Der
Rittmeister Militaria, LLC, Imperial German Merchandise Page 19:
Photos: Signed Photographs and Documents, etc. of Imperial German
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Signatures of Imperial German Royalty
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
20-143 FRAMED COLLAGE - KAISER WILHELM I - 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
19-115 RED EAGLE ORDER 2nd CLASS AWARD DOCUMENT SIGNED - KING WILHELM I (LATER KAISER WILHELM I) - PRUSSIA. 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
20-97 FRAMED OFFICERS PATENT WITH THE SIGNATURE OF KAISER WILH
ELM II. The signature of Kaiser Wilhelm II is always sought-after by collectors. His bold and distinctive signature is handsome. When seen on a complete Urkunde or Promotion Patent, it makes a wonderful way to have a signature of Germanys third and final Kaiser. Today, we offer an attractively double-matted presentation of a document bearing Wilhelm IIs signature. The document is for a Hauptmann von Busse, who had served as a premier (forerunner of an oberleutnant) lieutenant in Füsilier-Regiment Prinz Heinrich von Preußen (Brandenburgisches) Nr 35. This regiment was founded in 1813. Along with his promotion he was posted to Grenadier-Regiment König Friedrich III (2. Schlesisches) Nr 11, which was founded in 1808. Doing a spot of research, I believe I have found our man in the 1914-1918 Rangeliste. There was an Oberst Busse, who served as the Adjutant of XX. Armeekorps. He later retired from the army as a Generalmajor a.D. The document is dated 15 November 1894 and bears the bold signature of the Kaiser. We can see a slight smudge in his signatures ink. Alongside his signature we see the large embossed coat-of-arms for the House of Hohenzollern. The document appears in its own double matted "window." A black and white lithograph of Wilhelm II is displayed in a second "window." Below that is a third window with the Kaisers name. The custom-framed presentation (modern-day) measures 21 ½" x 19 ½." As an historical aside, most Officer Promotion Patents for the rank of hauptmann and above were personally signed by the Kaiser. Those below that rank generally were not signed by him. They were prepared in the same basic format, showing the mans name, unit, former rank and the rank to which he was being promoted. This is a great way to display a signature for Wilhelm II. All you need is a hook on the wall, and you are ready to go! Extra shipping required on this item. $850.00 . . .
20-171 AWARD DOCUMENT - CROWN ORDER 3rd CLASS - SIGNED BY KAISER WILHELM II - PRUSSIA. 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
19-163 PRE WWI AUTOGRAPHED POSTCARD - 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
31-33
GENERALMAJOR PROMOTION PATENT - KING FRIEDRICH WILHELM IV’S TIME - PRUSSIA.
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
19-121 DOCUMENT FOR A YOUNG LEUTNANT- SIGNED BY KING FRIEDRICH WILHELM III - PRUSSIA. This is a letter dated 5 June 1819 from King Friedrich Wilhelm III (1770-1840). Friedrich Wilhelm III was the King of Prussia (1797-1840) during the Napoleonic Wars. The Iron Cross was first authorized during his reign. The letter deals with a Premiereleutnant Graf Haugwitz, who was serving on the Prussian General Staff. The letter is on velum. Friedrich Wilhelm III’s signature is clear. It was signed on the letter after it was prepared for him. $375.00
19-122 DOCUMENT FOR A YOUNG LEUTNANT - SIGNED BY KING FRIEDRICH WILHELM IV - 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
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.
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.
19-172 AUTOGRAPHED PHOTOGRAPH - GENERAL-FELDMARSCHALL GOTTLEIB GRAF von
HAESLER.
This is a wonderful autographed portrait of Generalfeldmarschall
Gottleib Graf von Haesler (1836-1919). Von Haesler first joined the army in
1853. He served in the 1864 Danish-Prussian War, 1866 Austro-Prussian War, and
the 1870-1871 Franco-Prussian War. As a General der Kavallerie, von Haesler
served as the commander of the 16. ArmeeKorps from 1890-1903. He was promoted to
Generalfeldmarschall in 1905. This photograph from 1908 shows him in a
generalfeldmarschall’s uniform. The photo is inscribed and signed in a clear,
bold hand. He has a PLM at his neck and an 1870 Iron Cross 1st Class on his
tunic. While not on active duty during WW I, he was often called the oldest
German general of the war. At the outbreak of the war in 1914, von Haesler was
seventy-eight years old. He lived until his mid-80's.
$250.00
31-77 AWARD DOCUMENT - PRINZ KARL ALEXANDER - THURN UND TAXIS.
19-159 AUTOGRAPHED THANK YOU CARD - ENVELOPE - KRONPRINZ
WILHELM - PRUSSIA.

19-160 CONDOLENCE THANK YOU CARD FROM PRINZ LOUIS FERDINAND - PRUSSIA - FOR HIS FATHER KRONPRINZ WILHELM - 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. $115.00
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.
19-165 AUTOGRAPHED POSTCARD - PRINZ EITEL FRIEDRICH von PREUßEN. 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
19-92 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 .
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
19-154 FRAMED PHOTOGRAPH - KAISER WILHELM II, OTTO von BISMARCK AND KÜRAßIER TROOPS WITH THE SIGNATURE OF von BISMARCK. If one looks at Otto von Bismarck’s (1813-1898) assorted photographs, one occasionally sees him wearing a küraßier officer’s uniform and/or helmet. Here we have a collage of two photographs, with von Bismarck’s clipped signature in the center. The two photographs are placed above and below his signature. I do not know with which Küraßier-Regiment he was associated; however, as I continue with the description, you will see the connection. Otto von Bismarck celebrated his 80th birthday on 1 April 1895. A special birthday celebration was held for the occasion, hosted by Kaiser Wilhelm II himself. The two photographs I am about to describe are ORIGINAL. They each measure 4" x 6 1/8," and are of the highest-quality. They are matted in individual windows, which highlights them even more. The upper photograph depicts a küraßier troop parade. Alighting from a carriage is none other than Kaiser Wilhelm II, wearing a küraßier officer’s helmet and uniform. Under the photograph is the legend "Friedrichsruher Fesstage Marz-April 1895." The second photograph shows von Bismarck standing in front of his house. He is flanked by küraßiers. Several of the troops are mounted on horses in front of him. Bismarck is holding his massive sword (it is displayed today in a museum nearby that honors him). The photograph is similarly marked to the one above. As previously mentioned, a third window measuring 1 1/4" x 2 1/2," lies between these two photos. Within the window’s frame is von Bismarck’s clipped autograph, written in bold black ink. The overall frame measures 15 3/4" x 10 3/4." PLEASE NOTE: It is a modern-day frame, NOT a period frame. This is a superb presentation honoring Germany’s most famous Chancellor and politician. It is ready to hang on your wall. $695.00
19-151 AUTOGRAPHED POSTCARD OF GRAND DUCHESS FEODORA - SAXE-WEIMAR. This postcard shows the Grand Duchess Feodora of Saxe-Weimar. She was the wife of Grand Duke Wilhelm Ernst and she is seen with her young son Prinz Bernhardt-Friedrich. The postcard has been personalized and autographed by Feodora and is dated 1918. $95.00
Signatures of the Imperial German Air Service
Manfred von Richthofen
19-149 ORIGINAL BIPLANE PHOTOGRAPH - AUTOGRAPHED - MANFRED FREIH
ERR von RICHTHOFEN. Arguably, the most famous fighter-pilot of all time is Rittmeister Manfred Freiherr von Richthofen. He indelibly imbued the emerging military "art" of air combat with his dynamic spirit and ferocious pursuit of the enemy. At the same time, he achieved a "celebrity/hero" status in Imperial Germany (and abroad) akin to the frenzied worship accorded rock stars in the late 20th and early 21st Centuries. His is THE most-coveted autograph among such collectors. "Der Rote Kampfflieger (Red Baron)" came to the Imperial German Air Service from the cavalry. He graduated from military school before WW I began, and proudly joined the Ulanen-Regiment Kaiser Alexander III von Rußland (Westpreußisches) Nr 1. After a quick taste of World War I on the Eastern Front, von Richthofen quickly realized 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, the Baron realized he needed to attack this enemy on a "winged horse." 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! [Quite cheeky for a young leutnant from minor East Prussian nobility]. Nevertheless, von Richthofen received his transfer. Manfred Von Richthofen started his career as an observer, then wrangled his way into pilots’ 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. At some point after this, Germany’s premier pilot, Oswald Boelcke, was authorized to institute the first Jagdstaffel (Jasta Nr 2, after his death it became known as Jasta Boelcke). Dubbed Jastas for short, Boelcke’s idea was that single-seater scouts form their own squadrons, and retain the flexibility to prey upon enemy aircraft. They were removed from observation duty (although they often protected observation planes), and unleashed on French and British aircraft. Previously, single-seater planes had been assigned to observation squadrons. Their pilots had been allowed to harass enemy planes on a limited basis. Boelcke’s concept went far beyond this. He thrust "hunting squadrons" on the unprepared enemy. It seems very basic to us now, but in 1916, barely a decade after the first recorded flight, it was a radical departure from prior airplane usage. The change was heralded by the invention of the "interrupter gear," which allowed machine guns to fire through an airplane propeller’s blades. As Boelcke organized his new squadron, he sought out eager young pilots whom he could mold for this new type of combat. His star pupil, of course, was Manfred von Richthofen. When asked the name of his best, most promising pilot, Boelcke unhesitatingly indicated von Richthofen. Boelcke collided with one of his own pilots in October 1916 and died with 40 confirmed victories to his credit. Von Richthofen witnessed his mentor’s tragic. At the time of his death, Boelcke had more than DOUBLE the number of his closest contemporary’s kills. Manfred von Richthofen achieved his 16th victory in January 1917, and was awarded the coveted Orden Pour le Mérite. He was assigned his own Jasta (Jasta Nr 11). It had been an underperforming unit to that point. Under his command the Jasta experienced a quick turnaround and soon was producing such famous aces as Kurt Wolff, Karl-Emil Schäfer, Karl Allmenröder, Ernst Udet, and von Richthofen’s brother, Lothar. Such was Manfred von Richthofen’s success that he was given command of the first Fighter Wing, JG 1 (Jagdgeschwader Nr 1). The unit (made up of Jastas 4, 6, 10, and 11), with its brightly-colored planes (including Manfred’s red Albatros D. Va and Fokker Dr 1 planes) became the "Flying Circus." Manfred von Richthofen was shot down in July 1917. He was shot in the head, narrowly avoiding death. The reality was, although he took several months to recover, he never returned to the person he had been before the accident. He became morose, brooding, and certain he would not survive the war. He had seen most of the pilots whom he had commanded (noted above) fall in combat. His flying became erratic. Although he continued to do his duty, he was not the same Manfred von Richthofen as he had been from October 1916 through July 1917. In April 1918, he attained his 80th victory. He was nominated for the award of the Pour le Mérite with Oak Leaves. This was denied. Instead, he was awarded the Order of the Red Eagle 3rd Class, with Crown and Swords. General Erich von Ludendorff, von Hindenburg’s right arm and Chief-of-Staff, scoffed at the denial, saying von Richthofen was worth more than a division for what he did. Finally, on 21 April 1918, the event von Richthofen feared caught up with him. He was shot down while pursuing what he felt was an easy score, a novice British pilot. Arguments rage on to this day about whether he was shot down by RAF pilot Roy Brown, or Australian machine gunners on the ground. Just as his hero Boelcke had a squadron named in his memory (Jasta Boelcke), von Richthofen was honored when JG 1 was renamed (Jagdgeschwader Freiherr von Richthofen.) The Luftwaffe carried it forward as an elite unit during World War II. A German Air Force squadron remains named in von Richthofen’s memory to this day. Our offering today is an autographed original photograph. The photograph measures 4 1/2" x 6 1/2." It is an interesting subject, depicting a German observation plane in flight against heavy cloud cover. The photograph clearly was taken from another airplane. Manfred von Richthofen’s signature is boldly signed in black ink on the clouds under the airplane. It is von Richthofen’s classic signature, "Freiherr v. Richthofen - Rittmeister." Both the photograph and signature are in excellent condition. The photograph’s reverse clearly reveals it was once pasted into a photo album. It is an unusual presentation of his signature. His signatures on Sanke and other postcards are more commonly seen. I can tell you without hesitation that a signature on an original photograph is always more valuable than an autograph on a postcard, even when the photograph does not actually contain the subject’s face. We are very pleased to offer this to you today. $3,995.00
NM
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 and Signatures of 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
Assorted Signed Photos of Army Aviators
Signatures of the Kaiserliche Marine (Navy), Marine-Infanterie, & See-Battalion
This is an autographed postcard of the famous "Seeteufel (Sea Devil)," Felix Graf von Luckner (1881-1966). The postcard shows him as he appeared in the 1950's or 1960's. It is an interesting pose. He is tearing a phone book in half. He was always a man of great strength. It is reputed that he once tore a New York phone book in half. He also had the strength to bend a coin in the fingers of one hand. His signature is seen at the bottom of the postcard in black ink. $95.00
19-156 AUTOGRAPHED POSTCARD - FELIX GRAF von LUCKNER.
This is an original photograph of an Oberst in the Marine-Infanterie. The photograph is printed on postcard stock. It is an excellent uniform study. Looking at the uniform, not only does he wear an oberst’s shoulder boards, but he has four full stripes, which makes him equivalent in rank to a Kapitän zur See. Also note the Hohenzollern Crown on his sleeve. He is wearing an Iron Cross 1st Class, and the ribbon for the Iron Cross 2nd Class in his buttonhole. He has signed the photograph on the reverse. His regiment is identified. His name was Karl von Hornhardt. He commanded the 3. Matrosen-Regiment in Flanders. The photograph is dated January 1916. $65.00
19-157 OBERST AND REGIMENTAL COMMANDER ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH AND AUTOGRAPH - MARINE-INFANTERIE.
Signatures of the 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. .

19-162 SIGNED LETTER AND ENVELOPE - GENERALOBERST ALEXANDER von KLUCK.
This is a signed letter from Generaloberst Alexander von Kluck (1846-1934). Von Kluck was the commander of Germany’s I. Armee early in WW I. He, along with II. Armee commander von Bülow, led the attack on Paris. It faltered when the German lines were overextended. The letter is dated 1925. It is written in von Kluck’s own hand, and bears his bold signature. The envelope, which was also penned by him, comes with the letter. It is dated 1925, in Charlottenburg. A clipping from a newspaper showing von Kluck is included. $175.00
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
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12-281 AUTOGRAPHED PHOTOGRAPH OF GENERAL von DIRINGSHOFEN. A fine large format photograph of General Max von Diringshofen. He achieved the rank of Generalleutnant during WW I and commanded Infantry Brigade Nr 42. This photo is large format (5 3/4" x 7 3/4") and is mounted on a matte that is 9 1/4" x 13". The bottom of the matted area features a large personalized greeting and a bold signature of the General dated 1915/1916. The photograph shows the General seated in a chair wearing his uniform and the single pip of a Generalleutnant is clearly seen on his shoulder board. A Red Eagle with Swords is worn about his neck, a 1914 EK 2 is looped through the buttonhole of his tunic and a 1914 EK 1, Breast Star, etc. are on his chest. If you ever wondered what a Junker General should look like, take a close look at this chap! $250.00
19-148 COLORIZED POSTCARD - SIGNATURE - PRINZ EITEL FRIEDRICH von PREUßEN.
CW
This is a card that measures 4 1/4" x 6." It depicts a Bavarian country estate. On the reverse is Kronprinz Ruprecht of Bavaria’s autograph. The card was sent to an admirer in 1949, thanking him for his good wishes on the occasion of Ruprecht’s 80th birthday. The signature is bold and in black ink. Ruprecht was the son of Ludwig III, Bavaria’s final king. After his father’s death, Ruprecht became the Pretender to Bavaria’s throne, and the head of the Wittelsbach family. During WW I, Ruprecht was a Generalfeldmarschall and commanded an Armeegruppe. He was one of the most effective of the German military commanders, and directed large bodies of troops from 1914-1918. $125.00
19-174 AUTOGRAPHED CARD - KRONPRINZ RUPRECHT - BAVARIA.
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