULDER BOARD TO A ONE YEAR VOLUNTEER IN NAVY SEE BATTALION Nr 1. This is a very colorful single shoulder board for a One-Year-Volunteer in Navy See Battalion Nr 1. The trim of the board is the national colors of Germany: red, black, and white. A gold Hohenzollern Crown is over crossed anchors. They are, in turn, over the numeral "1" that indicates the 1^st battalion. Some minor shredding appears at the board’s bottom. This is still a scarce shoulder board. It would make a very fine addition to a Navy or shoulder board collection, or even for somebody who is looking for something really different. $235.00

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13-354 BANDOLIER AND CARTRIDGE BOX FOR AN OFFICER IN THE SEE BATTALION. This is a very fine officer’s bandolier and cartridge box from Navy See Battalion Nr III. This is, without a doubt, the most historically significant of the three See Battalions, since it served in China with great distinction. See Battalion Nr III gained its reputation for its long service in China, particularly for its action during the Boxer Rebellion. As I have previously noted, the Navy See Battalions functioned much as the U.S. Marine Corps did at the time (and still does today). Their responsibilities were twofold. Some units served as shipboard security and were available for mobile landings. They also served as security forces in embassies and consulates. It was in the latter role and other military actions that See Battalion Nr III reaped such recognition in China; much as the U.S. "China Marines" did from the turn of the 20^th Century until just before WW II. Anybody who appreciates the rare nature of this item and its amazing condition will recognize how difficult it was to find this set, especially in such matchless condition. The bandolier has an dazzling gold embroidered finish that is nearly flawless. A large gilt-toned buckle secures it. The leather tongue is complete, but does show some wear. This is not surprising given the leather aging process and the use this set received. The bandolier’s inner cotton lining is complete and fresh. No less handsome is the actual cartridge box. The box’s flap is patent leather. The condition of the box is nearly mint, with an almost mirror-like finish. Attached to the cartridge box is a gilt "Kaiser" Crown, the emblem of the See Battalion. This entire arrangement is in superb condition. It is exceedingly RARE! $2,995.00

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13-211 NAVAL DECK OFFICER LEATHER BELT & BUCKLE. A very unique and might I add difficult to find leather belt for a Deck Officer. This would have been used for every day wear and is not of the brocade type which would have been for dress functions. It is complete with a brass belt buckle which features the Cypher of Wilhelm below a Hohenzollern Crown and above an anchor. It also features the hanger for a sword or dagger. There is also another metal hanger on the belt. This belt is 100% complete but the leather could use some attention to prevent any further cracking. This would be a nice touch to a Naval uniform and would allow you to add a sword or dagger to it. Quite nice. $495.00

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13-422 KINDERMUTZE FOR THE KREUZER EMDEN. This is a mutze for a child that is patriotic in nature. The exploits of the cruiser (kreuzer) Emden were well-known to the German people. This small mutze has a cap tally in the front center reading "Kreuzer Emden." This is very presentable. $125.00 .

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Navy Veteran Steins, Canteens,  etc.

13-261 GA NAVY VETERAN'S FLASK. Veteran’s items are always popular, and they are varied, to say the least. In the Army, the more common pieces are: steins, canteens, and pipes. Each of these commemorates the veteran’s service, generally the two years of compulsive service that all German men were expected to do in their late teens or early 20's. In the Navy, the more popular pieces were various drinking vessels, including: steins, flasks, and canteens. Today we offer a very unique flask for a navy veteran. This flask is actually a glass bottle that is covered in leather. It has a black and white cord by which the man could have hung the flask around his neck. On one side of the leather flask we see a gilt-toned Hohenzollern Crown complete with stole, over an anchor with crossed paddles. Just below the anchor is the legend: "1. Werft (Work) Division Kiel." The latter is embossed in silver on the black leather. There is some small loss of leather over the word Werft, but there is no doubt what it was. On the reverse side of the flask are some patriotic phrases regarding his service. A heart-shaped cutout allows you to look into the glass flask to see the sailor’s sweetheart. This is much the same as on a veteran’s stein. There is a lithopane that allows the viewer to hold the stein up to the light and see a sweetheart as well. The top of the flask has a removable jigger. This exposes a screw top that allowed the veteran to access his beverage of choice. Navy items like this are difficult-to-find. This would be a wonderful addition to a navy collection. $450.00

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13-375 NAVY VETERAN'S STEIN. Veteran’s steins are always very popular with collectors. Some of the very elaborate Navy steins can often sell for more than $2,000. When I say elaborate, I mean those that were painted individually for the owner, showing the unit or ship on which he served along with a list of his comrades. This example stands 8" tall. It is 2 3/4" in diameter at the lid and 3 ½" in diameter at the base. The stein is multicolored, with the primary color scheme of white and navy blue. We see two sailors holding Mausers in the front. Immediately behind them is the conning tower of a U-Boat from which a Kriegsflagge is flying. Flanking either sailor are flags, one of which is easily identified as a Kriegsflagge. On the opposite side we can see the turret of a warship with two cannons extending outward. On either side of the turret are two 1914 Iron Crosses. The lid of the stein is flat and made of pewter. It depicts the port at Wilhelmshaven with ships at the piers. The stein is very well made and in excellent condition. If you are looking for a stein, this one is a real bargain for a navy example. It is even more cost effective than some of the army steins that we see. $525.00. . .

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Navy Documents, Paintings, Lithographs, etc.

13-471 AUTOGRAPHED BLACK AND WHITE LITHOGRAPH OF THE COMMANDER OF THE S. M. S. AYESHA, KAPITÄNLEUTNANT HELLMUTH von MÜCKE. This is a splendid lithograph of Kapitänleutnant Hellmuth von Mücke. Von Mücke was the commander of the S. M. S. Ayesha. This vessel was a commerce raider. It had a lot in common with the S. M. S. Seeadler, which was commanded by the well-known Graf von Luckner. Both the Ayesha and the Seeadler were, in fact, sailing ships. This made them extremely special as commerce raiders. Both operated in the Pacific. I have been unable to find detailed information about the S. M. S. Ayesha. The lithograph measures 19 ½" x 12 1/4" and bears von Mücke’s signature in bold black ink. $195.00   Buy this item and the Vivat Ribbon below which are related and save 10%!

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13-476 DOCUMENT FOR SAILOR WHO RECEIVED THE VERDIENSTKREUZ FÜR KRIEGSHILFE. This is an award document for the Verdiensttkreuz für Kriegshilfe (Service Cross for War Aide). This document, which measures 8 1/4" x 6 3/8," was issued to a sailor on 12 April 1920. It bears the stamp of the Reichs -Marine-Amt. It was signed by a representative of der Chef der Admiralität. The document is in very good condition. $95.00   

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13-424 AWARD DOCUMENT FOR NAVAL SPORTING GAMES. Even long after WW I members of the German Navy were firmly convinced of their complete victory at the "Battle of Jutland." The Allied camp called it the "Battle of Jutland," but within Germany it was known as the "Battle of Skagerrak." This is an award document, measuring 12 ½" x 8 ½," from the year 1927. It is for a sporting competition named in honor of the "Battle of Skagerrak." The document is made out to a Fähnrich zur See Lell. He was the victor in a 5 x 100 meter relay. The document was signed by Kapitän zur See von Ditten (a full naval captain, just one step down from an admiral). One wonders what became of young Lell. Also, did von Ditten become an admiral? Questions, questions. $50.00. .

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13-118 NAVY LAND PLANE MILITÄRPAß. The Navy Land Plane Jastas of the Naval Air Service were relatively small and quite elite compared to the Navy Sea Plane arm. These squadrons, which flew in Flanders alongside Army Jastas, produced some of the best fighter pilots of the war. These men were often among those with the highest scores of planes shot down. This Militärpaß was to an enlisted man who served in one of these jastas, most likely as a ground crewman. This man first entered the Navy in June 1917 and was initially assigned to II. Matrosen Division. He survived the war and there are entries as late as 1920 in the Militärpaß. Very difficult to find Militärpaß. $575.00

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13-321 NAVY LONG SERVICE AWARD DOCUMENT. This is an award document for a Long Service Award in the Kaiserliche Marine. It is the 1^st Class award. It represents fifteen years of long service. It is signed by a Käptain zur See in 1920. The document still bears the Kaiserliche Marine unit stamping on it. This is a fine Navy document. $110.00 .

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13-465 NAVY EDITION OF "WELTKRIEG! KRIEGS UND RUHMESBLÄTTER" Nr 48 FROM 1915. This is a mini magazine that was published in 1915. It has only four pages, with photos on all four pages. These salute a number of naval heroes and ships. On the cover is Großadmiral Alfred von Tirpitz, who was the State Minister of the Kaiserliche Marine. In American terms, this would have made him the Secretary of the Navy. While not an active fleet admiral, von Tirpitz was the architect of the modern German Navy, and wielded tremendous power. The second page shows three vessels. First is the S. M. S. Eitel Friedrich, which visited Newport News, VA in 1915. Below that is the S. M. S. Kronprinz Wilhelm, which also visited Newport News that year. The final ship on that page is the S. M. S. Königsberg, which was involved in one of the most amazing stories in German East Africa during the early war years. Page three shows Torpedoboots and U-Boats in action. Page four shows the U-9 and her commander, Kapitänleutnant Otto Weddigen. Weddigen was Germany’s first U-Boat/ Navy hero. In the early days of WW I he sank three English Cruisers in a single afternoon. This is a lovely photographic history of the German Navy during the period of 1914/1915. $75.00 

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Buy two or more of the Navy Lithographs below and receive a 15% discount

13-496 BLACK & WHITE LITHOGRAPH - TORPEDOBOOT IN ACTION. This is a black and white lithograph that has been removed from a book. It measures 9" x 12 1/4." It depicts a torpedoboot in choppy seas. $5.00

 

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13-497 BLACK & WHITE LITHOGRAPH - TROOPS LANDING IN FRANCE. This is a black and white lithograph that has been removed from a book. It measures 12 1/4" x 17 3/4." It comes from an original work by Professor Willy Stower. Stower was perhaps the best-known of the WW I German naval artists. This work was done in August 1914, immediately after the declaration of war. It shows English troops landing in France. $10.00  

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13-458 FULL COLOR PLATE OF SEA BATTLE. This is a full-color plate that has been removed from a book. It shows a number of German ships in a battle from 26 April 1916. This is from an original painting by Professor Hans Bohrdt. It would be great for framing, matting, or display on its own. It measures 12 1/4" x 9." $15.00 

 

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13-459 BLACK AND WHITE PLATE OF GERMAN FORCES AT BATTLE OF DOGGERBANK. This is a black and white plate from a book that shows the Battle of Doggerbank. Doggerbank is to the right of England’s coast. It preceded the Battle of Jutland. Admiral Franz von Hipper commanded the German forces in this engagement. It is from an original painting by noted naval artist Willy Stower. It would be great for framing, matting, or display on its own. It measures 12 1/4" x 9." $15.00 

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13-488 BLACK AND WHITE LITHOGRAPH - S. M. S. EMDEN. This is a black and white lithograph of the S. M. S. Emden that has been removed from a book. The small cruiser gained great fame early in the war. This shows her in action against the enemy. The lithograph comes from an original work by the noted naval artist Professor Hans Bohrdt. It measures 12 1/4" x 17 3/4." $15.00

Navy Flags, Badges, Patches, etc.

13-462  U-BOAT BADGE IN THE ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE. This is a consignment piece. It is a high-quality cliche (stamped) U-Boat Badge. The badge has an excellent gilt finish, and a horizontal pin on the reverse. The badge comes in a presentation case. $895.00  Reduced to $795.00!!
 

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13-371 GA NAVY VETERANS ASSOCIATION BADGE FOR EHRENWART IN THE ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE. This is a cased example of the Ehrenwart for the Deutscher Flotten-Verien. The presentation case measures 3 3/4" x 2 1/8." The pin sports a silver-toned Hohenzollern Crown to which is attached a red, black, and white ribbon. The ribbon is in turn attached to a gilt-toned anchor. In the center of the anchor is a very elaborate multicolored, enameled decoration for the association. It is beautifully crafted and of the highest quality. The case is in very good condition. The case has a beige leatherette exterior. Inside, a crème-colored silk upper liner displays the legend: "Ehrenwart * Deutscher Flotten-Verien." The lower half of the case where the badge is nestled is black velvet. $375.00 . .
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13-450 NAVY VETERAN’S BADGE. This is an interesting Navy veteran’s badge, done in an oversized, gathered-ribbon design. In fact, it sports two layers of gathered ribbon. The latter is blue and white. The badge measures 2" in diameter. In the center of the ribbon is a silvered anchor with a flag attached. On the flag it reads "Schiffer-Brüderschaft Werben-Elbe." On the reverse, it is stamped for a firm in Hamburg. This may well be a civil piece as opposed to a military. It sure is dandy-looking. $125.00 

 

 

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13-417 SLEEVE OR CAP BADGE FOR THE REICHSMARINE OR MERCHANT MARINE. This is an interesting sleeve or cap badge for either the Reichsmarine (Post WW I) or the Merchant Marine. Mounted on a piece of feldgrau wool measuring 2 ½" x 3" is a gilt-toned fouled anchor flanked by oak leaves. It is in very fine condition. $95.00

 

 

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13-581 NAVY NCO SLEEVE BADGE - PROVISIONS AND SUPPLIES. NCO’s wore a variety of sleeve badges onboard ships. These indicated the rating-type to which they were assigned. This particular sleeve patch is for man assigned to manage the ship’s supplies and provisions. While it was not a combat function such as an assignment to oversee the ship’s cannons or torpedoes, it remained a vital assignment. The badge is oval-shaped. It measures 3 3/4" x 2 3/4." It sports a brass anchor attached to a black wool background. $250.00  

 

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13-412 RATING PATCH FOR THE WINTER TUNIC OF A NAVY OBER-BOOTSMANNMATT. This is the sleeve-rating-patch for a Ober-Bootsmannsmatt. This would be for a Chief Boatswain’s Mate. This patch is for the winter tunic of this NCO-level sailor. It is in very fine condition. $225.00 .

 

 

 

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13-414 RATING PATCH FOR THE WINTER TUNIC OF A NAVY OBER-SCHREISBERSMAAT. This is the sleeve rating patch for a Ober-Schreibersmatt. This would be for a Chief Clerk’s Mate. This patch is for the winter tunic of this NCO-level sailor. It is in very fine condition. $225.00 . .

 

 

 

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13-409 RATING PATCH FOR THE SUMMER TUNIC OF A NAVY OBER-INGENIEUR APPLIKANT. This is the sleeve-rating-patch for a Ober-Ingenieur-Applikant. This is for a Chief Engineering Cadet or Trainee. This patch is for the summer tunic of this NCO-level sailor. It is in very fine condition. $225.00 . . .

 

 

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13-410 RATING PATCH FOR THE WINTER TUNIC OF A NAVY OBER-INGENIER APPLICANT. This is the sleeve-rating-patch for a Ober-Ingenieur-Applikant. This is for a Chief Engineering Cadet or Trainee. This patch is for the winter tunic of this NCO-level sailor. It is in very fine condition. $225.00 . . .

 

 

 

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13-411 RATING PATCH FOR THE WINTER TUNIC OF A NAVY OBER -SIGNALMAAT. This is the sleeve-rating-patch for a Ober-Signalmaat. This would be for a Chief Signalman’s Mate, and would be equivalent to a Senior Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy. This patch is for the winter tunic of this NCO-level sailor. It is in very fine condition. $250.00 . . .

 

 

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