Der
Rittmeister Militaria, LLC, Imperial German Merchandise Page 19: Photos: Signed
Photographs and Documents, etc. of Imperial German Military, Aviation, Royalty.
Updated on 2 September2010.
Contact us @:
rittmeister@tampabay.rr.com![]()


New items on
Bala's Bargain Bin, our clearance page, effective
19 July 2009!!AND INTRODUCING our NEWEST Sale Page:
Kyri's Kurio Korner, featuring great little items from a
cute little cat -- at reduced prices! Effective 19 July 2009!!
We have an office in Germany 0049 (0)4104-962028!!
Signatures: Imperial German Royalty
Signatures on Photographs & Documents of
Kaiser Wilhelm II
20-227 FRAMED AUTOGRAPHED PHOTOGRAPH - KAISER WILHELM II -
UNIFORM - REGIMENT der GARDE du CORPS.
d autographed photographs of Kaiser Wilhelm II are always prized
among collectors. They also were highly sought-after by German citizens and
military figures during the Imperial German Period. You were considered
privileged to own the Kaiser’s autographed photograph, and you proudly
displayed it in your home or office. For the favored few, the Kaiser included
a special frame with the photograph. These combinations are VERY expensive IF
you can find one.
Today we are offering a delightful framed Kaiser Wilhelm II photograph. He is
mounted on his horse, wearing a visor cap. I cannot get a good enough view of
his uniform, but he is wearing cavalry boots, so I will presume he is wearing
a cavalry regiment’s uniform. On his right shoulder one can see the very
elaborate combination of shoulder board and aiguillette. He is in front
of what appears to be a regimental barracks. The photograph is boldly signed
in black ink and dated "1906 Berlin." With this information, he is
probably at one of the Berlin barracks for his Garde-Regiments.
The frame is made of wooden black lacquer. It measures 10 1/2" x 13 1/4." At
its top is a brass Hohenzollern Crown with flowing stole. A hanger is at the
top on the reverse. It can easily be attached to a wall. The photograph within
the frame measures 6 1/4" x 7 1/4." It makes a fine combination to grace any
collection.
$2,195.00
20-97 FRAMED
OFFICER PATENT WITH THE SIGNATURE OF KAISER WILH
ELM
II.
This is a wonderful document grouping to a single officer, Freiherr von Münstermann. The grouping consists of his three promotion patents. What makes them so interesting (and dare I say, valuable) are the personal signatures of Kaiser Wilhelm I and Kaiser Wilhelm II. The documents are described below:
31-85 THREE OFFICER PATENTS - SIGNED - KAISER WILHELM I - KAISER WILHELM II.
*Promotion Patent - Premier Lieutenant to Hauptmann. The document measures 14 1/2" x 9" when folded, and 5" x 9" when unfolded. In this fashion, three of the four sides are utilized. Von Münstermann was serving in 1. Westfäl. Feldartillerie-Regiment Nr 7. With his promotion to hauptmann, von Münstermann became a Batterie Chef in the same regiment. The document was signed by Kaiser Wilhelm I on 14 December 1875. [Although we do not have earlier information on von Münstermann, it is almost certain he would have been a young leutnant during the 1870-1871 Franco-Prussian War].
*Promotion Patent - Hauptmann to Major. The document measures 14" x 8 1/2" when folded, and 4 3/4" x 8 1/2" when unfolded. In this fashion, three of the four sides are utilized. Von Münstermann was serving in Holsteinsches Feldartillerie Regiment Nr 24 as a hauptmann. With his promotion to major, von Münstermann was transferred to Feldartillerie-Regiment von Peucker (1. Schlesisches) Nr 6. The document was signed in Berlin on 22 March 1887. Twelve years as a hauptmann was a long time. It shows how slow advancement can be during peacetime. The document was signed in the final year of Kaiser Wilhelm I’s reign. Germany’s first Kaiser signed boldly and distinctively in black ink.
*Promotion Patent - Major to Oberst-lieutenant. The document measures 14 1/4" x 8 1/2" when folded, and 5" x 8 1/2" when unfolded. In this fashion, three of the four sides are utilized. Von Münstermann was to serve in 1. Pommersches Feldartillerie-Regiment Nr 2. The document was signed at Berlin’s Neu Palais on 18 June 1892. Kaiser Wilhelm II’s large and bold signature appears on the document.
It is a fine grouping of three promotion patents, with two signatures of Kaiser Wilhelm I and one signature of Kaiser Wilhelm II. The documents are in very good condition when one considers they range from one-hundred-thirty-five to one-hundred-eighteen-years in age. They provide the basis for an interesting research project. While it is doubtful that this officer would have still been serving in WW I, it is quite possible that he achieved general officer’s status before he retired. $850.00
13-780 PROMOTION PATENT
OF A NAVAL OFFICER SIGNED BY KAISER WILHELM II & GRANDADMIRAL
ALFRED von TIRPITZ.
This is a very interesting promotion patent for a naval officer. His name was Oskar Röcher. He was promoted to Kapitänleutnant on 12 November 1904. It was at the ranks of hauptmann and kapitänleutnant that Kaiser Wilhelm II signed the promotion patents prior to WW I. The document measures 14 1/4" x 8 1/2" when unopened, and 14 1/4" x 17" when opened. The second page bears Kaiser Wilhelm II’s bold signature in black ink, and an embossed seal with the Hohenzollern Eagle. A patent like this is very difficult-to-find, as the Kaiserliche Marine was far smaller than the German Army and thus involved far fewer officers. Further research on Röcher shows that he received the very rare Colonial Medal with Clasp for service during 1902/1903 in Venezuela. During World War I, he served on several ships, including the S. M. S. Großer Kurfürst, the S. M. S. München, and the S. M. S. Freya. He retired in 1919 as a Kapitän zur See a.D. $450.00
19-208 NAVAL OFFICER PROMOTION PATENT - KAISER WILHELM II’S SIGNATURE.
This is an award document for the Prussian Crown Order 3rd Class. It is dated 18 January 1903 in Berlin. The award was made to Oberstleutnant Friedrich von Peteresdorff, who served on the staff of 4. Unter-Elsässischem Infantrie-Regiment Nr 143. The document bears Kaiser Wilhelm II’s large and bold signature, along with the House of Hohenzollern’s embossed coat-of-arms. The document has been placed in a period matte, but is not framed. The matte measures 16" x 11 1/2." The document within the matte measures 12 1/2" x 8 1/4." Another separate matte has a typewritten copy of what is said exactly on the document. I have no research at this time on Oberstleutnant von Petersdorff. Perhaps he served in WW I. If he did, it is probable that he was a general officer. $450.00
20-171 AWARD DOCUMENT - CROWN ORDER 3rd CLASS - SIGNED BY KAISER WILHELM II.
This is a color postcard that has been personally signed by Kaiser Wilhelm II. The postcard shows the royal castle of Sans Souci in Potsdam. The scene shows "Neptune’s Grotto" at the castle. The bottom of the postcard features Kaiser Wilhelm II’s signature in pencil, as well as good wishes for 1905. $250.00
19-163 PRE WW I AUTOGRAPHED POSTCARD OF KAISER WILHELM II.
This is a consignment item. It is a framed presentation consisting of a Kaiser Wilhelm II-autographed photo-gift card and a REPRODUCTION of the Orden Pour le Mérite (PLM). The Kaiser’s photograph is from his exile at Haus Doorn in the Netherlands. The pose features the former Kaiser in a business suit. In his suit’s buttonhole is a PLM with Oak Leaves boutonniere. "Doorn 1931" and his signature are penciled-in below his photograph. The signed gift-card, measuring 6 1/4" x 4 3/4," appears in a matted display window within the framed presentation. Below that is a REPRODUCTION Orden Pour le Mérite. The decoration is placed on a neatly-folded reproduction ribbon, which also appears in a matted display window. Both of the items are displayed within a handsomely framed presentation, measuring 19 1/2" x 12 1/2." The overall frame’s gold matches that of the smaller frames surrounding the Kaiser’s photo and the reproduction PLM. The entire presentation is tastefully executed and ready to hang on YOUR wall. $295.00
20-259 XES FRAMED AUTOGRAPHED GIFT CARD BY KAISER WILHELM II & REPRODUCTION OF THE ORDEN POUR le MÉRITE.
Signatures on Photographs & Documents of
Kaiser Wilhelm I
20-143 FRAMED COLLAGE OF KAISER WILHELM I OF PRUSSIA. This is a fascinating framed collage of artifacts relating to Kaiser Wilhelm I (1797-1888). To begin, the framed collage measures 26" x 29 1/2." The framing is very high-quality but modern-day, not period. The frame displays a beautiful gilded molding that sets off the items within the frame quite handsomely. At the frame’s bottom is a brass plaque that states "Kaiser Wilhelm I 1797-1888." Within the frame are three different windows that have been created to house three items. Each of the windows is double-matted to set off the contents even more attractively. To the far left is a front page newspaper dated 13 March 1888. The newspaper measures 20 1/4" x 15," and is from Bremen. It carries the story of the Kaiser’s death, along with key points of his life. On display at the top right is a high-quality, printed notice of a memorial service for the Kaiser by the "Deutschen Vereinen Londons (Germans United in/with London) on 24 March 1888. This measures 9 1/4" x 7." Finally, on the bottom right is Kaiser Wilhelm I’s formal portrait, measuring 7" x 4 3/4." It also displays his distinctive signature in black ink. This magnificent presentation deserves a special place in your home or office. [As this is a very large presentation, professional packing will be required to ensure safe delivery to its new owner. Shipping charges are dependent on the buyer’s location]. $1,195.00
What makes this a special document is that it falls during the time of the Franco-Prussian War. The war began on 19 July 1870 and ended on 10 May 1871. While not as short as the 1866 Austro-Prussian War, it was every bit as decisive, since the French Army was no match for the German Army. [This did not relate to the French soldiers’ efforts on the front lines, but instead to those of the French government and Army. French soldiers were poorly trained and poorly equipped. Also, the French general staff and its generals in the field had no real concept of modern tactics. Thus, French soldiers were poorly led and equipped to face an army which was the world’s best at the time. This patent promotes a hauptmann to major in the Engineer (Ingenieur) Corps. Our man’s last name is Richter. Richter would go on to command Pionier-Battalion Nr 6. The document was signed by Prussia’s König Wilhelm I. Wilhelm I became Kaiser on 18 January 1871 in an elaborate coronation at Versailles. Interestingly, this patent was signed by Wilhelm on 22 December 1870 at his Versailles’ Headquarters. Versailles played a continuing role in Franco-German history during the 20th Century’s first half. It was where the German surrender took place during November 1918 in a railway car. In 1940 Adolf Hitler sat in the same railway car to accept the French surrender. The document measures 14 1/8" x 8 3/4" when folded, and 14 1/8" x 17 1/4" when unfolded. $295.00
19-209 ENGINEERING OFFICER PROMOTION PATENT - KÖNIG WILHELM I SIGNATURE - 1870-1871 FRANCO-PRUSSIAN WAR.
This is a very interesting award document (urkunde) for the Red Eagle Order 2nd Class. It is the earliest award document we have ever offered [with the exception of award documents for the 1813 Iron Cross 2nd Class signed by King Friedrich Wilhelm III, the grandfather of King (later Kaiser) Wilhelm I]. This document was signed by King Wilhelm I on 18 January 1863. The recipient was Dr. Albert Sigismund Jaspis, the Generalsuperintendant of Pommern in Stettin (1809-1885). The award was actually for the Red Eagle Order 2nd Class with Bow. The use of the bow was a unique addition to the Red Eagle Order, which marked the recipient for the award of a higher class at a later date. The format of the document is identical to that which was used until the end of the Empire in 1918. $450.00
19-115 RED EAGLE ORDER 2nd CLASS AWARD DOCUMENT SIGNED BY KING WILHELM I (LATER KAISER WILHELM I) OF PRUSSIA.
Signatures on Photographs & Documents of
Kaiser Friedrich III
19-129 KAISER FRIEDRICH III (1831-1888)- SIGNATURE - PRUSSIA. Friedrich III was Germany’s second Kaiser. He succeeded his father, Wilhelm I, who died in 1888. Sadly, Friedrich III, Kaiser Wilhelm II’s father, sat on the throne for just three months. In Germany he is often referred to as the "100 Day Kaiser." During 1888, Germany had three kaisers in little more than three months! Friedrich III was an able military commander who played an important role in Germany’s victory in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870/71. This appears to be a large envelope which has been unfolded. It measures 15 1/4" x 11." It is addressed to a Major Goltz. In the lower left corner Friedrich III’s bold and distinctive signature appears in black ink. $195.00
Signatures on Documents of
König Friedrich Wilhelm IV of Prussia
This is promotion patent for an Oberst who was being promoted to Generalmajor. His name was Ludwig von Gersdorff. He was the commander of Infantrie-Brigade Nr 32 and á la Suite Infantrie-Regiment Nr 27. This document measures 14 1/4" x 8 3/4." It unfolds into three separate pages with various information. The document is dated 22 May 1858 and signed by King Friedrich Wilhelm IV of Prussia. It has been folded, with some tearing and foxing at certain points. That said, the document is complete, and generally in good condition. It is very difficult to find promotion patents for generals. It is nothing short of astounding to find one that is nearly 150 years old! King Friedrich Wilhelm IV’s signature is on the final page. $595.00
31-33 GENERALMAJOR PROMOTION PATENT SIGNED BY KING FRIEDRICH WILHELM IV OF PRUSSIA.
This is an ORIGINAL letter signed by King Friedrich Wilhelm IV (1795-1861). Friedrich Wilhelm IV was King of Prussia (1840-1850). He was removed from the throne after he went insane. The letter was written in the castle at Charlottenburg on 30 December 1847. This dealt with the promotion of a young Portopeefähnrich to Second Lieutenant. The officer in question was Grafen zu Stolberg Wernigerode. This action was taken by Friedrich Wilhelm IV as the head of the Garde-Korps. The young officer was attached to 1. Garde-Regiment zu Füßilier. It is a fine early promotion patent to a young nobleman. The format is different from what was used by both Kaiser Wilhelm I and II. $450.00
19-122 DOCUMENT FOR A YOUNG LEUTNANT - SIGNED BY KING FRIEDRICH WILHELM IVOF- PRUSSIA.
Signatures on Documents of
König Karl OF WÜRTTEMBERG
31-82 PROMOTION PATENT - KÖNIG KARL
OF WÜRTTEMBERG.
Signatures on Documents of
König Wilhelm II Of WÜRTTEMBERG
31-83 PROMOTION PATENT - KÖNIG WILHELM II
OF WÜRTTEMBERG.
Signatures on Documents & Photographs by
Kronprinz Wilhelm and/or Kronprinzessin Cecilie
19-159 AUTOGRAPHED THANK YOU CARD - ENVELOPE - KRONPRINZ
WILHELM - PRUSSIA.
This is a consignment item. It is an autographed photograph of Prussia’s Kronprinz Wilhelm. Wilhelm was Kaiser Wilhelm II’s oldest son, and heir to Germany’s throne. Like his father, he went into exile for a time. He became the pretender to the throne when his father died in 1941. The photograph shows him in the uniform of his beloved 1. Leib-Husaren-Regiment Nr 1. The photograph measures 5 1/2" x 3 1/4." It is signed by the Kronprinz on the reverse, along with a dedication. The photograph is dated May 1934. $250.00
19-192 XES AUTOGRAPHED PHOTOGRAPH - KRONPRINZ WILHELM.
Signatures on Documents of
Albrecht Graf von Roon of Prussia
Albrecht Graf von Roon (1803-1879) was the War Minister of Prussia during the Franco-Prussian War. This is a small letter that features his bold signature at the document’s bottom. A small part of the upper left corner has been clipped. It looks like the area where the date may have appeared. $125.00
19-118 AUTOGRAPHED LETTER - ALBRECHT GRAF von ROON - PRUSSIA.
Signatures on Documents & Photographs by
Prinz Albrecht of Prussia
This is a clipped autograph (a clipped signature from a document or letter) of Prinz Albrecht von Preußen (1809-1872). Albrecht was the younger brother of Kaiser Wilhelm I. He was a General der Kavallerie in the Prussian Army. The clipped signature is boldly signed by the Prinz, and displays his rank immediately below. $95.00
19-119 AUTOGRAPH - PRINZ ALBRECHT VON PREUßEN.
Signatures on Documents & Photographs by
Prinz Louis Ferdinand of Prussia
19-160 CONDOLENCE THANK YOU CARD FROM PRINZ LOUIS
FERDINAND OF PRUSSIA FOR HIS FATHER KRONPRINZ WILHELM OF PRUSSIA.
This is a note from Prinz Louis Ferdinand of Prussia to a sympathizer who
sent his condolences on the death of his father, Kronprinz (later Pretender
to Germany’s throne) Wilhelm (1882-1951). Prinz Louis Ferdinand (1907-1994)
was the second son of Kronprinz Wilhelm and Kronprinzessin Cecilie. He
became the eldest surviving son when his brother, Prinz Wilhelm (1906-1940)
was killed in France during WW II while serving in the army. Prinz Louis
Ferdinand became the Pretender to Germany’s throne when his father died in
1951. This card, which measures 4 1/8" x 5 3/4," is creme-colored and bordered in
black. A printed message appears extending appreciation for the kind wishes
expressed to the family. The card, from Bremen-Borgfeld, is dated 1951
(July) in the lower left corner. The card is boldly signed in black ink by
Louis Ferdinand. It comes with its original mailing envelope, and is
addressed to "Rittmeister a. D. Adolf von Lauff." The envelope is bordered
in black, and its inside is all black. The envelope was never mailed.
Apparently, it was hand-delivered.
Signatures on Documents by
Prinz Karl Alexander of Thurn und Taxis
31-77 AWARD DOCUMENT - PRINZ KARL ALEXANDER - THURN UND TAXIS.
Signatures on Documents by
Prinz Oskar of Prussia
This postcard has been autographed by Prinz Oskar von Preußen. He was one of Kaiser Wilhelm II’s six sons. The postcard shows a stallion in profile. It has the Prinz’s signature, and is dated 1904. It is dedicated on the reverse to a Gräfin von Rantzau, who was a good friend of Oskar’s mother, Kaiserin Augusta Viktoria. The dedication has been obscured on the reverse, but the black ink signature of the young Prinz is very clear. $95.00
19-164 AUTOGRAPHED POSTCARD - PRINZ OSKAR von PREUßEN.
Signatures on Documents by
Prinz Eitel Friedrich of Prussia
This postcard offers good wishes for the New Year of 1908 from Prinz Eitel Friedrich von Preußen. He was another of Kaiser Wilhelm II’s six sons. The black ink signature is quite bold. $95.00
19-165 AUTOGRAPHED POSTCARD - PRINZ EITEL FRIEDRICH von PREUßEN.
Signatures on Documents & Photographs by
Prinz Heinrich of Prussia
19-92 AUTOGRAPHED LETTER FROM PRINZ HEINRICH - PRUSSIA. This is an original letter written by Prinz Heinrich of Prussia (1862-1929). Heinrich was the younger brother of Kaiser Wilhelm II. Heinrich served as the head of the Kaiserliche Marine in the rank of Großadmiral. He served in that capacity until he disagreed with Großadmiral Alfred von Tirpitz. Heinrich lost out on that power play when his older brother backed von Tirpitz. Interestingly, this hand written letter is on an 8 3/4" x 5 3/4" piece of paper that has been folded in half and bears the embossed seal of the Kroneprinzessen Cecilie. She was his niece by marriage, a princess from Mecklenburg-Schwerin, and the wife of his nephew, Krone Prinz Wilhelm, the heir to the Hohenzollern throne and the man who never became Kaiser after the monarchy fell in 1918. This letter was written 22 April 1922 in black ink. A partial description of the letter in German is included. $175.00 .
Signatures on Documents & Photographs by
Prinzessin Viktoria Luise of Prussia
19-147 XES AUTOGRAPHED PARTY INVITATION CELEBRATING QUEEN ELIZABETH II OF GREAT BRITAIN’S BIRTHDAY - AUTOGRAPHED BY PRINZESSIN/DUCHESS VIKTORIA LUISE (PRUSSIA AND BRAUNSCHWEIG) AND LUDWIG FREIHERR von HAMMERSTEIN-EQUORD. This is a consignment item. While I am unable to date this definitively, I estimate it hails from the 1960's or 1970's. It is an invitation to Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain’s birthday celebration. The party was given by British Ambassador Steel. The invitation is addressed to Ludwig Freiherr von Hammerstein-Equord. He came from a very old Prussian military family. I have no details about him, however, his father was Freiherr Kurt von Hammerstein-Equord (1878-1943). He was a high-ranking, highly decorated officer in WW I who served on the general staff. Ultimately, he was appointed Chief of Staff in 1930. Violently anti-Nazi, his influence was greatly reduced after their rise to power. This beautifully engraved invitation measures 5" x 6 1/4." What makes it so interesting is that it is autographed by Prinzessin/Duchess Viktoria Luise (1892-1980)on the reverse. She was Kaiser Wilhelm II’s only daughter, and married Duke (Herzog) Ernst August of Braunschweig in 1913. Along with her signature on the reverse, that of von Hammerstein-Equord can be seen. It is all in very fine condition. $250.00
Signatures on Documents & Photographs by
Prinz Otto von Bismarck
19-205 ORIGINAL AUTOGRAPH - OTTO von BISMARCK. This is an original clipped autograph of the "Iron Chancellor," Otto von Bismarck (1813-1898). A clipped signature is one removed from a document or letter. It is also possible for it to be a signature obtained on a piece of paper. Our example is on a piece of paper that measures 2 1/2" x 7 1/2." The signature itself is in black ink and is quite distinctive. $225.00
Signatures:
Imperial German Air Service
Manfred von Richthofen
Manfred von Richthofen is arguably the most famous fighter pilot of all time. He brought a sense of dynamism to an emerging art of battle, while enjoying a celebrity in the early 20th Century that rivals a rock star’s in the 21st. Rittmeister Manfred Freiherr von Richthofen’s signature remains the single most-coveted autograph among collectors. The legendary "Red Baron" (Der Rote Kampfflieger to Germans) transferred to the Imperial German Air Service from the cavalry. He graduated from military school before WW I began and had proudly joined an Ulanen-Regiment (Ulanen-Regiment Kaiser Alexander III von Rußland (Westpreußisches) Nr 1). Posted to the Eastern Front when World War I began, von Richthofen quickly realized it would not be a war of exciting cavalry charges – men on their noble steeds facing the enemy and attacking with drawn swords. As the situation rapidly deteriorated to trench warfare, he realized he needed to charge against the enemy on a winged "horse." He quickly sent a very impertinent letter to his commanding general, requesting transfer to the Air Service. After all, he wrote "I did not join the cavalry to deliver cheeses!" [A very cheeky missive for a young leutnant from minor East Prussian nobility]. Nevertheless, von Richthofen received his desired transfer. Manfred Von Richthofen started his aviation career as an observer, then wrangled his way into pilot training. His first efforts as a pilot were not exactly successful; he managed to crash his airplane! He finally passed the course and was assigned to an observation squadron. Shortly afterward, Germany’s finest, most successful pilot, Oswald Boelcke, was allowed to institute the first Jagdstaffel. Dubbed Jastas for short, Boelcke’s vision was to assign single-seater scouts to their own squadrons (they had previously been distributed among observation squadrons), with the flexibility to prey upon enemy aircraft. They were removed from observation duty (although they did often protect observation planes) and were unleashed on French and British aircraft. Prior to Boelcke’s innovation, single-seater planes were assigned to observation squadrons, and the pilots were allowed to go out and harass enemy planes on a limited basis. Boelcke’s re conception unleashed "hunting squadrons" on the unprepared enemy. Although it seems very basic to us, but in 1916, barely a decade after the first recorded flight, it was a radical departure from previous airplane usage. Naturally, the change was helped by the invention of the "interrupter gear," which allowed machine guns to fire through a propeller’s blades.
19-199 AUTOGRAPHED SANKE CARD Nr 519 - RITTMEISTER MANFRED FREIHERR von RICHTHOFE
N.
19-82 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH AND AUTOGRAPH OF RITTMEISTER MANFRED FREIHERR von RICHTHOFEN. Arguably the single most important autograph coveted by collectors would be that of Rittmeister Manfred Freiherr von Richthofen. The legendary "Red Baron" ("Der Rote Kampfflieger" to the Germans) came to the Imperial German Air Service from the cavalry. He had graduated from military school before the beginning of WW I and had proudly joined an Ulanen Regiment (Ulanen-Regiment Kaiser Alexander III von Rußland (Westpreußisches) Nr 1). Beginning WW I on the Eastern Front, von Richthofen quickly realized that this would not be a war of cavalry charges--of men and their noble steeds facing the enemy, then charging with drawn swords. As the situation rapidly deteriorated to trench warfare, he realized that to charge this enemy he needed a "horse" with wings. Thus he sent a very impertinent letter to his commanding general requesting transfer to the Air Service. After all, he had not joined the cavalry to deliver cheeses! [Pretty cheeky for a young leutnant from the minor nobility in eastern Prussia]. Nevertheless, von Richthofen got his request and received his transfer.
Manfred Von Richthofen started his career first as an observer, then wrangled his way into pilot training. His first efforts as a pilot were not exactly successful; he managed to crash his airplane! He did finally pass the course and was assigned to a squadron. At some point after this, Germanys finest, most successful pilot, Oswald Boelcke, was allowed to institute the first Jagdstaffel. Dubbed Jastas for short, Boelckes idea was that single-seater scouts would be assigned to their own squadrons and have the flexibility to prey upon enemy aircraft. They were removed from observation duty (although they did often protect observation planes) and were unleashed on French and British aircraft. Prior to this single-seater planes were assigned to observation squadrons, and on a limited basis the pilots had been allowed to go out and harass enemy planes. Boelckes concept went far beyond this. He unleashed "hunting squadrons" on the unprepared enemy. This seems very basic to us but in 1916, barely a decade after the first recorded flight, this was a radical departure from what airplane usage had been prior to that time. Of course this change was heralded by the invention of the "interrupter gear," which allowed machine guns to fire through the blades of a propeller.
As Boelcke organized his new squadron, he sought out eager young pilots whom he could mold to this new type of combat. His star pupil was, of course, Manfred von Richthofen. He was even once asked who his best pilot was and who held the greatest promise. Boelcke without a bit of hesitation indicated that it was von Richthofen. Boelcke was killed in a collision with one of his own pilots in October 1916. Von Richthofen witnessed this terrible event where his mentor perished with 40 confirmed victories to his credit. At the time of his death Boelcke had more than DOUBLE the number of his closest contemporarys kills. Manfred von Richthofen achieved his 16th victory in January 1917, and was awarded the coveted Pour le Mérite. He was assigned his own Jasta (Jasta 11), which to that point had been an under performing unit. Under his command a quick turnaround soon produced such famous aces as Kurt Wolff, Karl-Emil Schäfer, Karl Allmenröder, Ernst Udet, and Lothar von Richthofen. Such was Manfred von Richthofens success that he was given command of the first Fighter Wing, JG 1 (Jagdgeschwader Nr 1). This unit (made up of Jastas 4, 6, 10, and 11) with its brightly colored planes (including Manfred von Richthofens red Albatros D. Va and Fokker Dr 1 planes) became the "Flying Circus."
Manfred von Richthofen was shot down in July 1917. He narrowly avoided death as he was shot in the head. The reality was that while he took several months to recover he was never the same person. He became morose, brooding and certain that he would not survive the war. He had seen most of the pilots noted above whom he had commanded fall in combat. His flying became erratic. Although he continued to do his duty, this was not the same Manfred von Richthofen of October 1916-July 1917. Finally, in April 1918 he attained his 80th victory. He was put forward for the award of the Pour le Mérite with Oak Leaves. This was denied and he was instead awarded the Order of the Red Eagle 3rd Class with Crown and Swords. General Erich von Ludendorff, von Hindenburgs right arm, scoffed at this denial, saying von Richthofen was worth more than a division for what he did.
Finally, on 21 April 1918, what von Richthofen had felt was coming caught up with him. He was shot down while pursuing what he felt was an easy score. Arguments rage to this day whether he was shot down by RAF pilot Roy Brown or Australian machine gunners on the ground. Like his hero Boelcke, who had a squadron named after him on his death (Jasta Boelcke) JG 1 was renamed for Richthofen. It was even carried forward as an elite unit in the Luftwaffe during WW II.
Now that we have properly set the stage, today we offer you an original photograph (mounted on postcard stock) of Manfred von Richthofen in a formal parade that contains his autograph. This photograph shows a number of men in formation in stahlhelms before a number of senior officers, including generals. If one looks closely, the second man with a stahlhelm is none other than Manfred von Richthofen. He is wearing his famous Ulanka (tunic for an Ulanen) and on the tunic one can see his Prussian Pilots Badge. He is standing ramrod straight at attention. Below him his name can be clearly seen in black ink. The signature is quite clear and distinctive. I do not know at what point in the war this photograph was taken. This item is of particular interest as it is an ORIGINAL photograph, as opposed to one of the popular Sanke Cards that von Richthofen signed in great numbers. A story goes that the adjutant of JG 1 used to go into the country with a stack of the Rittmeisters signed cards and traded them for food and wine! This is an excellent opportunity to acquire an autograph of the most famous airman of WW I, and one of Germanys leading military heroes, no matter what era. $3,995.00. . Reduced to $3,495.00!!
Max Immelmann
14-138 FRAMED PHOTOGRAPH OF MAX IMMELMANN. This is a simply marvelous larger format portrait photograph of Max Immelmann. The photograph measures 7 1/4" x 3 1/4" and is uniquely mounted in a period frame that would have hung from a wall and measures 12" x 8 1/4." The photograph is an original of one of the most popular of the Sanke Cards produced of Immelmann. It has him standing wearing a bayonet, Iron Cross 1st Class, Prussian Pilot Badge, and a five-place medal bar. He is also holding his visor cap in his hands. This photo was most likely given to a family member or friend as it is signed in black on the obverse: "Max Dez. 1915." This would have been taken the month before he received the PLM. The portrait photograph is placed in the frame in a way that creates a shadow box effect. The frame, as mentioned previously, is a period type and the wood is brown. Between the brown molding and the gilt trim of the shadow box is a brown velvet that adds to the distinctive look of the frame. $2,495.00
Autographed
Photos - Signatures:
Other Orden Pour le Mérite Winners
19-23 SIGNED ORIGINAL WW II PHOTOGRAPH AND TRANSMITTAL LETTER OF ALFRED KELLER. An interesting original photograph of Generaloberst Alfred Keller. It is signed by Keller and it is accompanied by a brief note from an aide who forwarded it to a well-wisher for Keller. Keller is wearing both his Pour le Mérite and Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. A nice WW II era pair. $295.00
16-03 AUTOGRAPHED PHOTO OF ALFRED KELLER. Reproduction Hoffmann Card from WW II. Keller commanded a Squadron of Bombers during WW I which was highly successful in bombing Allied targets (Paris). He was a Generaloberst in WW II in the Luftwaffe, and one of the few airmen who received both the Pour le Mérite (12/4/17) and the Knights Cross. Post WW II signature. $85.00
19-24 SIGNED PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPH OF HERMANN KÖHL. Hermann Köhl was a pilot early in the war. He was later transferred to a bomber squadron where he was very successful in his efforts against the French. His award was made in May 1918. Interestingly, he was shot down and interred in a POW camp until 1919. He was involved in aviation in post WW I Germany. He was well-known as he made a East to West crossing of the Atlantic in 1918 (this was more difficult than the Lindbergh flight since when one flies from Europe to the U.S. the flying is slower due to fighting head winds). He died in 1938. The portrait photo shows him in a civilian suit and is clearly signed on the obverse. $295.00
Signed
Photos - Signatures:
Army Aviators
-
Kaiserliche Marine,
Marine-Infanterie, See-Battalion, etc.
This is a consignment item. It is a photograph of Felix Graf von Luckner. Luckner led an interesting life, beginning with running away from home, then traveling around the world getting into one adventure after another. During WW I, he gained fame when he commanded a "Q" ship (a sailing ship). His ship captured and sank many allied ships before it was finally sunk. Even then, von Luckner refused to sit quietly in captivity and escaped. This photograph, which measures 6" x 4 1/4," shows him in his gala dress uniform. He sports TWO medal bars and many decorations on his tunic. His bold signature appears at the photo’s bottom. $95.00
19-193 XES AUTOGRAPHED PHOTOGRAPH - FELIX GRAF von LUCKNER.
19-182 XLL FRAMED AUTOGRAPHED MONTAGE - KAPITÄNLEUTNANT OTTO WEDDIGEN.
19-210 PHOTOGRAPH - AUTOGRAPH - NOTED GERMAN MARINE ARTIST HANS BOHRDT. Both before and during WW I, Hans Bohrdt (1857-1945) was one of Germany’s best-known marine artists. He was born in Berlin. At the age of 15 he visited Hamburg and had his first taste of life involving the sea. He was self-taught. In the 1890's he caught Kaiser Wilhelm II’s attention, who soon became Bohrdt’s patron. Bohrdt even accompanied the Kaiser on some of the S. M. Y. Hohenzollern’s cruises. Bohrdt’s output was prolific during WW I, and along with Professor Willy Stöwer, he was among the best-known depictors of German naval warfare. Perhaps his best-known wartime painting depicts the Battle of the Falklands. The battle, which took place on 8 December 1914, saw the German East Asian Squadron destroyed by the English. Almost 1,900 sailors lost their lives, including the fleet commander, Vize Admiral Graf Maximilian von Spee, and his two sons. This painting shows a single German sailor who has had his ship shot from under him. He stands on the wreckage of his ship and defiantly thrusts a kriegsflagge in the air. It is rumored that the sailor belonged to the crew of the Nürnberg, whose members preferred to go down with their ship, flags in hand, rather than surrender to the British. Bohrdt saw great success from 1890 through 1918. When his royal patron was exiled to the Netherlands, and military-themed artwork stirred up too many unpleasant memories, Bohrdt fell from popularity in Germany. Today we are offering a photo of Bohrdt in a marine-themed uniform complete with binoculars. He also appears to be wearing the Kaiserlicher Yacht Club’s visor cap. It is perfectly logical that the membership committee would have invited him to join the club due to his relationship with the club’s Commodore (Kaiser Wilhelm II). Below Bohrdt’s photo is a large clipped signature. These two items are presented in a green matte that measures 10 3/4" x 6 3/4." The photograph and signature are displayed from windows within the matte. The photograph measures 5 1/2" x 3 1/4." The signature, which is large and bold in black ink, measures 2 1/4" x 4 1/4." $225.00
Signatures:
Imperial
German Army
19-79 DOCUMENT GROUPING WITH SIGNATURES OF GENERALFELDMARSCHALL PAUL von HINDENBURG. This is a most unusual grouping of three documents from Generalfeldmarschall and Reichspräsident of the Weimar Republic, Paul von Hindenburg. These documents are housed in a large-format official stationary envelope from the Office of the Präsident. The letter is addressed to a Generalleutnant von der Lippe of Oldenburg. Inside the impressive envelope we see two letters typed on the stationary of the Reichspräsident. One is addressed to von der Lippe in Oldenburg, where he was the head of a veterans association for members of Oldenburg Infantry-Regiment Nr 91. A cordial letter to von der Lippe is signed boldly by von Hindenburg. The second letter in the envelope is addressed to a Generalmajor von Hohnhorst. At the point that the letters were written in 1926 and 1931, both of these generals had retired from the army. The third item in the envelope is really interesting. It is a wartime telegram from the Grand Duke of Oldenburg, Friedrich August, to von Hindenburg on 10 May 1918. In it the Grand Duke congratulates von Hindenburg for his efforts, and expresses appreciation for the fine use of his regiment (Infantry-Regiment Nr 91). Von Hindenburg's initials can be seen at the telegrams top, indicating that he had read it. It was passed down to other members of his staff, and possibly to the commander of Infantry-Regiment Nr 91. I would say that von Hindenburg pulled this from the files/archives and enclosed it for the veterans group to show what their former Grand Duke had written. This is an exciting piece of history, featuring two signed letters from von Hindenburg, along with an original telegram received in the last five months of WW I. $595.00. .
19-80 TWO SIGNED LETTERS FROM GENERALFELDMARSCHALL AND REICHSPRÄSIDENT PAUL von HINDENBURG. These are two letters that were sent to Generalleutnant von der Lippe. These two letters bear the bold, clear, and large signatures of Generalfeldmarschall and Reichspräsident Paul von Hindenburg. They were sent to von der Lippe on the official stationary and envelope of the Reichspräsident. They cover matters related to an Oldenburg veterans group for Infantry-Regiment Nr 91, headed by von der Lippe. This presents a fine opportunity to have TWO signatures of one of Germanys most important and beloved military commanders from WW I. He was also the last man to lead Germany before the advent of Adolf Hitler. Both are in very fine condition. $495.00. .
19-211 XWW DELUXE FRAMED PRESENTATION - PERSONAL LETTER - PAUL von HINDENBUR
G - NEPHEW. This is a consignment item. Paul von Hindenburg (1847-1934) was one of German history’s most noted generals and politicians. When WW I began, he actually was in retirement (since 1911). He was recalled to active service and was the commander at the Battle of Tannenberg on the Eastern Front in 1914. He was promoted to Generalfeldmarschall and received every major decoration that Germany could offer. These included the Orden Pour le Mérite, the Pour le Mérite with Oak Leaves, and the 1914 Grand Cross of the Iron Cross. He went on to become the Chief of all Armies on the Western Front in 1916. He and his alter ego, Erich Ludendorff, ran the German war effort until the November 1918 surrender. He retired yet again, but was persuaded to run for the office of President of the Weimar Republic. He did this in 1925, then ran for a second term in 1932. He died in 1934 and was succeeded Adolf Hitler, his infamous Chancellor. While autographs of von Hindenburg are fairly plentiful, those from the WW I period are much more difficult-to-find. It is even more challenging to find his signature on a personal letter. This is what we are offering today. It is a handwritten letter on Großes Hauptquartier stationery. The letter is dated 27 November 1916. It was written to his nephew, congratulating him on his award of the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The letter’s tone conveys an uncle’s pride in his nephew’s achievements. The letter closes with "Your very busy Uncle Paul v. Hindenburg." The letter measures 4 3/4" x 5 3/4. " It appears in a double-matted window. Directly above it is a very small double-matted window that displays a von Hindenburg postage stamp. Directly above the postage stamp is a double-matted postcard. It features an early-war von Hindenburg, when he was still a generaloberst. All of this is housed in a black, custom molded frame that sports an interior gold trim. It measures 23" x 15 1/4." The entire presentation was purchased from the Raab Collection. The latter company deals in high-end photographs. Their statement of authenticity accompanies the presentation. It is a most unusual and significant letter from one of Germany’s greatest heroes. $1,395.00
Remus von Woyrsch (1847-1920) was in retirement at the outbreak of WW I. Like many key officers (including Paul von Hindenburg), he was recalled to service. During WW I, he served on the Eastern Front and held the rank of Generaloberst. He commanded Armee-Gruppe Woyrsch. Later in the war his command was dissolved and he retired. At his retirement he was advanced one rank, as was the German Army’s practice, and became a Generalfeldmarschall. Today we are offering an autographed postcard of the general. He is in uniform wearing a PLM at his throat. If you look carefully, you will see a two-place medal bar with an 1870 Iron Cross 2nd Class with Oak Leaves. Not only did he serve in the 1870/71 Franco-Prussian War, but he served as a young officer in the 1866 Austro-Prussian War. During WW I he reported to Austrians early in the war, and had a large number of Austrians in his command later. When asked about his Austrian troops, he replied that they had learned little since 1866! His signature on the obverse is bold and signed in black ink. We can see his name and the rank of Generalfeldmarschall (his retirement rank) and the date 3 October 1918. This was then mailed the following day from Breslau. Both card and autograph are in excellent condition. $450.00
19-176 AUTOGRAPHED POSTCARD - GENERALOBERST von WOYRSCH.
19-185 AUTOGRAPHED LETTER - GENERAL FELDMARSCHALL LEONHARD GRAF von
BLUMENT
HAL.
19-186 AUTOGRAPHED LETTER - GENERAL der INFANTERIE FRIEDRICH WILHELM GRAF
von BÜLOW DENNEWITZ.
19-187 AUTOGRAPHED LETTER - GENERALFELDMARSCHALL GRAF ALFRED von
WALDERSE
E.
19-162 SIGNED LETTER AND ENVELOPE - GENERALOBERST
ALEXANDER von KLUCK.
12-360 LARGE FORMAT WARTIME AUTOGRAPHED PHOTOGRAPH OF A POUR LE MÉRITE WINNER. This is a very pleasing large format photograph of Oberstleutnant Friedrich Ritter von Haack. Von Haack was a Bavarian who was assigned to the General Staff of the Bavarian I. Armeekorps. His award of the coveted Orden Pour le Mérite (PLM) came on 4 August 1918 for his planning while on the General Staff. He is wearing the PLM in the photo. His signature and personalization appear on the photos reverse. This photo was taken shortly after his award. The personalization was dated 30 August 1918, a mere twenty-six days after his award. Von Haack was also awarded the Knights Cross of the Bavarian Military Max Joseph in April 1918, which carried with it an automatic elevation to knighthood. This is a very fine photograph and personalization to a man who won the highest military awards that both Prussia and Bavaria could offer. $250.00
. .
![]()
Links
to Our Pages
Der Rittmeister Content Pages:
Click here
for our Home Page |
Click for the Order Information Page |
Click here for Our Biography Page |
Click here to Meet the late, great Jack Hunter |