Der Rittmeister Militaria, LLC. Imperial German Merchandise: Page 13, Imperial German Navy: Documents, Navy Swords & Daggers, Badges, Uniforms, Navy Headdress (schirmützen, mützen, tropical helmets, shakos, fore and aft caps), shoulder boards, belts and buckles, Assorted Memorabilia, Cap Tallies, Books, etc.         Updated on 2 September 2010. Contact us @:rittmeister@tampabay.rr.com

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Edged Weapons

 

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07-52 KINDER OR CADET NAVY OFFICER 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 OFFICER 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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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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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).  The example we offer today is for a Navy (Marine) engineering officer. The helmet first  has a double silver bullion cord extending around the helmet.  In the center we see a Reich Kokarde. Across the front we also see a complete and original chinstrap. This helmet has a long neck extension. This helmet shows honest age but structurally it remains quite nice as aside from the soiling there are no problems to the material that covers the helmet. The top of the helmet will press down if you place a finger tip on it, but it pops right back up into place and stays in place with no hint of having been able to press it down.  The helmet appears to have been used on a daily basis but in spite of that it was cared for by the owner and those who have owned it over the years. The interior of the helmet again shows age and wear that is consistent with a helmet that has been used on a daily basis. One can see that the leather sweatband has seen normal use. Again, all of this relates to honest age and handling. On the leather sweat band we see the name of the shop that this helmet came from in Bremen. 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 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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33-137 ENLISTED MAN NAVY MUTZE - II. SEEFLIEGER=ABTEILUNG. This is a very high-quality enlisted man’s mutze from the Kaiserliche Marine (Imperial German Navy). It is the dark-blue winter version rather than the white summer mutze. The man served in the aviation unit, II. Seeflieger=Abteilung. The mutze is in fine condition, overall. It shows one small moth nip on the cover’s top, as well as a hint of moth tracking. Attached around its circumference is a cap tally made of black silk. Embossed in silver on the tally’s front is II. Seeflieger=Abteilung II. The cap tally is properly tied to the mutze, which allows the two tails to hang down from the cap’s back. This gives it the name by which it is often referred a "Donald Duck" cap. A single reich’s kokarde appears above the tally, as is correct. The cap’s interior reveals it as a privately-purchased rather than a depot-issued mutze. We see a superior, slightly-used black leather sweatband. The sweatband displays its manufacturer’s name, "Aug. Geiger" and model name, "Taifun-Mutze!" It sports a blue silk liner, which once again displays the manufacturer’s name. The firm had offices in both Kiel and Wilhelmshaven. It is well-put-together mutze for a sailor assigned to an aviation unit. $1,495.00

 

13-579 XRP ENLISTED SAILOR 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. $1,495.00  

 

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13-751 NAVY OFFICER’S CAP BADGE. This is a cap badge as worn on a Navy officer’s schirmutze (visor cap). The badge is made of bullion. It is in fine, burnished, original condition. Bullion will acquire a toning over the years. The cap badge has a beautiful patina. At the cap badge’s top is a fine Hohenzollern Crown. Below that is a reich’s kokarde, which is surrounded by bullion oak leaves, complete with acorns. The badge is mounted on a felt backing with another backing that was attached to the cap. We do not see these cap badges all that often. For that matter we seldom see the actual visor cap! $695.00

 

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13-769 SHOULDER BOARDS - KÄPITAN zur SEE AND FLÜGELADJUTANT TO KAISER WILHELM II. This is a marvelous find, one of the most interesting pairs of Kaiserliche Marine shoulder boards we have ever offered. The shoulder boards are for a Käpitan zur See (equivalent to an Army Oberst), who served as Kaiser Wilhelm II’s Flügeladjutant. A Käpitan zur See in the Kaiserliche Marine serving out at sea usually commanded a battleship or a small-vessel squadron (torpedoboots, U-Boots, destroyers, etc.). A Flügeladjutant served as a Kaiser or other German state ruler’s special aide, who was, in this case, Kaiser Wilhelm II. The shoulder boards measure 4 1/2" x 2" each. They sport the silver bullion braid that is correct for the rank. Black chevrons are woven into the braid. Each shoulder board’s obverse presents a Käpitan zur See’s twin, gilt pips. Between them is Kaiser Wilhelm II’s crowned, gilt royal cypher. Their reverse displays a fine purple felt underlay that confirms their status as naval shoulder boards. Also on the reverse are the straps that allowed them to be attached to a tunic. These shoulder boards are in excellent condition. Their rarity would make them a collection’s centerpiece. $2,495.00

 

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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. $2,395.00AQ

 

13-454 PAIR OF 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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23-247 PAIR OF KAPITÄNLEUTNANT EPAULETTES - ORIGINAL STORAGE BOX. This is pair of Kapitänleutnant’s dress epaulettes for the Kaiserliche Marine’s dress uniform. The epaulettes are very large and impressive. Each of them displays a gold background at the epaulette’s top, on which is mounted a Kapitänleutnant’s silver double pips and a large, silver, fouled naval anchor. In addition, each epaulette features dangling gold braid fringe (ringlets), further confirming the rank. The epaulette’s reverse is lined in dark-blue wool. The wool lining on both epaulettes shows some mothing. A brass clip is anchored into the epaulette’s bottom so that the epaulette can be slipped onto the uniform. The section of the epaulette containing the clip is made of leather. The epaulettes are housed in a very deep storage carton when not mounted to the officer’s uniform. The epaulettes are set on a pedestal in the carton and tied in place so they will not shift during movement. The carton has protected the epaulettes over the many years since the last the last time they were worn. They would make a wonderful addition to any Navy or shoulder board collection. $1,395.00

 

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23-283 PAIR OF EPAULETTES FOR AN OBERSTABSINGENIEUR - KAISERLICHE MARINE. This is a first-rate pair of naval epaulettes. They are for an officer who held the rank of Oberstabsingenieur (staff engineering officer). Each has a black velvet surface on which the engineering officer’s gilt device (an anchor and gear) appears. Flanking the engineering device are two gilt pips. Extending down the sides are a magnificent set of gilt bullion ringlets. Silver bullion tape also extends around each epaulette’s tongue. The epaulette’s end is graced by a small gilt Navy button. Underneath each epaulette we see black velvet and leather holding the brass device that attaches the epaulette to the uniform. These epaulettes are in VERY fine condition! $795.00

 

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13-328 SINGLE SHOULDER STRAP 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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13-211 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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Veteran's Steins - Canteens - etc.

13-261 NAVY VETERAN 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 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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Documents - Paintings -
Lithographs - etc.

 

19-182 XLL FRAMED AUTOGRAPHED MONTAGE - KAPITÄNLEUTNANT OTTO WEDDIGEN. This is a consignment item. Otto Weddigen was the first great hero of the U-Boot service. While many commanders exceeded his tally (such as Immelmann and Boelcke in the Air Service), as the war progressed, nobody caught the public’s imagination like Weddigen. In the war’s second month, within the space of one hour, his tiny boat the U-9 sank three British ships. While one would think an exploit like this would call for the award of the Pour le Mérite, this did not happen because it was so early in the war. Weddigen received the 1914 Iron Crosses 1^st and 2^nd Class. All the officers and men were awarded the EK 2^nd Class. A famous photograph shows Weddigen and his crew together with their newly awarded decorations. A month later, the U-9 sank another British Cruiser. At that time he received the Knight Cross with Swords of the Hohenzollern House Order AND the Orden Pour le Mérite. Weddigen did not live long to enjoy his celebrity. He was transferred from the U-9 to the U-29. In early 1915, his vessel was rammed and sunk by a British Battleship. Perhaps his early loss made his fame greater in Germany. All through the war and after, he remained THE U-Boot hero. It was almost as though he had attained rock star hero status. Today we are offering you a gorgeous framed montage of Weddigen, including his actual signature. To the left we see a color lithograph of Weddigen. He is in uniform and the PLM can be seen at his throat. This measures 8 1/4" x 5." It is pleasingly matted and appears in its own window. Directly across from it is another color lithograph that is the German Naval Academy at Flensburg which Weddigen attended. [I have had the privilege of touring the facility. It remains the academy where all future naval officers begin their careers. They have an amazing museum. It is not open to the public but with the help of a Luftwaffe Oberstleutnant, who attended the academy before switching to the Luftwaffe, I was able to get in. My mouth was watering at what I saw. He showed me a dock area where Kaiser Wilhelm II came to the Marine Academy and the S. M. Y. Hohenzollern tied up]. Below the lithograph is an original photograph of a U-Boot. I cannot say with certainty that it is the U-9, but it is a WW I submarine. Below that is the autograph of Otto Weddigen. It is what is termed a "clipped" autograph. It has been clipped from a letter, a document, etc. It is dated 1913, the year before the war began. The lithograph, photograph and autograph all appear stacked in the same window, which is of equal size 9 1/2" x 6 3/4," to the Weddigen window on the left. The frame is modern day and is a classic gold. The frame measures 15" x 19 1/2" and has the hardware on the reverse to hang it immediately. The frame has a glass cover. [Extra shipping will be required due to the weight, size, and care that will be required to ensure its safe arrival to you]. $995.00 Reduced Price $850.00!!

 

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13-778 OIL PAINTING - U-21 SINKING H.M.S. TRIUMPH. This is a period oil painting that shows the action of U-21 under the command of Kapitänleutnant Otto Hersing (1885-1960). Otto Hersing was a Pour le Mérite-winner who was famed among his fellow U-Boot commanders for sinking English battleships. Under his command the U-21 sank two older English battleships that were shelling Turkish troops at Gallipoli in May 1915. The first ship sunk was the H.M.S. Triumph, built in 1903 and displacing 11,985 tonnes. It was followed shortly by the H. M. S. Majestic, built in 1895 and displacing 14,900 tonnes. For these actions Hersing was invested with the Orden Pour le Mérite on 5 June 1915. The U-21 was launched in October 1913. She was commanded by Hersing from August 1914 to August 1918. During his time of command, the U-21 was responsible for sinking thirty-six merchant vessels and four warships. The painting shows the sinking of the H. M. S. Triumph. The H. M. S. Triumph is flanked by two escort ships. She has just been struck by the U-21's torpedo. The painting has been rendered in oil paint. In the lower left corner is "H.T. 8.82." The painting measures 11 3/4" x 19 1/4." It is enclosed in a simple brown wooden frame. The frame measures 16 1/4" x 23 3/4." The painting has no glass covering. On the reverse is a modern-day tag. It describes the action of the sinking of the H. M. S. Triumph. It mentions the date of the sinking as September 1916. This is inaccurate. The painting, which is quite colorful and shows a lot of action, is ready to hang on your wall. $175.00

 

 

13-756 FRONT PAGE NEWS STORY - U-9 SINKING THREE BRITISH CRUISERS. This is a front page news story from the Dresdner Anzeiger on 23 September 1914. It relates the exploits of Otto Weddigen and the U-9's intrepid crew, who sank three British Cruisers in less than an hour. It was a historic event for the Kaiserliche Marine. Weddigen became Germany’s first WW I naval hero. $125.00

 

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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 ENLISTED MAN 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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13-714 NAVY MILITÄRPAß & MINIATURE CATHOLIC PRAYER BOOK. This is an enlisted sailor’s militärpaß. The man was born in 1888 and first entered the Navy in 1909. He was assigned to the 1. Matrosen-Division. He completed his service in 1911. He was recalled to the Navy on 1. August 1914. We see many entries after that. Apparently, he served aboard the S. M. S. Prinzregent Luitpold. It appears that he was mustered out after WW I in Bremen. The militärpaß is extensively filled out. Included with it is a miniature Roman Catholic prayer book that was prepared for soldiers and sailors where space was at a premium for their personal effects. The small book measures 3” x 2” x 1/2.” It was published in 1916. As noted in the man’s militärpaß he was a Roman Catholic, so the book is probably his. It has many passages that would be of comfort and useful to a man at war. $225.00

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 Navy Lithographs Below
Receive 20% Discount. Buy Five or more and receive a 25% 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

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

Flags - Badges - Patches - etc.

 

13-636 ENLISTED SAILOR’S SLEEVE RATING - ROYAL YACHT - S. M. Y. HOHENZOLLERN. Being selected to serve on the Kaiser’s yacht, the S. M. Y. Hohenzollern, was a real honor. Whether one was an enlisted man, NCO, or officer, being picked to serve on the Kaiser’s yacht was a plum assignment. It was quite common for sailors in the Kaiserliche Marine to display rating patches on their tunic/dress tunics’ sleeves. At a quick glance one could tell if the man was a gunner, an engineer, a signalman, etc. The sailors selected for the S. M. Y. Hohenzollern were authorized to wear a rating patch proudly proclaiming to the world that they personally served the Kaiser aboard his opulent yacht. The patch is oval-shaped and measures 3 3/4" x 3." A Hohenzollern Crown measuring 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" is embroidered in gold on a navy blue background. In looking at this patch, we see two small holes to the Crown’s left. In the patch’s upper left quadrant are three more small holes caused by moths. This is a VERY rare rating patch. I have only seen one other in the past. That one was still mounted to the man’s tunic. We would also direct you to another patch we have available. It is more elaborate and larger. Once again, it is for men who served aboard the S. M. Y. Hohenzollern. It was for the boat crew members who rowed him to other ships or back to land.  Unquestionably, these were the TWO rarest rating patches in the Kaiserliche Marine. $495.00

 

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13-790 NAVY SLEEVE RATING PATCH - MUSICIAN. This is a most interesting sleeve rating patch for an enlisted sailor’s tunic. In the Kaiserliche Marine (as is common in the U.S. Navy to this day), it was standard practice to wear a rating patch on a tunic sleeve. It allowed one to determine what job the sailor performed with a quick glance. This is a rating patch for wear on the winter uniform. The patch is oval-shaped and measures 4" x 3." The background is navy-blue. Embroidered on that in yellow ribbon is a Hohenzollern Crown. This appears above an anchor over which a lyre is superimposed. Thus, our man served as a musician. Larger vessels had ships’ bands and perhaps on certain smaller ships, a bugler was employed (of this I am not certain). It is also possible that a man might have held this rating if assigned to shore duty. At any rate, the patch is in excellent condition. $250.00

 

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13-638 CHEVRON - ONE-YEAR-VOLUNTEER - KAISERLICHE MARINE. This is a One-Year-Volunteer’s arm chevron from the Kaiserliche Marine. As we have chronicled elsewhere, the One-Year-Volunteer (OYV) entered the German military service on a different program from the men doing two-year mandatory service. After most men completed their two-year service, they entered the reserves. They only were called to active service when additional man power was needed. This was the situation, of course, when WW I began. Most reserves were called back to active duty. Returning to the OYV, when entering the military, they essentially paid all of their own expenses. That is, the government did not pay for their equipment (uniforms, headgear, etc.). They were expected to supply their own gear, just as officers did. Since these men provided their own gear, they were allowed a certain amount of latitude in their uniforms and headgear. Men who enlisted in the OYV program were generally from the German middle class or higher. They had more money to spend on their uniforms than say farmers who came into the service. Many OYV’s bought their uniforms and headdress from the same purveyors that the officers did. They were allowed to mimic many officers’ headdress characteristics. For example, they were not allowed to purchase a pickelhaube EXACTLY like an officer’s, but they could get VERY close. At least ONE of the details had to be different from an officer’s. It is common to see a silk liner and officer’s leather liner on an OYV’s pickelhaube. This was one of the extra allowances that OYV’s were allowed to make. They also were allowed to wear a special trim on their shoulder straps that clearly indicated they were an OYV, not a normal enlistee, or even an NCO. I cannot state with authority that Navy OYV’s wore the trim on their shoulder straps. This device, however, serves the same purpose. It was worn on the sleeve. It is "V-shaped." Each arm of the "V" measures 3 1/2." Woven into the patch is a design of red, black, and white. This is the first time that I have run across one. $150.00

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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13-794 STICKPIN - HOHENZOLLERN CROWN - KAISERLICHE MARINE. This is a very high-quality stickpin which boasts the Hohenzollern Crown for the Kaiserliche Marine. The crown and the pin have high-gilt finishes. One might almost think is made of gold. Such is not the case, however, it only has that precious metal’s appearance. It has a knurled pin and is in excellent condition. $195.00

 

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13-371 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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13-417 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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13-446 NAVAL ARTILLERY RATING PATCH FOR ENLISTED MAN IN THE KAISERLICHE MARINE. This is an oval rating patch that was worn on an enlisted man’s uniform sleeve. It has a dark-blue woolen base that is embroidered in yellow with a Hohenzollern Crown, crossed cannons, and an anchor. Some mothing shows on the patch’s upper left. This is not detractive to the patch’s overall presentation. $150.00

 

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13-447 RATING PATCH FOR AN ORDINARY SEAMAN IN THE REICHSMARINE. This is a rating patch for an enlisted sailor in the Reichsmarine, from between the two World Wars. The patch has a blue woolen base, with a fouled anchor embroidered on it in yellow. $50.00

 

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13-777 XLL METAL SLEEVE SHIELD - DRESS UNIFORM - NCO. This is a consignment item from the an advanced Navy enthusiast’s collection. It is a sleeve badge that was worn on a dress tunic’s sleeve (the latter was also known as a "monkey suit"). The badge is oval-shaped and measures 4" x 3 1/4." A metal anchor appears in the center. It is bordered by a decorative metal frame. The badge’s backing is also metal. One can see the many clips to which the assorted pieces were attached. The badge is in very fine condition. $275.00

 

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13-379 LARGE SILVER BUTTONS FOR NAVAL TUNICS. This is the larger version of the tunic buttons for navy uniforms. They measure 1" in diameter and are silver-toned. They display the fouled anchor with the Hohenzollern Crown. This is the correct size to secure the center buttons on a tunic, not the smaller size for sleeves or for attaching shoulder boards. They are marked for different manufacturers. Some are even marked for the Kaiserliche Marine on the reverse. I have about thirteen of them. It has been some time since I have found a small hoard like this. I do not know when I might have them again. There is only ONE button remaining! Get it while you can! $25.00. .

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Miscellaneous

 

25-61 NAVY VETERAN ASSOCIATION - TABLE BANNER. This is one of the most interesting veteran’s table banners that I have encountered. It is especially interesting, because it is for a group of naval veterans from WW I and before. The banner’s stand measures 31" tall. It has a brass base, which is dented. A brass rod also in it extends upward. An extension fits into the rod that extends both vertically and horizontally. The horizontal piece features delicate lattice work on which appears an anchor and a sailing ship. The horizontal piece extends out 12 3/4." All of these pieces disassemble, and take a mere thirty seconds to set up again. Attached to the horizontal piece is the banner. The banner is attached by three extensions that come out of the banner’s top. The banner measures 10 1/2" x 10." It is made of hand-woven silk. One side features the Bavarian group’s name. Twin Eagles appear on panels. Below that a rampant Bavarian Lion appears. We also see the date 1930, which is when it was placed in service. The banner actually was for the ladies auxiliary of the veterans’ group. This side has suffered some running of the silk, which is more correctly termed "shredding." It is very common with silk items. You have to remember that the banner is 78-years-old! The banner’s reverse is even more interesting. It recreates one of WW I’s most famous paintings. It is known as "The Last Man." It depicts a German sailor clinging to his ship’s wreckage and thrusting the kriegsflagge defiantly in the air as a ship steams by in the background. This painting was recreated in postcards, etc. during the war. It proclaimed the German sailors’ fighting spirit, and their service to the Fatherland. The scene is encircled by a life preserver that serves as the frame for the painting’s recreation. In gold on the red life preserver is the legend "Marine-Verein Erlangen." Anchors are on all four corners of the banner. It is a very handsome and interesting banner. It would make a superb display item for any collection. It has loads of eye appeal. $1,395.00

 

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13-606 STATUE/THERMOMETER SALUTING S. M. S. ILTIS. One of our personal favorite ships was the small Kanonenboot S. M. S. Iltis. The S. M. S. Iltis had one of the most interesting and glorious histories of the Kaiserliche Marine’s ships. Although she was small compared to the High Seas Fleet’s mighty battleships, no vessel had a prouder history or was more honored by Kaiser and country. The S. M. S. Iltis was a small patrol vessel assigned to the fleet protecting Germany’s Chinese interests at the turn of the 20th Century. She was swept up in the 1900/1901 Boxer Rebellion, and involved in an action at the Forts at Taku. In spite of severe battle damage to both ship and crew, the German ship prevailed. Upon hearing news of this victory, Kaiser Wilhelm II was so delighted that he decorated the commander of the S. M. S. Iltis, Wilhelm Lans (1861-1947), with the Orden Pour le Mérite (PLM). (Lans later retired from the Navy as an admiral. He remained a German national hero).
The story does not end with Admiral Lans, however. While the Kaiser was very pleased with Lans and the performance of the S. M. S. Iltis’s men, he wanted to do something extra special. The Kaiser presented a PLM to the ship itself! A large version of the PLM was prepared for the vessel and displayed at the jack stand. It is an amazing story. The S. M. S. Iltis first was placed in service in 1898. It was destroyed in September 1914 at Kiautschou shortly after the beginning of WW I, when the Allies took control of Germany’s Chinese colony. [It was during this time that Admiral Graf von Spee lead his East Asian Squadron (of which the S. M. S. Iltis was a part) on an exodus back toward Germany. The voyage led to a German victory over the British fleet off the coast of Chile. Not long afterwards, at the Battle of Falkland Island, Graf von Spee, his two young sons, and the German Fleet were destroyed in December 1914]. A statue (a smaller replica of which we are offering today) was erected to memorialize the men and the S. M. S. Iltis. The replica stands 15 1/2" high and is 10 1/2" at its widest point. It shows a woman on a ship during a storm. The ship is noted as "La Fortune." On the front is a thermometer which measures temperature in both centigrade and Kelvin scales. Some mercury is in the thermometer, but I do not know how accurate it is in measuring temperature. The statue is made of a base metal, with an intriguing patina. It would make a fine addition to any collection. $695.00  

 

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13-754 DESK LAMP - GERMAN MINELAYER GAUGE. This is a delightful table lamp made from a gauge used aboard a Kaiserliche Marine ship. It is a captivating lamp. I have had it converted from European electric current to U.S. current. It can easily be converted to other currents depending on your specific needs. The lamp stands an impressive 31 1/2" tall from its base to the highest point (not including the shade). I have a shade for it, but I recommend that you get a shade locally to suit your taste and needs. The lamp’s top boasts two sockets for light bulbs. I recommend a very low voltage. (I have been using spiral florescent bulbs).  [Please note: the lamp conversion is from a much earlier period, it is NOT modern-day.  While I cannot guarantee that is was made during WWI, it was probably constructed not long afterward]. The bulb-sockets are attached to a wooden spindle that extends down to the wooden stand holding the gauge. The spindle measures 14 1/2" in height. The wooden stand sporting the gauge measures 10." The gauge itself measures 6" in diameter. I was told by the seller that the gauge came from a minesweeper, but I cannot verify it. The gauge’s face has the following printed on it. The top two lines are in French, and translate as "Steel Mercury Expansion Thermometer. (We cannot translate Rmr.)

"Thermomètre à dilatation

de mercure à l’acier

Rmr.

Schaeffer & Budenberg

Buckau"

All of the above rests on a wooden base measuring 10 X 6" in diameter As previously mentioned, the gauge is embedded in a wooden stand. I cannot see the gauge’s reverse. I cannot see any other visible markings on the gauge. A brass handle is attached to the gauge’s bottom.
The lamp is fully operational. All you need to do is add bulbs, a shade, and plug it in. Then you will have a fabulous lamp for your display room, office, den, etc. I have owned it for more than ten years and used it daily in my office. It is time for it to move along to a new owner. $995.00

 

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13-548 WW II U-29 TIN TOY.  Germany has a tradition among toymakers (even to this date) of producing interesting toys made of tin. Even during time of war they continued to produce toys and even items that were helpful to the German war effort. These toys include but are not limited to ships, automobiles, tanks, zeppelins, etc.  So today we offer a tin U-boat that commemorates  the U-29 from WW II. The U-29 from World War I was famous as Germany's most important U-Boat ace Otto Weddigen laid down his life for the Fatherland in the U-29. He had gained fame in the tiny U-9 by sinking four British warships which lead to his award of the Orden Pour le Mérite. He would be given command of the U-29 in early 1915 and would go down with all hands on 15 March 1915 when she was rammed by a British battleship. A new U-29 was commissioned in 1936 and that U-29 would become one of Germany's most famous U-Boats of WW II. U-29 was a Type VIIA U-Boat and was assigned to 2. Unterseebootsflottile and operated from Wilhelmshaven. Her third commander and her first of WW II was Kaptlt. Otto Schuhart. Under his command the U-29 would sink the first British warship of WW II. This would take place on 17 September (the first month of the conflict) 1939 when the H.M.S. Courageous an aircraft carrier was sent to the bottom of the ocean. Schuhart would eventually be awarded the Knights Cross of the Iron Cross for his efforts. During WW II the U-29 would have a total of seven patrols. She was considered a front line boat until 1941 when she was relegated to a training boat as newer and better equipped U-Boats entered service. She was scuttled in May 1945 as WW II drew to a close. The boat is an impressive 13 3/4" in length. It is 4" tall to the top of the conning tower. It is marked "U-29" on the conning tower. The deck is painted green. It has a deck gun that actually swivels! It has a spot in the conning tower where a key can be inserted to wind up the propeller under the boat. While a key does come with this item, is not original to the U-29. I gave the key a couple of turns and met resistance, so I stopped for fear of causing any additional damage. At this point it is safe to say that the propeller does not operate. It is possible that somebody who purchases this may have greater mechanical abilities than I do and can fix it. You are forewarned, however, that it does NOT operate. I also want to point out that the rudder does turn. The toy’s exterior exhibits honest age. It is clear that it is many decades old. These toys were produced during the period by the well-known German toymaker Bing, and a firm named Arnould. In the past we have offered metal pickelhauben and metal cups produced by Bing during World War I. This is a most interesting item. It would make a wonderful addition to a U-boat collection, as a part of a display about the WW II U-Boat service.  $650.00  

 

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13-613 PADLOCK AND KEY - GERMAN NAVY SHIP. We always enjoy bringing you interesting and unusual items. This item certainly qualifies on both scores. It is a large, heavy brass padlock that was used to secure a locker or door where controlling access was vital. The padlock measures 2 1/2" x 2," and weighs 4.8 oz. It comes with its correct, original key. A serial number appears on it, as well as an "M" for Marine (Navy). It is a fun item. With some imagination, you will discover an interesting way to display it. $395.00

 

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13-721 BRASS SHELL CASING - U-BOAT DECK GUN. This is a brass shell casing of the caliber (8.8cm) and type that was used on German U-Boots. The casing is made of brass and stands 15 1/4" tall. It measures 3 3/4" in diameter at the top, and 4 1/2" in diameter at the bottom. The shell was produced at the massive Karlsruhe munitions works in 1911. If you look carefully, you will see a crowned "M," which indicates it is indeed a Navy-issued shell casing. It would make a great addition to a U-Boot display. The casing weighs 5 pounds. [Due to its extra weight, special shipping charges will be involved. Charges will be based on your location and the type of shipping you prefer]. $495.00

 

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13-722 NAVY DESK PIECE - GIFT - S. M. S. HINDENBURG. This is a naval desk piece that was given as a gift by someone from the S. M. S. HINDENBURG. It is brass and cylindrical, with a hammered brass lid. It was fashioned from a brass cartouche (shell cartridge). Since it was given by someone in the Navy, perhaps the cartridge itself was naval. The desk piece measures 3 1/8" tall (not counting the round knob atop the piece) and 3 3/4" in diameter. A legend around the piece’s top, just beneath the lid, reads "Zur Feuerprobe und EK–Verleihung am 17.11.1917. (In addition to the ordeal by fire and EK - Bestowed on 17.11.1917)." Another legend goes around the bottom, reading "Dem Gesch. -fhr. P. Unna auf S. M. S. Hindenburg. (A gift - fhr. [Is this a possible abbreviation for Freiherr? We do not know. Visitors?] P. Unna from the S. M. S. Hindenburg)." The piece’s brass sides are rifled between the two sayings, revealing the piece’s origins as a cartridge. It’s a fine piece. $295.00

 

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13-788 XJB SPECIAL PRESENTATION DISPLAY - KAPITÄNLEUTNANT WALTER SCHWEIGER - U-20. This is a consignment item which comes from the collection of a very advanced collector. Kapitänleutnant Walter Schweiger (1885-1917) was one of Germany’s top U-Boot commanders. He ranked either 5^th or 6^th concerning total enemy ships sunk. He was awarded the Orden Pour le Mérite. Beyond all that, he is probably most remembered for one historical incident. He was the U-20's commander when she sank the R. M. S. Lusitania on 7 May 1915. This single act enraged people on both sides of the Atlantic. When the Lusitania went down, she took 1,198 people with her, more than one hundred of them Americans. While it was two more years before the U.S. joined the Allies against Germany, its sinking was a key reason public opinion shifted from neutrality to declaring war on Germany. Walter Schweiger joined the Kaiserliche Marine in 1903. He was eighteen. From 1911 on he served on U-Boots. His first command was the U-14. Once WW I began, he commanded the U-20, which was attached to the III. Flotilla. He was an aggressive kapitän who pressed his attacks with great vigor. Often he remained below the surface, firing his torpedoes without warning. [Two forms of attack methodology guided U-Boot commanders. The other school hailed a ship from the surface and examined its papers, evacuating the crew if the ship was an Allied ship or carried the enemy’s war cargo. Then the ship was destroyed by shell fire or torpedoes. Obviously, Schweiger did not conform to this school]! After the Lusitania’s sinking, and all its ensuing political fallout, Schweiger was assigned to the U-88. In September the U-88 struck a mine while under his command. She was lost with all hands. Had Schweiger survived the war, it is likely that the British might have tried him as a war criminal. Today we are offering a special presentation plaque that was prepared and given to Schweiger while he commanded the U-20. The plaque is housed in a simple, period, brown wood frame. The frame measures 11" x 11." It features leather backing and a wire hanger on its reverse. Inside the frame (which contains no glass and was not designed to do so), is a circular bronze display that measures 6 1/2" in diameter. The display is split into quarters. The first quadrant shows the R. M. S. Lusitania in high relief. This quadrant’s edge displays "7 Mai 1915," the date that the U-20 sank the Lusitania. The next quadrant (clockwise) features a ram and the number "97,000." Its edge displays "Le Havre." This probably refers to the ships’ tonnage that Schweiger had sunk so far in his career. (He sank nearly 150,000 tonnes before his death). The next quadrant shows a map of France and England across the English Channel. Its edge is marked "Bordeaux." The final quadrant displays the U-20's deck and conning tower. A small U-20 is depicted on the ship’s side. Its edge reads "S.M. Ubt U-20." It is interesting that the U-20 and the R. M. S. Lusitania face each other at the top. In the circular display’s center is a 1914 Iron Cross that measures 1 1/4" x 1 1/4." The circular display is mounted on a brown velvet matte. At the frame’s bottom is a simple brass plaque which reads:

"Kapitän-Leutnant

Walter Schweiger"

I cannot speculate by whom or exactly when this plaque was presented to Walter Schweiger. Suffice it to say, it is an important piece of history and would make a fine addition to a Navy collection. $1,995.00

 

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13-594 NAVY LAND PLANE PILOT 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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13-485 NAVAL FRAME. This is an interesting, silver-toned frame with a naval motif. It comes in the shape of an anchor, with two oars extending through it to serve as its legs. They also further extend the naval motif. In the center is a circular section that replicates a life preserver, and serves as housing for a photograph. The life preserver measures 4 ½" in diameter. It is 6 3/4" wide and 9 1/4" high, respectively. The photo may be loaded into the frame from the rear, where an easel is attached. It is a very handsome, high quality piece. $250.00

 

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13-394 NAVY SEE BATTALION DESK PIECE. This piece was acquired along with the document holder and photographs described below. The man’s name is Baumeister. He served with See Battalion Nr III in China early in the 20^th Century. The desk piece consists of a wooden plaque measuring 8 7/8" x 9." Affixed to the wooden plaque are several metal implements significant to a man serving in the See Battalion. A crossed pair of oars lean up against a pike. Spread out in front of the oars are a number of tools (pick, shovel, etc.). In the middle of the tools is a fouled anchor. Directly above the anchor and below the oars is an officer’s cap kokarde. This is a touching display to the man’s service. While offered separately. $450.00.

 

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13-482 NAVY DESK PIECE/ASHTRAY. This is an interesting naval desk piece that could have been used as a display or perhaps as an ashtray. It represents a small caliber naval shell, which swivels up and down as the owner wishes. The bottom of the shell shows that it was produced at the major arsenal at Karlsruhe in May 1886, during the reign of Kaiser Wilhelm I. Thus, this shell casing is 120+ years old. It remains in splendid condition. It is mounted on the aforementioned swivel. The swivel in turn is mounted on a brass plate, which is affixed to a wooden base with four screws. The overall base measures 5 1/8" x 3 1/8." It makes an unusual presentation that is in superb condition. $225.00

 

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13-624 NAVY MATROSEN-REGIMENT PATRIOTIC TRENCH ART PIN - ORIGINAL PURCHASE CARD AND PRESENTATION BOX. During WW I, patriotic trench art pins were quite popular. Many of them used driving bands from expended artillery shells. This is a particularly interesting example as it is for a man who served in Navy 2. Matrosen-Regiment during the period of 1914 through1916 as a part of the Marine-Infanterie forces. The gold-toned pin measures 1 1/2." In the pin’s center is a small enamel 1914 Iron Cross with flanking oak leaves and acorns. Atop the pin is a silver-toned bandeau which reads "1914 2. Matrosen-Regiment 1916." The pin is mounted on the original purchase card, which measures 1 1/2" x 2 1/2." The final piece to the ensemble is a cardboard box measuring 1 3/4" x 2 3/4." It holds the entire arrangement. Naval trench art pieces like this are very rare. In my years of collecting I can count the number of Navy pieces on the fingers of one hand, and perhaps have a finger or two left over! $225.00

 

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13-653 GAUGE - UB 59. This is a gauge from UB-59. The UB 59 was a Type-III U-Boot. She was commissioned in August 1917. During her career, she sank a total of seven ships and damaged another two. She made five war patrols during her career. She was attached to Flandern I Flotilla. Her final commander of record was Erwin Waßner (1887-1937), an Oberleutnant zur See. He was an Orden Pour le Mérite winner, which was awarded to him in March 1918 while he commanded UB-59. During the nearly 2 ½ years he commanded U-Boats, Waßner was responsible for sinking EIGHTY-SIX vessels (equal to 150,000 tons). The UB 59 was scuttled on 5 October 1918, when the Germans abandoned Belgian naval operation bases. She was scuttled at Zeebrugge. Her final resting place was at 51.19N and 03.12E. Her wreck was discovered in 2002. A number of parts were removed from her by divers from Belgium. This gauge has undergone a restoration and cleaning since she lay in the North Sea for eighty-four years. The gauge, which I understand is a speedometer, is circular. It measures 8 3/4" in diameter, and is 4 3/4" thick. It is made of brass (which is why it survived all these years under the sea), and weighs a substantial 13 pounds and 2 ounces. The gauge has a glass cover. Its dial reads: "Zurück Voraus," with different fields of measurement. Below that is "Umläufe i.d. Min." The gauge’s exterior features numerous markings which include "S. TEL.71.255." on the upper lid and "255" above and below the "S. TEL.71." Elsewhere a crowned "M" (for Marine) and a trident appear. All this clearly demonstrates it is a naval-issued item. I have been unable to open the lid on the gauge’s face, which is not surprising. Three points appear on the gauge’s bottom where it was bolted to the bulkhead. A screwed attachment also appears where the cables that would have supplied power to the gauge were cut. This is a wonderful artifact that comes from a U-Boat commanded by a PLM-winner. [Extra shipping will be required due to this item’s size and weight]. $2,295.00

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13-791 NAVY COMPASS. This is a very high-quality compass that once steered the course of one of Kaiser Wilhelm’s Kaiserliche Marine vessels. The compass is quite heavy, and weighs 18 lbs. 0 ounces. It measures 8 1/4" in diameter at the top and 5 1/2" in diameter at the base. It has a glass top to protect the compass’s inner workings from salt water and other potential problems. It sports a heavy bronze case for further protection. Its fittings and attachments are at the side. The top trim area displays two firms’ names. One is "Carl Bamberg," which is followed by a serial number, No 89170. To its right is an "M," which denotes "Marine" (Navy). To its right is another name, "Berlin Frieden Au." Under the glass are the various compass points, along with 360 degree markings. It floats freely on a pedestal and moves to the appropriate compass point. The compass is FULLY operational. More markings are on the bottom (which we will show in the photographs accompanying the description). This is a wonderful artifact for any Navy collectors. [Due to the item’s weight and size, additional shipping charges will be required - based on your location and needs]. $950.00

 

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13-549  FRAMED PHOTOGRAPH - S. M. S. KAISERIN. It has been a long time since we have offered one of these little beauties. It is a framed photo of a German Navy ship, with the frame in the shape of a life preserver! These were quite popular with German sailors, either for themselves or for their families back home. The frame measures 6" in diameter. The name of the vessel is hand painted on the preserver. Within its confines is a colorized picture of the ship. This one is for the S. M. S. Kaiserin, which was a part of the "Kaiser" Battleship Class. She was commissioned in 1913, then was scuttled at Scapa Flow with the bulk of the German fleet at WW I’s end. $110.00

 

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13-550 FRAMED PHOTOGRAPH - S. M. S. PILLAU. It has been a long time since we have offered one of these little beauties. It is a framed photo of a German Navy ship, with the frame in the shape of a life preserver! These were quite popular with German sailors, either for themselves or for their families back home. The frame measures 6" in diameter. The name of the vessel is hand painted on the preserver. Within its confines is a colorized picture of the ship. This one is for the S. M. S. Pillau. She was a Small Cruiser, commissioned in 1914. After the war she was handed over to the Italians. The ship was sunk in 1943, during WW II. $110.00  

 

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13-740 XLL FRAMED PHOTOGRAPH - MAN - S. M. S. STUTTGART. This is a consignment item. It is one of the most elaborate frames that I have ever seen from the Imperial German Period. Men who completed service often made or acquired a number of mementos that showed what regiment or ship they had served with. This frame is an absolute piece of art. It measures 11 1/2" x 8 1/2." In the upper left corner is a kriegsflagge. To the immediate right is a life preserver which has the name of the ship (a Cruiser), the S. M. S. Stuttgart. In the center of the life preserver is a painted scene that shows a lighthouse and a sailing ship. Below this we see a pair of crossed naval tools. To the left and right we see "11" and "14," which stand for the dates that he served aboard the S. M. S. Stuttgart, 1911-1914. Below that we see an anchor and a shovel crossed over a gear. This shows his rating is in the Engineering section. The shovel leads me to believe that he was a stoker in the engine room. The frame’s left center shows the man at a photographic studio where he had his picture taken. In looking at his mutze, we see the cap tally for the S. M. S. Stuttgart. All of the information on the frame has been hand painted and, in some cases, etched and painted. A hanger is at the top. You can enjoy this presentation right away. $175.00

 

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13-336 MINI MEMORIAL TO A SAILOR ON THE S. M. S. UNDINE. This is a small memorial to a sailor who served aboard the S. M. S. Undine. It was made from a small stone. The date "1914" and an Iron Cross are painted on the stone. A mini life preserver serves as a frame, with a photo of the sailor housed within it. This is a really different way to show a sailor and his pride in his service. $185.00 .

 

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13-534 S.M.S. ILTIS PLM FABRIC WALL PLAQUE. This is a beautifully handcrafted, custom-embossed, fabric, wall plaque of the S. M. S. Iltis. The S. M. S. Iltis was one of the most legendary ships in the Imperial German Navy. The Iltis was a small coastal or river kanonboot. She was assigned to China before the turn of the 20^th Century. She was a part of the German Navy at the time of the Boxer Rebellion. She was involved in an historic river battle in which she fought in a pitched battle against Chinese boats and forts. During this battle the Germans suffered a high level of casualties, including grave wounds to her commander, Wilhelm Lans. Kaiser Wilhelm II was so pleased with the performance of the S. M. S. Iltis that he ordered that Lans and his small vessel be awarded the Orden Pour le Mérite. This was the first (and last) time that a ship was awarded the PLM. She wore a large PLM at her jack stand until she was sunk during WW I.  This unusual piece is circular, measuring 7 1/4" in diameter. It features a yellow cord trim, followed by two embossed circular frames that set off the interior design. At the top we see "Iltis." In the middle is a gold and blue stylized PLM, without its name imprinted on the decoration’s arms. Below that we see the dates 23 July 1896, which I believe is when the S. M. S. Iltis was assigned to the Chinese station. The other date is 17 June 1900, which was the date of the historic battle. The piece actually opens into two halves, with a button to secure the two halves. It is a most interesting, historical, and handsome piece. $450.00

 

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13-627 THREE FORKS - OFFICER’S MESS/CASINO - KAISERLICHE-MARINE. This is a captivating three-fork set that comes from a Kaiserliche Marine Offiziers Kasino (officer’s mess). Two of the forks are most unusual. Each one has four tines, with a horizontal bar joining the tips. These forks were used for eating fish! They measure 5 3/4" x 1 1/4." Each fork handle boasts an engraved Hohenzollern Crown. The manufacturer, Gebrüder Hepp, is noted on the reverse. The third fork is much smaller. It is more suitable for an appetizer or a salad, perhaps. It also has four tines and measures 5 3/4" x 3/4." It has the Hohenzollern Eagle on the handle as well. These forks would make a fine addition for a naval display or your own dinner table!  $195.00

 

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13-120 NAVY ARTILLERY ASHTRAY. This is a unique stamped metal ash tray that shows a Navy (Marine) artillery crew in action on the Western Front during WW I. We can clearly tell that this is a Navy crew and not Army because the crew is wearing their mutzes, complete with cap tallies! The ash tray measures 4 3/4" x 4 3/4". A most interesting item for you Navy collectors. $175.00.

 

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13-574 NAVY DESK PIECE - S.M.S. THÜRINGEN. This is a heavy metal desk piece given out by the S. M. S. Thüringen’s builder, Actien - Gesellschaft Wesser. This vessel was a battleship of the S. M. S. Helgoland Class. She was launched in 1911, then scrapped during the period from 1923 to 1933. I cannot tell if this was intended as a gift to somebody within the company, or to a naval officer, perhaps at the staff level. It displays the date December 3, 1910, and Bremen, where the ship was built. What makes this interesting is that the date on the desk piece is the year BEFORE the ship’s formal commissioning. The desk piece measures 6 1/2" x 4" x 1." It shows a fine, high-profile image of the ship. The desk piece is quite substantial, weighing 2 pounds. $275.00  

 

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13-245 KAISERLICHE MARINE FLAG FOR A KONTERADMIRAL FOR USE ABOARD HIS FLAGSHIP. This is a very rare flag for a Konteradmiral in the Kaiserliche Marine. This large flag, which measures 2.4 meters x 2.4 meters, has its original rope lanyards. These would have flown from the admiral’s flagship. The size and the rank of the flag are stenciled in black on the bunting. As this is a larger flag, there are several areas of moth nips. There is one tear in it and a stained area. The basic theme is a black cross on a white background. Two black "meatballs" denote the rank of the flag. This flag is very rare since there were few admirals at sea with their ships. A real find for the navy collector. $895.00

 

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13-331 NAVY COFFEE POT WARMER. When I tell you readers that I seek out the "unusual", I need go no further in explaining this piece! This is a quilted coffee pot warmer, saluting the battleship Schlesien. [I was doing some reading on this vessel today. I was amazed to find that it survived WW I and was actually used by the Kriegsmarine during WW II. It was scuttled in May 1945, near the end of the war.] This piece would wrap around a coffee pot, and help keep the contents warm. It has a small button on the side that would secure it around the pot. The multicolored front half of the warmer has a pleasing profile of the vessel. This would be a marvelous way to dress up your pot of coffee in the morning kitchen, or even at your office! $150.00

 

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13-332 PATRIOTIC CLOTH IRON CROSS. I am not sure if this cloth Iron Cross had a purpose or if it was strictly a patriotic piece. Perhaps it was meant to be sewn onto a pillow and someone never got around to it. It measures 8" x 7 1/2." The material appears to be a coarser weave of cotton. It is red with a white and black Iron Cross, measuring 4 1/4" x 4 1/4" in the center. It is in good condition. The EK design is displayed on both sides of the cloth. $75.00 . . .

 

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13-444 NAVY-RELATED POCKET KNIFE. This is a small pocket knife that measures 3," closed. It has a black case. On one side are the initials "F & S." On the other side is "Torpedo." I cannot open the blades due to excessive rust. Perhaps spending some time with WD-40® might take care of the problem. It is priced accordingly. $25.00

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13-463 NAPKIN RING MADE FROM DRIVING BAND OF ARTILLERY SHELL MARKED TO S. M. S. LOTHRINGEN. Napkin rings from the Imperial German period have always been quite interesting and elegant. I have always had an interest in trench art. This example is one of the more unusual that I have seen. It is a section of an artillery shell driving band that has been fashioned into a napkin ring. What makes it even more interesting is that is directly related to the Navy. Etched on the side is the name of the man who probably made this piece, and the name of the vessel S. M. S. Lothringen. The napkin ring is 1 7/8" in diameter and the width is 1 3/4." This piece has lots of character. $110.00 

 

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13-734 RING - NAVAL BUTTON. This ring was made from a naval tunic button. The button is gold-toned. It features a crown over a fouled anchor. In looking at the button, I am certain that it is not a German button but from another European country. It may well be English. The button is housed in a silver-toned setting. It is quite ornate. The ring is a size 7 1/4. $95.00

 

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Cap Tallies

All Navy Cap Tallies 10% Off!!

 

13-789 CAP TALLY - S. M. S. KAISER. This is the cap tally for an enlisted sailor’s mütze from the S. M. S. Kaiser. The vessel was the lead ship of the "Kaiser" battleship class. She was commissioned in 1912. A total of four ships was in the "Kaiser" class. All fought together at the Battle of Jutland (Skagerrak) and were scuttled at Scapa Flow in 1919. The black silk cap tally measures 48 1/2" in length. The vessel’s name is embossed in faded gilt on the exterior. The tally is not damaged. $75.00

 

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13-510 CAP TALLY - MARINE-FLIEGER-ABTEILUNG. This is a cap tally for an enlisted man who was assigned to a Marine-Flieger-Abteilung. The tally is black silk. The name of the unit is embossed on it in gold. It is in very good condition. It is always difficult to find cap tallies for naval aviation units. $425.00

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13-241 CAP TALLY FOR SEEFLIEGER ABTEILUNG II. This is a very fine cap tally to an enlisted man who served in Seeflieger Abteilung Nr 2. This would have been for navy seaplanes that were based along the coast of Germany. The black silk tally has the name of the unit embossed in silver. It is in excellent condition. $195.00

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13-214 CAP TALLY 2. SEEFLIEGER ABTEILUNG 2. This Cap Tally would be for Seeflieger Abteilung II and has silver lettering on the Tally. This would be for Seaplane Squadron #2. Excellent condition. $195.00

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13-427 CAP TALLY FOR XI. HALBFLOTTILLE. This cap tally is for an enlisted sailor who served in XI. Halbflottille (Half Flotilla). This unit was a smaller and more compact flotilla which would most likely have been under the command of a Kapitän zur See or possibly a Konteradmiral. The tally is made of silk and is full length. The legend XI. Halbflottille XI. Is embossed in gilt on the tally. The lettering is somewhat faded from age. $75.00.

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13-557 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. KAISERIN AUGUSTA. This is a cap tally for an enlisted sailor who served on the S.M.S. Kaiserin Augusta. The ship was named after the wife of Kaiser Wilhelm II, Augusta Viktoria. The silk tally has the name of the vessel embossed on it in gold. $80.00  

 

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13-700 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. MARS. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S. M. S. Mars. The ship was an artillery training vessel in service from 1881-1908. From what I can find, she was scrapped in 1914. The S. M. S. Mars had a crew that ranged between 344 and 474 men. The cap tally is black silk and measures 47" in length. The vessel’s name is embossed in gold on the cap tally. $125.00

 

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13-701 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. KAISER FRIEDRICH III. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S. M. S. Kaiser Friedrich III. The vessel was the lead of the Kaiser Friedrich III Class of Schlachtschiffs. She was commissioned in 1898. She was used for minor operations during WW I, then converted to a prison ship and a floating barracks. She was scrapped in 1920. The cap tally is made of black silk and measures 45 1/2" in length. The vessel’s name is embossed in silver on the tally. The tally is in very fine condition. $125.00

 

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13-710 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. POMMERN. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S. M. S. Pommern. It was a Schlachtschiff (Battleship) of the Deutschland Class. A total of five ships was in this class. She was commissioned in 1907, and was sunk at the Battle of Jutland (Skagerrak) in 1916. She suffered 839 casualties. The tally is made of black silk. It measures 46 1/2” in length and has the vessel’s name embossed in gold. $150.00

 

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13-711 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. PREUSSEN. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S. M. S. Preussen. The S. M. S. Preussen was a Linienschiff (Battleship) of the Braunschweig Class. Five ships were in the class. She was commissioned in 1905. By the beginning of WW I, she was considered obsolete. She was used for coastal defense. Germany was permitted to keep this ship after WW I. She was scrapped in 1931. The black tally is made of silk and measures 34 1/2” in length. This is not a full length tally, the portion to the left of the S.M.S. has been removed. There is only about 2" of fabric remaining. When extended to its full length, the tally is off balance and would not be suitable for mounting on a mutze. We have adjusted the price accordingly.  The vessel’s name is embossed in gold. $95.00

 

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13-712 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. KURFUERST FRIEDRICH WILHELM. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S. M. S. Kurfuerst Friedrich Wilhelm. The ship was a Linienschiff (Battleship) of the Braunschweig Class. A total of five ships was in this class. She was commissioned in 1894. She was sold to Turkey in 1910 and was sunk by a British submarine while under Turkish control in 1915. The tally is made of black silk and measures 46 1/2” in length. The vessel’s name is embossed in gold. $125.00

 

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13-703 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. HEIMDALL. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S. M. S. Heimdall. The ship was a Coastal Cruiser. A Coastal Cruiser was a lightly-armored and lightly-armed ship that patrolled coastal waters. She had a total of three 24CM and eight to ten 8.8 guns. She was also armed with torpedo tubes. She was commissioned in 1894. Being outmoded in WW I, she was used as barracks for sailors who served aboard U-Boats. She was scrapped in 1921. The tally is made of black silk and measures 45 3/4" in length. The vessel’s name is embossed in gold, which shows signs of age. $125.00

 

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13-692 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. HANNOVER. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S. M. S. Hannover. The vessel was a Linienschiff, commissioned in 1907. She was a part of the Deutsch Class. She served in the Baltic Fleet during WW I, as she was an outmoded ship. She was scrapped during the period of 1944-1946. The cap tally is made of black silk and measures 43 1/2" in length. The vessel’s name is embossed on it in silver. $125.00

 

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13-694 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. ELASS. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S. M. S. Elass. She was a Linienschiff, part of the Braunschweig Battleship Class. She was commissioned in 1904. As a more outmoded ship, she was assigned to the Baltic Squadron. She was scrapped in 1936. The cap tally is black silk and measures 47" in length. The vessel’s name is embossed on the tally in gold. $125.00

 

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13-567 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. SCHWABEN. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S.M.S. Schwaben. This is NOT a full-length tally. It measures 19" in length. It does, however, show the complete name of the vessel in gold on the black silk material. $60.00  

 

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13-649 NAVY CAP TALLY - S.M.S OLDENBURG. This is an enlisted man’s cap tally from the S. M. S. Oldenburg. It was a Schlachtschiff (Battleship) of the Helgoland Class. She was commissioned in 1912, and served at the Battle of Jutland (Skagerrak) in 1916. The cap tally measures 38 3/4" in length. The vessel’s name is embossed in silver on the black silk material. The cap tally is in very fine condition. $115.00

 

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13-588 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. HELGOLAND. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S.M.S. Helgoland. It was a battleship and the lead ship of the Helgoland Class. She was placed in service in 1911, then scrapped in 1924. The vessel’s name is embossed on the silk tally. It is NOT full-length, measuring 32." It is still fine for display. $60.00  

 

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13-589 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. RHEIN. This is a cap tally for the S.M.S. Rhein. The ship was placed in service in 1867, and removed from active service in 1911. She was used as a school ship for minelayers. This was a relatively small ship with a small crew and thus there are few cap tally's available from it, especially as it was retired from service before the beginning of WW I. The vessel’s name is embossed in gold on the black silk tally. The tally is full-length, but has a repair on the reverse where the tally had been cut in two. It is still fine for display. $65.00  

 

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13-590 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. MECKLENBURG. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S.M.S. Mecklenburg. It was a battleship of the Wittelsbach Class. She was commissioned in 1903, then scrapped in 1921. The tally is full length. The vessel’s name is embossed in gold on the black silk tally. $60.00  

 

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13-591 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. KAISER KARL der GROßE. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S.M.S. Kaiser Karl der Große. This was a battleship of the Friedrich III Class. She was commissioned in 1902, then scrapped in 1920. This is a full-length tally. The vessel’s name is embossed in silver on the black silk tally. $80.00  

 

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13-568 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. NASSAU. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S.M.S. Nassau. This is NOT a full-length tally. It measures 26 3/4" in length. It does, however, show the complete name of the vessel in silver on the black silk material. $80.00

 

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13-738 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. KAISERIN. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the Kaiserliche Marine. The man served aboard the S. M. S. Kaiserin. She was a Schlachtschiff (Battleship) of the Kaiser Class and was launched in 1913. She was among the most modern of the German battleships. She served at the Battle of Jutland. In 1919, she was among the German fleet’s ships that were scuttled at Scapa Flow. The black silk cap tally measures 46 1/4" in length. The vessel’s name is embossed in silver. $125.00

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13-663 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. SCHWABEN. This is an enlisted man’s cap tally for the S. M. S. Schwaben. The Schwaben was a Linenschiff (Battleship) commissioned in 1904. She was a part of the Wittelsbach Class. When WW I began in 1914, the ship was outmoded. It was used for assorted fleet training and support missions. The cap tally is made of black silk. The vessel’s name is embossed in gold. The vessel’s name is much lighter than we generally see due to age and use. It measures 47 1/4" in overall length. $115.00

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13-566 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. NURENBERG. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S.M.S. Nurenberg. The vessel was a Heavy Cruiser. The name of the ship is embossed in silver on the black silk of the tally. $80.00  

 

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13-554 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. WÜRTTEMBERG. This is a cap tally for an enlisted sailor who served aboard the S.M.S. Württemberg. The vessel was a battleship. The name of the vessel is embossed in gold on the silk ribbon. $90.00  

 

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13-563 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. BRAUNSCHWEIG. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S.M.S. Braunschweig. The S.M.S. Braunschweig was a Battleship. She was commissioned in 1904 and scrapped in 1932. The name of the vessel is embossed in silver on the black silk material. $90.00  

 

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13-564 CAP TALLY - LINIENSCHIFF ELASS. This is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the Linienschiff Elass. The vessel was a Battleship of the Braunschweig Class. It was commissioned in 1904 and scrapped in 1936. The name of the vessel is embossed in gold on the black silk of the tally. $90.00  

 

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13-555 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. BRAUNSCHWEIG. This is a cap tally for an enlisted sailor who served on the S.M.S. Braunschweig. The ship was a battleship. The name of the vessel is embossed in gold on the tally. $60.00  

 

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13-556 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. PRINZ ADALBERT. This is a cap tally for an enlisted sailor who served aboard the S.M.S. Prinz Adalbert. Adalbert was Kaiser Wilhelm II’s third son, and his only son to serve in the Kaiserliche Marine. The S.M.S. Adalbert was a Heavy Cruiser and one of three in the Prinz Heinrich Class of Heavy Cruisers (Prinz Heinrich was the Kaiser’s younger brother, who became a Großadmiral). This is not a full-length tally. It measures just 20" in length. Even though it is not a full-length cap tally, it is still excellent for display. The vessel’s name is embossed in silver on the black silk. $50.00  

 

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13-604 CAP TALLY - A. 1. II WERFT=DIVISION. This is an enlisted sailor’s black silk cap tally from the A.1. II. Werft=Division. Embossed in silver on the cap tally is A. 1. II. Werft=Division II. A. 1. The tally measures 45 1/2" in length. It is in very fine condition. $115.00  

 

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13-206 CAP TALLY 1. HALBFLOTTILLE. 1. This yet another cap tally for an enlisted man. The legend of 1.Halbflotille.1. Is in gold. The tally is in very fine condition.  $60.00

 

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13-199 CAP TALLY SCHIFFSARTILLERIE=SCHULE. This is an interesting cap tally for an enlisted man in a school for the training of gun crews aboard ships. This is a black silk tally with the name of the school embossed in gold. $60.00

 

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13-639 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. SCHWABEN. This is an enlisted man’s cap tally from the S.M.S. Schwaben. The vessel was a Linienschiff (Ship of the Line/Battleship) of the Wittelsbach Class. She was commissioned in 1904. The cap tally measures 40." It has the name of the vessel embossed on it in silver. The cap tally is in excellent condition. $125.00

 

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13-640 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. THUERINGEN. This is an enlisted man’s cap tally from the S.M.S. Thueringen (Thüringen). She was a Schlachtschiff (Battleship) of the Helgoland Class. She was commissioned in 1911. The cap tally is 39 1/2" in length. It has the name of the vessel embossed on it in silver. $125.00

 

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13-641 CAP TALLY - S.M.S. POSEN. This is an enlisted man’s cap tally from the S.M.S. Posen. She was a Schlachtschiff (Battleship) of the Nassau Class. She was commissioned in 1910. The cap tally is 46 1/2" in length. It is embossed with the name of the vessel in gold, which has faded. $195.00

 

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13-194 CAP TALLY S.M.S. HELGOLAND. This is a cap tally for an enlisted man who served aboard the S. M. S. Helgoland. The name of the vessel is embossed in gold on the black silk tally. The gold lettering is somewhat faded here, which is why we are pricing it for ten dollars less than the last one we had for this vessel. $65.00...

 

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13-175 CAP TALLY 3. I. WERFT=DIVISION. I. 3. A nicely silver embossed on black silk cap tally for a man in a Werft Division. $75.00. .

 

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13-308 CAP TALLY FOR X. HALBFLOTTILLE. X. This is a Navy cap tally for X. Halbflottille X. The unit name appears in faded gilt embossing on the tally. $75.00.

 

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13-743 XLL CAP TALLY - S. M. S. GRILLE. This is a consignment item. It is an enlisted sailor’s cap tally from the S. M. S. Grille. It was an early ship in the Prussian Navy, a sailing ship, in fact. I have seen a lithograph of her from about 1886. The tally measures 50 1/2" in length. It has the vessel’s name embossed in gold. Cap tallies from early ships are not easy to find. This tally is in excellent condition. $95.00

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13-745 XLL CAP TALLY - 5. I. WERFT=DIVISION. I. 5. This is a consignment item. It is an enlisted man’s Navy cap tally from the 5. I. Werft=Division. I. 5. The cap tally measures 39 1/2" in length. It has the unit’s name embossed in silver. $60.00

 

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13-30 NAVY MEDICAL ARMBAND. A very nice Medical Arm Band. It measures 5 ½’ x 7" and is black and I would say that it is made of a fine quality cotton. It has double horizontal embroidered stripes that have rows of various colored lines. In between those two stripes is the universally known symbol for medicine of a staff and an intertwined snake. This device is embroidered silver bullion. The entire armband is in excellent condition and would be a wonderful addition to a Naval tunic or just to a general collection. $195.00

 

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01-195 KRIEGSFLAGGE STICKPINS. During my last trip to Germany in July, these Kriegsflagge stickpins proved to be very popular. I was able to locate another supply on this trip and decided to buy them while the buying was good. I am able to offer these for $10.00 each or three for $25.00. .

 

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Books

All Books Below are 10% Off!!

13-113 DER U-BOOT KRIEG by LORD JELLICOE. Another book originally written in English as The Submarine Peril that was translated into German in the 1930's. The author was the noted English Admiral and Commander of the English fleet at The Battle of Jutland, Lord Jellicoe. The book is illustrated and has interesting tables that show the concern and respect that senior Royal Navy admirals had for the threat presented by U-boats. $40.00.

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13-611 SEEMANNSHAUS BOOK. This is a very interesting book. The Seemannshaus was a place for sailors to congregate when not on duty. [During WW II, America’s USO maintained similar places where soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen spent their off-duty time. Often young women were present as hostesses and talked with the men, to remind them why they were fighting]! This fascinating book has photographs of the houses in various countries (the one in China, for example). Photos of sailors passing their time, and the house interiors are shown. It is a rare, soft-cover book. $150.00

 

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