Der Rittmeister Militaria, LLC. Imperial German Merchandise, Page 15: Imperial German Uniforms & Related Accessories: Uniforms, Tunics, Ulankas, Attilas, Feldgrau uniforms, Belts and Buckles, Shooting & Uniform Badges, Uniform Accoutrements, etc. Updated on 2 September 2010.
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Tunics - Tunic Groupings

General Officers - Royalty

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15-490 M-1915 FELDBLUSE FELDGRAU TUNIC - GENERALARZT - PRUSSIA. We are always pleased to bring you feldgrau tunics. It is an especially good day for us when we offer an example that once belonged to a general. This example is a very different sort of tunic. It was once the property of a “Generalarzt,” that is, a doctor who was also a general officer. I can assure you, the German Army, did NOT have many generals who were doctors. A man in this rank would have been assigned at a very high level, perhaps at an Armee or Armee Gruppe. He might also have been on staff at the high command. It would not have been for a man out in the field. He would have overseen medical services at a very high level. The tunic is a M-1915 Feldbluse. This tunic is completely different from other tunic types (including the M-1910) in that all of its center buttons are hidden from view behind a flap. This presents a smooth exterior. A total of six gray buttons hides beneath the flap. The cuffs feature no adornment, either. The tunic does not have conventional general officer’s leitzen mounted on a different shade of (darker) gray collar. Instead, the leitzen are silver and bullion, with a dark-blue background trimmed in red. The shoulder boards are quite large. They are of the subdued M-1915 variety for use on feldgrau tunics. They consist of silver bullion interwoven with black cords. Their centers boast gilt caducei. The shoulder boards’ underlays are the same blue that we see on the leitzen. They are of the slip-on variety. A small, subdued button holds them in place. The tunic’s left breast displays two sets of sewn-in loops. The loops could have held a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class or the EK 1st Class equivalent from another state. [In our photos we show an Iron Cross 1st Class attached. It is an example ONLY, and does NOT come with the tunic]. A five-place ribbon bar sits above the sewn-in loops. Five loops are present and the one on the end is not utilized. It is possible that the ribbon bar is not original to the tunic. This is the way I received it, however, so this is how I am offering it to you. The tunic’s reverse shows two more subdued buttons in the vent area. The tunic’s exterior condition is very pleasing. Some limited areas of moth tracking appear, but no full nips that I can detect. Inside the tunic is a full cotton liner, rather than silk. I surmise it is a late-war tunic based on several details, and its wool. It is not the same buttery feldgrau material that one sees in WW I’s early and mid years. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a general medical officer’s feldgrau tunic. $5,995.00

15-202 HELLGRAU LITEWKA FOR A GENERALLEUTNANT - PRUSSIA. This is an unusual tunic for a generalleutnant in the Prussian Army prior to the outbreak of WW I. The color hellgrau (sky-gray) was a blue-gray used in addition to the more commonly seen feldgrau (field-gray, which means it has more green mixed with the gray). This tunic is in the litewka style, i.e., double-breasted with a double row (six to a side) of gilt-toned buttons. The tunic is trimmed in red with piping on the sleeves, etc. The tunic also has red collar leitzen as opposed to the later gold-embroidered leitzen. The shoulder boards are of the slip-on variety which is customary on higher ranking officer tunics. They are for a Prussian Generalleutnant and display a single pip on each shoulder board. This rank would be equivalent to a Major General in the U.S. Army. A generalleutnant would have been a division commander before the war. Once the war began he might have commanded an Armeekorps of two or more divisions. He might also have been on staff and not a line-commander. No loops are sewn on the tunic for the display of awards or decorations. The interior has a fine silk liner which is complete and in excellent condition. Generally, this tunic is in good condition. It has 3-5 small moth nips that are not detractive to the overall presentation. Also, a seam has separated about an inch or so by the first button. It can be sewn back together once one gets beneath the inner lining. {In fact, when the tunic is buttoned, the separation cannot be seen at all. So, if you are displaying the tunic on a mannequin, you do not need to bother sewing up the seam}. This is a splendid tunic that I bought quite reasonably. I am offering it to you today at a good price. $4,495.00 . .

 

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15-524 ÜBERROCK - GENERALLEUTNANT - PRUSSIA. This is a generalleutnant’s überrock (frock coat). These tunics were most commonly seen and used prior to 1905. The tunic is dark-blue (dunkel-blau) in color. The collar is red and displays NO leitzen (as do later tunics). A double row of six gilt buttons (twelve buttons in all) runs down the tunic’s front. No buttons appear at the cuffs, just single, thin, red trim lines. Its shoulders sport a pair of sewn-in Prussian Generalleutnant’s shoulder boards. Each shoulder board displays a single gilt pip. (Each pip shows substantial wear and fading, but both are clearly gilt).  The reverse’s vent boasts four more gilt-toned buttons, and red trim. The tunic interior’s black silk is in beautiful condition. Its exterior displays some scattered mothing. The fourth buttonhole’s surrounding area has a concentration of three noticeable moth nips. The other moth nips are limited and scattered. The right sleeve’s edge also has some fraying and mothing (clearly detailed in the description’s accompanying photographs). It is wonderfully bargain-priced for a general’s tunic. $2,195.00

 

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20-14 COMPLETE FELDGRAU UNIFORM GROUPING FOR PRINZ ALFONS OF BAVARIA. During my many trips to Germany, I have able to turn up several personal items that once belonged to Prinz Alfons of Bavaria (including a magnificent Bavarian General’s Pickelhaube). On this most recent trip I was fortunate to be able to unearth several more items. This incredible Feldgrau uniform grouping, consisting of a frock tunic, matching trousers, and a visor cap, was made for Alfons for his involvement in the Order of St. George.

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Oberst - Oberstleutnant - Major

15-256 INTERIM ATTILA FOR AN OBERSTLEUTNANT - LEIB-HUSAREN-REGIMENT Nr 1 - PRUSSIA. I was quite excited when given the opportunity to buy this tunic. As many of you are aware, we have become more involved in offering tunics from elite units and especially cavalry regiments. I admit that much of this focus comes from an intense, personal interest. At the same time, many of you treasured customers have embraced these offerings, so we continue to scour the market looking for these interesting tunics for you.  In the annals of the German Army, particularly among the cavalry, no regiment draws more attention than 1. Leib-Husaren-Regiment Nr 1. Well possibly the Garde du Corps might but 1. Leib-Husaren-Regiment Nr 1 was a working regiment with a fabled record in war. This is due in part to the use of the Totenkopf on their headdress (both their busbies and visor caps/mutzes). It was also that the two most famous men from the regiment were Generalfeldmarschall August von Mackensen and Krone Prinz Wilhelm. 1. Leib-Husaren-Regiment Nr 1 was raised in 1741 and garrisoned at Danzig-Langfuhr. It was assigned to the XVII. Armeekorps before the beginning of WW I. Its "twin" regiment was 2. Leib-Husaren-Regiment Königin Victoria von Preußen Nr 2, which was created in the same year. It was also based at Danzig-Langfuhr. Even though he rose to the rank of Generalfeldmarschall and commanded an Armee Group during the war, Von Mackensen always thought of himself as a hussar and proudly wore the uniform of a hussar. Most of his famous poses are as a member of 1. Leib-Husaren-Regiment Nr 1. He was a tall, erect man. The sight of him in its attila and busby was most impressive. The Krone Prinz of Prussia also was almost always seen in the tunic of 1. Leib-Husaren-Regiment Nr 1. Both Leib-Husaren-Regiments were older than the Garde-Husaren-Regiment. Being awarded the status of Leib (life guard) put them in the elite category of a Garde-Regiment. Most cavalry regiments were considerably smaller in numbers than infantry regiments, because many cavalry regiment commanders were ranked as oberstleutnants rather than obersts. Today the tunic we are offering is an Interim Attila in the rank of oberstleutnant. While it has no identifying tags for the original owner, this would have belonged to the regimental commander. This is the interim or daily-service tunic. It is NOT the more ornate parade or gala tunic that was worn for high parades and formal affairs. That said, the tunic has a beautiful black exterior. No mothing problems exist with this tunic. It has been well-cared for over the many years since WW I ended. In addition to the black-wool exterior, the tunic has silver frogging and braid that is intertwined with black just like the shoulder boards. The rosettes and toggles are silver and beautifully done. Silver buttons show where the shoulder boards are attached to the tunic. Each shoulder board has a single gilt pip indicating the rank of oberstleutnant. A number of loops on the left breast indicate where a ribbon bar was worn. The distance from the loop on the extreme left to the right is 3 3/4." No other loops appear, so to me this dates the tunic prior to the outbreak of WW I. Of course by 1914, feldgrau attilas were in use, so effectively I date this tunic to the period of 1900 to 1913. The tunic’s interior is every bit as beautiful as its exterior and has a fine silk liner. This is an ultra-rare tunic to a very high-level officer of one of the most elite of all of the Prussian cavalry regiments. $6,195.00 

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15-240 FELDGRAU KLEINER ROCK FOR A MAJOR IN KÜRAßIER-REGIMENT Nr 4 - PRUSSIA. This is one of the most exciting tunics we have offered in quite awhile. It is known as a "Kleiner Rock." This is a handsome, identified tunic for an officer in an armored cavalry regiment. The officer was assigned to Küraßier-Regiment von Dreisen (Westfälisches) Nr 4. This elite regiment was one of the older cavalry regiments. It was raised in 1717 and garrisoned at Münster. The feldgrau tunic is set up as a litewka, a tunic that has a double row of buttons instead of a single row. This tunic is in EXTRAORDINARY condition. The tunic was probably produced in 1914 prior to the beginning of the war. The material is rich and buttery-smooth, and of the highest quality. Some of the feldgrau material available later in the war (even to officers) had a much rougher weave. It just did not have that superior prewar texture. The exterior’s condition is faultless. I can see no mothing whatsoever. As previously stated, this is the litewka tunic style, with a double row of six, silver buttons. A line of red trim accents the cuffs (with no buttons), collar, and the edge of the flap, etc. The collar features white collar tabs trimmed in red, with a large silver button on each tab. The collar itself is a contrasting darker green, which is quite distinct from the tunic’s feldgrau. A major’s shoulder boards are vibrantly in place, with a red and white underlay. On the tunic’s obverse are a set of sewn-in loops for a ribbon bar. This accommodates a ribbon bar of six to eight places. Immediately below that are two more sets of sewn-in loops. This would have been for a 1914 Iron Cross 1^st Class and one other pinback award. It could have been a wound badge, or an Iron Cross 1^st Class equivalent from another state. The tunic’s reverse carries forward the obverse’s red trim. No buttons are on the tunic’s reverse. Inside the tunic in a pocket is a tailor’s label identifying the original owner as Freiherr von Landsberg. In a copy of the 1914 Rangeliste von Landsberg was listed as a rittmeister in Küraßier-Regiment von Dreisen (Westfälisches) Nr 4. In looking through the list of officers EVERY one of them was a nobleman. No fewer than FIVE other barons were in that regiment. One small "problem" exists. On the officer’s shoulder boards the silver buttons holding them down are mismatched. One button is an 18mm button and the other is a 16mm. If this is the worst problem one can find on this tunic, I think it shows the condition and quality that we offer. $4,995.00 .

 

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15-424 MAJOR ÜBERROCK - FELDARTILLERIE-REGIMENT Nr 15 - PRUSSIA. This is a major’s high-quality frock coat from the 1. Ober-Elsässisches Feldartillerie-Regiment Nr 15. The regiment was established in 1871. It was garrisoned at Saarburg-Mörchingen, where it was attached to the XXI. ArmeeKorps. The tunic’s body is made of fine blue wool. It displays red piping, and a double row of six gilt buttons. Its collar is black. No buttons decorate the sleeves. The shoulder boards are of the slip-on variety. They show the braid reserved for the rank of major through oberst. It has no pips, but does display the regimental numerical designation, along with the artillery’s flaming bomb. The shoulder boards have a red underlay. The tunic’s reverse features four gilt buttons at the vent. Inside, the tunic is beautifully finished with a silk liner. The tunic’s overall condition is excellent. It is a fine example of a prewar frock coat. $1,495.00

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Rittmeister - Hauptmann - Oberleutnant - Leutnant

15-417 HAUPTMANN TUNIC - LUFTSCHIFFER-BATTALION - PRUSSIA. This is a hauptmann’s pre-World War I tunic from a Luftschiffer-Battalion (or possibly on staff). A total of five battalions was founded in the Prussian Army between 1884 and 1913. Obviously the Luftschiffer-Battalion (Nr 1), founded in 1884, initially depended on gas balloons, until Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin developed the first motorized airship. The next four battalions were founded in 1911 and 1913. All of these pre-WW I battalions were Prussian, although Luftschiffer Battalion Nr 2 had one Saxon Kompagnie and Luftschiffer-Battalion Nr 4 fielded a single Kompagnie from Württemberg. These five battalions were scattered in the Garde-Korps, I. ArmeeKorps, VIII. ArmeeKorps, and XIV. ArmeeKorps. [We should note that Bavaria, who often followed its own path, combined Luftschiffer and Kraftfahr Kompagnies into a single battalion. The unit was assigned to the I. Bavarian ArmeeKorps. It was also founded in 1911].Our tunic’s body is dunkel-blau (dark-blue). Red trim appears at the collar, sleeves, and down the tunic’s center near the buttons. The buttons are all silver-toned. The standard eight buttons appear down the tunic’s front. Two buttons also show on each sleeve in the front. The collar boasts massive, embroidered, bullion leitzen. Two smaller, embroidered, silver bullion leitzen are also on the sleeves. The sleeves are made of black velvet. The silver bullion shows off handsomely against that background. The shoulder boards each have a hauptmann’s twin, gilt pips, as well as a gilt stylized "L" for Luftschiffer. The shoulder boards are of the slip-on variety, with a red underlay. No battalion number shows on the "L" cypher. This leads me to believe that the officer was not directly assigned to a battalion, but may have been on the staff of either a Brigade, Division, or ArmeeKorps. It is even possible that he served on the general staff. Naturally, as WW I began, more battalions were formed, as was the case with every other type of army unit. The tunic’s chest reveals two horizontal sets of loops, either for two ribbon bars, or a ribbon bar and a decoration with a horizontal rather than a vertical pin. The loops measure 1 1/4" for the top, and 1" for the bottom. The tunic’s reverse sports red trim at the vent flap, along with six more silver-toned buttons. Inside the tunic is a fairly-standard, black, silk officer’s lining. No identification appears for the owner or the tailor shop that produced the tunic. This is a handsome tunic with no apparent signs of mothing, in beautiful condition. It is a very rare and desirable item. $3,495.00

  

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One Year Volunteers - NCO's - Enlisted Men
Cavalry - Infantry - Artillery etc.

15-500 IDENTIFIED UNIFORM GROUPING - ENLISTED MAN - KÖNIGIN AUGUSTA GARDE-GRENADIER-REGIMENT Nr 4 - PRUSSIA. Today we are offering a very interesting uniform grouping for an enlisted man from Königin Augusta Garde-Grenadier-Regiment Nr 4. The regiment was raised in 1860. It was garrisoned in Berlin and was a part of the GardeKorps. What makes the grouping so attractive, aside from its completeness, is that it is identified. We even have the man’s photograph. Let us turn to this fabulous grouping.

*Tunic. It is a fine example of a pre WW I, dark-blue tunic. A thin red trim line runs down the tunic’s center, near where the buttons are attached. Eight gilt buttons adorn the tunic’s center. The red collar sports two sets of embroidered white leitzen. The sleeves are red, with three white leitzen on each sleeve. A gold-toned button is attached to each of the leitzen, in turn. The shoulder straps are a lighter shade of blue. Embroidered on each strap is a crown and Königin Augusta’s cypher. The straps are sewn-in on one side. Each has an unnumbered, gold-toned button on the other side. The tunic’s reverse features red trim and six more gold-toned buttons. Inside the tunic we see it was not a depot-issued tunic. It was privately purchased, and sports the classic, black-silk liner. While it is a fine tunic, some scattered moth nips appear on its lower right front. This is chronicled in the photographs which accompany the description.

*Trousers. Included are the white dress trousers that are indicative of Garde-Grenadier, Garde-Fusilier, and Garde-Fuß regiments. These trousers are made of cotton. They have two side pockets. The front has a button arrangement (a total of four buttons) to secure the trousers. They are in excellent condition and very clean.

 

*Documents and Misc. Information. This grouping once belonged to Ernst Wald. He was born in 1896. Included in these items are his Soldbuch, which has a photo of him in this uniform pasted in the front cover. In the early pages we see numerous unit stamps for Augusta Garde-Grenadier-Regiment Nr 4. Later in the war, we see that he was transferred into the Ersatz Battalion of 2. Garde-Regiment zu Fuß. At some point he must have been wounded, as we see stampings for the military hospital in Berlin. Also included is an Ausweis, which is for time spent in Turkey, before he was wounded and sent home to Berlin. The Ausweis is in both German and Turkish. [At this point Wald had been promoted to Vizefeldwebel]. In addition to these is another military document from 1937, which chronicles his service in WW I. The final addition to this portion of the grouping is a booklet that chronicles Augusta Garde-Grenadier-Regiment Nr 4's history. The booklet shows the regiment’s service in the 1864 Danish-Prussian War, the 1866 Austro-Prussian War, and the 1870/71 Franco-Prussian War. The traditions of the regiment, etc., are also listed. It is a fine group of items.

Overall, this is a captivating grouping of a tunic, trousers and documents. The trousers are especially interesting and seldom-seen. $1,995.00

15-502 XKK HUSSAR ENLISTED MAN ATTILA - MUSICIAN - HUSAREN-REGIMENT Nr 19 - SAXONY. This is a consignment item. It is an Attila from Königl. Sächs 2. Husaren-Regiment Nr 19. The regiment was founded in 1791 and garrisoned in Grimma. It was attached to the XIX. ArmeeKorps. What makes the tunic so interesting is that is for a musician in the regimental band (if they had one). If they did not have a formal band, then he served as one of the regiment’s buglers. The attila’s body is a medium-blue. It sports white tresses and white frogging. It also features silver rosette and barrel buttons. A double row of the rosette buttons appears, with six on each side. Six barrel buttons are also present. The collar displays silver bullion tape. Mounted on each side are the Kingdom of Saxony’s Gefreiter buttons. The same silver tape appears on the sleeves. Plain white shoulder straps are attached to a single smaller silver button. Mounted to each shoulder are the musician’s swallow’s nest devices. They are also constructed of the silver bullion tape we see elsewhere on the tunic. On the tunic’s reverse are white tresses and two silver barrel buttons. Inside, we see it was a privately-purchased tunic. It is not the typical cotton-lined, depot-issued tunic one sees. Instead, it is privately purchased, sporting a fine silk liner. At the collar is a shredded silk tailor’s label. Below that is a fine "H" which was the first initial of the original owner’s last name. The tunic is in very fine condition. It is an extremely difficult-to-find variation. $1,995.00 Reduced to $1,795.00!!

 

15-254 TUNIC FOR ONE-YEAR-VOLUNTEER - JÄGER - BATTALION Nr 10 - PRUSSIA. This is a very fine tunic from an elite unit with a long and proud history. This very rare tunic comes from Hannoverisches Jäger-Battalion Nr 10. The unit was raised in 1803 and garrisoned at Goslar. Prior to the beginning of WW I it was assigned to the X. Armeekorps. This was the only jäger battalion in the Kingdom of Hannover’s Army. It was an elite rifle unit that was greatly prized by Wellington, along with his own 92^nd Rifles, for its members’ marksmanship. These troops were an important part of the skirmishers sent out in advance of the regular infantry. Their marksmanship helped eliminate officers and interfered with the command and control of the French troops they opposed. This unit proudly served throughout the Peninsula campaign and at Waterloo with the Duke of Wellington. Like the other Hanoverian regiments, Hannoverisches Jäger-Battalion Nr 10 was absorbed into the Prussian Army in 1866, after Hannover’s defeat when they sided with Austria against Prussia. Even though Hanoverian infantry, cavalry, artillery, jäger, and pionier units were redesignated as Prussian units, they retained a strong sense of pride in their roots as native sons of Hannover. In the late 1890's this was recognized by Kaiser Wilhelm II. He then allowed these units to wear bandeaux for the battle honors that they had achieved while under the flag of Hannover. This small gesture meant a great deal to the troops. From that day until the end of the empire, they could be distinguished from other Prussian units by the wearing of these bandeaux on their parade headdress. The tunic we are offering today is a wonderful example of a pre WW I tunic for this particular unit. The body of this tunic is green. (This was similar to the elite English 92^nd Rifles Regiment). It not only distinguished them from other infantry troops, but helped them blend in with the landscape that they were skulking through. The tunic has a single row of eight, gilt-toned buttons, along with gilt buttons at the sleeve, shoulder straps, and rear vent. The sleeves and collar are red, with silver bullion trim. Each of the shoulder straps are red, with the battalion number in yellow. Also attached to each of the shoulder boards are buttons with a "1" on them for the 1^st Kompagnie of the Battalion. Perhaps the most striking detail of this tunic is a cuff title on the right cuff for "Gibraltar." Only Hannoverisches Jäger-Battalion Nr 10, Fußilier-Regiment Generalfeldmarschall Prinz Albrecht von Preußen (Hannoversches) Nr 73, and Infantrie-Regiment von Voigts-Rhetz (3. Hannoversches) Nr 79 were permitted to wear this cuff title on their tunics! As a matter of fact, these three regiments were the ONLY three in the entire German Army to wear any sort of cuff title. [Infantrie-regiment Nr 79 was actually not created until 1838, so I do not fully understand why that regiment was permitted to wear the cuff title]. In any event, you can understand what an honor it was to be in these units, and to be allowed to wear the cuff titles that showed the distinction of Hanoverian units in the Peninsula campaign. The cuff title is a dark blue. The word "Gibraltar" appears in yellow. Needless to say, it is very striking, and speaks to the tradition of Hannoverisches Jäger-Battalion Nr 10. The condition of the tunic is astounding. I am not sure that I can detect even the hint of a moth nip on it. This tunic was a private purchase. It has the officer’s style silk liner, with no hints of depot markings. This is a very rare tunic to an elite regiment, in sparkling condition. $2,295.00 

 

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15-474 ENLISTED MAN TUNIC - MINENWERFER DETACHMENT. This is a wonderful, prewar quality, dunkel-blau tunic from a Minenwerfer detachment. Many of you are asking, what in the world is a Minenwerfer? Minenwerfers were wheeled artillery pieces that fell partway between conventional cannons and mortars. They were intended for use in close support of infantry. They were mounted on gun carriages, but typically had shorter barrels than traditional cannons as they were not intended for long range use. They did not require the greater range because they were kept much closer to the infantry than other forms of artillery. Minenwerfers came in three calibers: 7.58CM, 17CM, and 25CM. They also had rifled barrels. They were used in fairly large numbers during WW I. (I do not know if the Allies had a similar weapon, but this does provide quite an intriguing story)! The tunic’s body is dark-blue (dunkel blau). A single row of eight silver buttons runs down its center. The second buttonhole from the top sports a ribbon for the 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class. Red piping extends from the collar down to the tunic’s center. The tunic’s collar is black (for artillery), edged with silver bullion tape. The sleeves display the same arrangement of black material with silver bullion tape. Two silver buttons adorn each sleeve. The shoulder straps are red with yellow a "MW" on them. The tunic’s interior, along with the plain buttons on the shoulder straps, confirms that this is a high-quality, privately-purchased tunic. The tunic’s interior is lined in gray and black silk. The lining is complete and in good condition. No ownership markings appear on the pocket, etc. The exterior is a fine wool gabardine. I see perhaps two extremely small moth nips on the entire exterior. This tunic is in EXCELLENT condition. It would make a superb addition to any collection. $995.00

 

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15-283 ENLISTED MAN TUNIC FOR LANDWEHR DISTRICT Nr 61 - PRUSSIA. This is a simply wonderfully-conditioned, prewar, dark-blue enlisted man’s tunic from Landwehr District Nr 61. The Landwehr formed the reserves for the German army and was similar to the Army Reserve or National Guard in the U.S. The tunic’s exterior is a very high-quality, blue wool, in very fine condition. Its collar, sleeves and center trim are all red. It displays eight gilt buttons down the center, with matching buttons on the sleeves, shoulder straps, and rear vent. The shoulder straps are also red, with white thread depicting "61" for the regimental designation. The interior is lined in silk. Thus this was a privately purchased tunic, not depot-issued. If you are looking for an ultra-high-quality enlisted man’s tunic in superb condition, you need look no further. This tunic was initially described as being from Infanterie-Regiment Nr 61 which is incorrect. Thank you to TS. $750.00 

 

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15-305 ENLISTED MAN TUNIC - 1. BADISCHES LEIB-GRENADIER-REGIMENT Nr 109 - BADEN. This is a prewar, dark-blue enlisted man’s tunic from Leib-Grenadier-Regiment Nr 109 from the Grand Duchy of Baden. This was the most elite infantry regiment in the Baden military. It was quite similar to 1. Garde-Regiment zu Füß from Prussia, Königl Sächs 1. (Leib) Grenadier-Regiment Nr 100 from Saxony, Leibgarde-Infanterie-Regiment (1. Großherzogl. Hessisches) Nr 115, and Infanterie-Leib-Regiment from Bavaria. These regiments were a part of the personal guard to the kings and grand dukes of the various German states. Leib-Grenadier-Regiment Nr 109 was the oldest of all Baden’s infantry regiments. It was raised in 1803 and garrisoned in Karlsruhe, where it was assigned to the XIV. Armeekorps.  The tunic is a dark-blue (dunkel blau). It is a daily-wear tunic. It sports a single row of eight gilt buttons. Six gilt buttons grace the tunic’s rear at the vent. The shoulder straps are white with a red crown, which is emblematic of Leib-Grenadier-Regiment Nr 109. No company numbers show on the shoulder straps’ gilt buttons. The tunic’s interior is fresh and clean. This is a privately-purchased tunic and not depot-issued. A tag was in the neck area at one time, but has been removed. It is a delightful tunic from an elite regiment. $750.00

 

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15-519 FELDWEBEL TUNIC - INFANTERIE-REGIMENT Nr 132 - PRUSSIA. This is a feldwebel’s tunic from 1. Unter-Elsässisches Infantry-Regiment Nr 132. The regiment was raised in1881, and garrisoned at Straßburg i.E. It was assigned to the XV. ArmeeKorps. The tunic is the prewar dark-blue. It features the traditional eight gilt-toned buttons down its center. Red trim also runs down the center. The collar is red and sports gold bullion tape, which indicates a feldwebel. The cuffs are red trimmed in blue. Three gold-toned buttons appear on the cuffs, along with gold bullion tape signaling the man’s rank. Each shoulder strap is red, with the regimental number, "132," in yellow. The two smaller buttons securing the shoulder straps display a "1" for Kompagnie Nr 1. On the left breast are two pairs of sewn-on loops that held ribbon bars. The upper one measures 1" in width, while the lower measures 1 1/4." On the reverse, red trim appears on the vent flap, accompanied by a total of six gold-toned buttons. The tunic’s interior reveals that it was a privately-purchased, rather than a depot-issued, tunic. The officer’s-style, champagne-colored silk liner is complete. This is a handsome tunic which is value priced. $695.00

 

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15-515 ENLISTED MAN TUNIC - JÄGER BATTALION Nr 4 - PRUSSIA. This is an enlisted man’s tunic from Magdeburgisches Jäger-Battalion Nr 4. The unit was raised in1815 and garrisoned at Naumburg a.S. It was attached to the IV. ArmeeKorps. Jäger-Battalions were assembled to act as the marksmen for the Prussian, Hanoverian, Schaumburg-Lippe, Saxon, Mecklenburg-Schwerin, and Bavarian Armies. These units were formed from the best marksmen during the Napoleonic Wars. They often using better firearms than traditional infantry regiments. During those times, most ground troops marched against each other in neat lines. At VERY close distance, they unleashed massed fire on one another. Often, victory was determined by the army with the fastest firing rate. [The British Army was the technique’s master. It was a key reason that they eventually prevailed with fewer troops than the French. Also, the British were superior to the French in troop deployment. The French advanced in close ranks that extended far back. Many of the rearward ranks were unable to fire. This was not a problem for the British, who extended their lines and got production out of all their men, even the rearward ranks. When the British employed firing-by-ranks, it was devastating. It often shattered the ineffectively deployed advancing French).
Before the main bodies clashed, however, each army sent out skirmishers. These small groups fired on one another, on NCO’s, and on officers in the advancing main body. This was the Jäger-Battalions’ function. [I must briefly mention the British Rifle Regiments who did the same work. These men were deadly when working in pairs and using the fabled Baker Rifles]. Like the British Rifle Regiments, the Jäger-Battalions wore green tunics. They helped the men to blend into the scenery a bit better. The tunics distinguished the Jägers from regular infantrymen. Our tunic today dates from about 1900 to 1910. It has a green body with a row of eight gilt-toned buttons down the center. It sports a red collar and red shoulder straps on which the yellow number "4" has been embroidered. Each shoulder strap is stitched into the tunic on one end. It is held in place on the other by a gilt-toned button displaying a "4." It represents Kompagnie Nr 4. The cuffs are also red, with two gilt-toned buttons. The tunic’s reverse features red trim on the vent, along with six gilt-toned buttons. A scattered moth nip or two shows on the tunic’s exterior, along with a small period repair on the front.
Inside, we see it was privately-purchased tunic and not depot-issued. It displays a standard, officer-style, black silk liner. Overall, it is a lovely Jäger-Battalion tunic from a unit formed during the pivotal year of the war against Napoleon. It is in well-above-average condition. It is value-priced, as well. $895.00

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15-547 ENLISTED MAN’s TUNIC - ARTILLERIE-REGIMENT Nr 32 - SAXONY. This is a pre WW I, enlisted man’s tunic from 3. Königl. Sächs. Feldartillerie-Regiment Nr 32. In 1889, it was Saxony’s third artillery regiment ever formed. The regiment was garrisoned Riesa and attached to both the Saxon XII. and Saxon XIX. ArmeeKorps. The tunic’s body is black wool. Its collar, trim, and sleeves are red. Eight gilt buttons run down the tunic’s center. Another two gilt buttons are on each of the sleeves, and two gilt buttons decorate the red collar. The shoulder straps are black with an embossed red regimental number ("32") and the artillery’s flaming bomb/grenade. The tunic’s reverse displays four gilt buttons on the vent flap. Inside the tunic, we see that it is a privately-purchased example with a padded silk lining. The tunic’s exterior is in good condition, generally. A few moth nips exist, but are in no way detrimental to its overall display. $895.00

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15-553 XRL M-1908 FEDLGRAU FELDWEBEL TUNIC WITH A TRIAGE LABEL FOR A DEAD OFFICER IN A MILITARY HOSPITAL - BAVARIA. This is a consignment item. Every item that we offer has a story, be it long or short. Today we are offering an item that boasts one of the most incredible stories we have ever heard. Please have patience as we move through this tale of a tunic and the two men who wore it.

This is a very rare Bavarian Army Feldwebel’s tunic. It is an experimental M-1908 Feldgrau Tunic that was first issued in 1907. The prototype ultimately became the M-1910 Feldgrau Tunic. Some subtle differences exist in the Feldwebel tresses (at the sleeve and collar) and buttons. The confirmation of the tunic’s date lies with the interior’s depot-markings. In fact, some speculation exists that the tunic is one of only a few still surviving today. It has no shoulder straps attached. I do not have an explanation for their absence, but they play only a small part in this tunic’s mysteries. I am skipping my normal description of its exterior. Let it suffice to say that it definitely saw combat action (it displays substantial mothing and field repairs). In fact, it presents bullet holes and blood stains in the interior. The bullet wounds were suffered in the right hip area. The tunic’s interior sports a white-over-gray cotton lining. We see that it was first issued in 1908 to a man who served in Infanterie-Regiment Nr 18. It has a further stamping of "EB," which stands for Ersatz Battalion. It is most likely that the tunic was reissued to at least one other Feldwebel at some later time. Perhaps during WW I’s troop call up, which engendered a pressing need for uniforms, it was pulled from the rack and reissued since it looked very similar to the by-then-normal M-1910 tunic. In addition to the previously-described original and reissued information depot markings that appear on the area several inches below the neck, we see a series of other numbers. They may deal with the waffen number assigned to each soldier for Army-issued items.

*The actual triage label. This is the label that appeared in the article and on the tunic. For preservation’s sake, the label has been removed from the tunic and placed in a plastic case. It retains its string hanger and can be returned to the tunic for display should the new owner so wish.

Please review the extensive photographs that accompany the artifact. I am often touched by the stories that come from the Great War. Seldom have I been as moved as I have been with this particular tale. I can feel the pain that two men suffered and how their pain was joined through the tunic. The tunic has been retained in its original combat condition. It is not pretty, but it tells a compelling story. $6,495.00JS

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15-511 XMK ENLISTED MAN’S TUNIC - PRUSSIAN LUFTSCHIFFER-ABTEILUNG. This is a consignment item. It is a pre WW I enlisted man’s tunic from a Luftschiffer-Abteilung. As a prewar tunic, it is dark-blue (dunkel-blau) rather than feldgrau. The tunic has eight silver-toned buttons that extend down the tunic’s front. Red trims the collar’s top and extends down the tunic’s front. The same trim is seen at the cuffs. The collar has a black background and two very long leitzen that wrap around the collar’s front and side. The cuffs are also black, with twin white leitzen. Set on each of these two leitzen are another two silver-toned buttons. The shoulder straps are red, with a yellow embroidered "L." Each shoulder strap’s underlay is dark-blue. One end of the strap is sewn-in, while the other is attached with a smaller, domed, silver-toned button. Each button sports a "2" for Kompagnie Nr 2. The vent flap on the tunic’s rear is trimmed in red and features another six silver-toned buttons. Inside the tunic, we see it is a privately-purchased item, complete with a silk liner. Only a trace of moth tracking shows on the surface. It is a superb tunic. $1,795.00  Reduced Price $1,575.00!!

 

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15-74 PAPER WEIGHT WITH MINIATURE OF OFFICER DRESS SHOULDER BOARD OF INFANTERIE-REGIMENT Nr 126 - WÜRTTEMBERG. Desk pieces of all kinds were very popular in Imperial Germany. This was especially true for officers who might have miniature swords as decorations or as letter openers, for example. In this case an officer from 8. Württemberg Infanterie-Regiment Nr 126 Große Herzog Friedrich von Baden had a paperweight made with a miniature of a dress (banjo style) shoulder board imbedded in glass. The result is a very striking desk piece that is a real attention getter. Imagine how handsome this would look on your desk (as it will on mine until you buy it)! $250.00

 

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15-480 FELDGRAU SLEEVE PATCH - REGIMENTAL FAHENTRÄGER - SAXONY. This is an ultra-rare sleeve patch for a Saxon Regimental Fahnenträger. It is a feldgrau version. It was used from about 1907 through 1918 as feldgrau uniforms were phased into service. The patch is quite large and shield-shaped. It measures 4 3/4" x 3 1/4." It is beautifully manufactured with multicolored bullion thread. I see gold, black, silver, green, red, and blue. As you look at the photos, please pay careful attention to the design of the two crossed flags and especially the Saxonian Crown. It fairly wants to jump off the patch at you. Also, at the patch’s bottom, König Friedrich August III’s royal cypher appears in brilliant gold bullion thread. The patch is in very fine condition. Only a hint of moth tracking shows on the two side panels. I do not believe this was ever issued. It would make an important addition to any collection. $1,595.00

 

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15-440 SLEEVE PATCH - REGIMENTAL COLOR BEARER’S PREWAR -FOR A DUNKEL BLAU TUNIC. One of the most honored positions within any regiment was the assignment to carry and maintain their regimental standard. All of the European armies, (including Germany), had a fascinating tradition in regimental standards. In Germany, regimental banners or standards were authorized and issued by the König, or Kaiser. It had a true pageantry to it. In addition to the actual standard/banner, regiments brandished flag poles adorned with streamers proclaiming the year of the regiment’s establishment, the regiment’s collective battle honors, and brass identification rings. Depending on the regiment, the pole might even have been topped by a Grand Cross of the Iron Cross. The men fought with great pride under these flags. For a regiment to lose its flag in battle was a horrible event. It rained dishonor on ALL the men attached to the regiment, from its regimental commander down to the lowliest private. The man assigned to maintain and carry the regimental banner was highly-regarded by his officers and NCO’s. He bore the standard, carrying it in a special case when it was not unfurled. He was expected to protect the banner with his life. The sight of the banner waving, even in battle, was a rallying point for the regiment’s men. If the color bearer fell during battle, another man immediately snatched-up the banner to show that the regiment was still in the fight. Naturally, a man so honored as to carry the regimental colors was awarded a special sleeve patch designating him as the regimental color bearer. As you can see, the number of color bearers in the German Army was very limited, as was this very special sleeve patch. The patch was intended to have been worn on the sleeve of the pre WW I dunkel-blau (dark-blue) tunic. It measures 5" x 3 1/2," and is in the shape of a shield. It sports a pair of crossed regimental flags, beautifully done in yellow, white, and black thread. Between them is a Hohenzollern Crown made of yellow, white, and red thread. At the bottom of the patch is Kaiser Wilhelm II’s royal cypher in yellow. It is very elegant and quite rare. [As an aside, regimental banners are greatly prized by collectors. Prices BEGIN at $20,000.00 for these beauties when they come on the market. I have seen examples fetch in excess of $50,000.00. They rarely become available. Many of them were taken to Russia at the end of WW II, and were not released until thirty to forty years after its end]. This is an amazing piece of history. $1,395.00

 

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15-441 SLEEVE PATCH - REGIMENTAL COLOR BEARER FOR A FELDGRAU TUNIC. One of the most honored positions within any regiment was the assignment to carry and maintain their regimental standard. All of the European armies, (including Germany), had a fascinating tradition in regimental standards. In Germany, regimental banners or standards were authorized and issued by the König, or Kaiser. It had a true pageantry to it. In addition to the actual standard/banner, regiments brandished flag poles adorned with streamers proclaiming the year of the regiment’s establishment, the regiment’s collective battle honors, and brass identification rings. Depending on the regiment, the pole might even have been topped by a Grand Cross of the Iron Cross. The men fought with great pride under these flags. For a regiment to lose its flag in battle was a horrible event. It rained dishonor on ALL the men attached to the regiment, from its regimental commander down to the lowliest private. The man assigned to maintain and carry the regimental banner was highly-regarded by his officers and NCO’s. He bore the standard, carrying it in a special case when it was not unfurled. He was expected to protect the banner with his life. The sight of the banner waving, even in battle, was a rallying point for the regiment’s men. If the color bearer fell during battle, another man immediately snatched-up the banner to show that the regiment was still in the fight. Naturally, a man so honored as to carry the regimental colors was awarded a special sleeve patch designating him as the regimental color bearer. As you can see, the number of color bearers in the German Army was very limited, as was this very special sleeve patch. The patch was intended to have been worn on the sleeve of the feldgrau tunic. This example is far larger than a pre WW I sleeve patch. It measures 6 1/2" x 4 1/4" and is in the shape of a shield. It sports a pair of crossed regimental flags, beautifully done in yellow, green, white, and black thread. Between them is a Hohenzollern Crown made of yellow, white, and red thread. At the bottom of the patch is Kaiser Wilhelm II’s royal cypher in red. It is very elegant and quite rare. [As an aside, regimental banners are greatly prized by collectors. Prices BEGIN at $20,000 for these beauties when they come on the market. I have seen examples fetch in excess of $50,000. They rarely become available. Many of them were taken to Russia at the end of WW II, and were not released until thirty to forty years after its end]. This is an amazing piece of history. $1.495.00

 

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15-504 KAISER SHOOTING PRIZE - ARTILLERY REGIMENT - 1912. During each year Kaiser Wilhelm II sponsored a shooting tournament to determine the German Army’s finest shooting regiments. I know awards were given for the finest shooting infantry and artillery regiments. I do not know if the prize was further divided in the Army. [I believe the Kaiserliche Marine gave a similar award]. Today we are offering a sleeve patch, which was given to every member of the top, winning regiment. Our offering today is for 1912's top-shooting artillery regiment. [I do not remember ever offering you such a badge from an artillery regiment, only from infantry regiments]. As it comes from 1912, the move from dark-blue uniforms to feldgrau was well underway. The patch’s background is feldgrau. The patch is oval-shaped and measures 4" x 2 1/2." Attached to the oval-shaped background is a brass-crowned, laurel leaf wreath. In the center are two cannon tubes. Under them is the date 1912. The brass set is attached on the reverse by what I term is a tin backing plate. Stamped on it we see "C. E. Juncker" and their address in Berlin. While C. E. Juncker produced some of the finest flight badges in Germany, it was far from their specialty. They were actually a military-effects firm. As a matter of fact, we often see enlisted men’s privately-purchased helmets for the Regiment der Garde du Corps from the firm. This is a top-quality item that some man proudly wore on his tunic’s sleeve nearly 100-years-ago. $550.00ST

 

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15-410 1911 KAISER WILHELM II - ANNUAL SHOOTING PRIZE BADGE. The award of the annual Kaiser Shooting Badges was a time of keen competition. These were awarded to the top shooting units from Imperial German Army Regiments, as well as Army Artillery Regiments. A similar award was made to the Navy. This badge was an award to the Army’s top shooting unit in 1911. In this competition every man in the selected regiment was awarded a badge to wear on his tunic sleeve. The badge is oval-shaped and measures 4" x 3." Its background is black felt. The insignia itself is brass. It was an important award within the Imperial German Army. It served as a source of great pride to the winning unit every year. $295.00 

 

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15-465 KAISER WILHELM II SHOOTING PRIZE - INFANTERIE-REGIMENT 1912. Annually, Kaiser Wilhelm II awarded a prize to the infantry regiment with the best marksmanship. Each regiment member proudly displays it on his tunic sleeve. Today we are offering the prize from 1912. It is a brass badge measuring 4" x 2 3/4." It features a wreath topped by a Hohenzollern Crown. Below that are crossed rifles, with "1912" displayed at the wreath’s bottom. It is mounted on an oval-shaped piece of dark blue wool, which would then be sewn onto a tunic sleeve. Some light, scattered mothing shows up on the patch. The reverse reveals a backing plate has been added to the badge for extra strength and durability. Badges such as this were considered a great honor. German soldiers also were rewarded for their marksmanship with shooting lanyards. The latter were attached to their shoulder strap buttons and displayed on their right breasts. $350.00

 

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15-466 KAISER WILHELM II SHOOTING PRIZE - INFANTERIE-REGIMENT 1904. Annually, Kaiser Wilhelm II awarded a prize to the infantry regiment with the best marksmanship. Each regiment member proudly displays it on his tunic sleeve. Today we are offering the prize from 1904. It is a brass badge measuring 4 1/2" x 3." It features a wreath topped by a Hohenzollern Crown. Below that are crossed rifles, with "1904" displayed at the wreath’s bottom. It is mounted on an oval-shaped piece of black wool, which would then be sewn onto a tunic sleeve. [I am a bit puzzled as to why the patch is black. Most infanterie troops typically wore dark-blue uniforms, so a black patch would look odd. I do have a theory. Both the 2. Leib Husaren-Regiment Nr 2 and Braunschweig’s Husaren-Regiment Nr 17 wore black tunics. Perhaps one of these regiments received the award in 1904. This is just a guess on my part, but I do know the Army and Navy’s various arms were eligible to participate in the competition]. The reverse reveals a backing plate has been added to the badge for extra strength and durability. Badges such as this were considered a great honor. German soldiers also were rewarded for their marksmanship with shooting lanyards. The latter were attached to their shoulder strap buttons and displayed on their right breasts. $375.00

 

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15-550 SHOOTING BADGE - SAXONY. This is a shooting badge for proficiency in marksmanship for a Saxon Army soldier. These were generally worn on a tunic’s right side. They were attached to the right shoulder strap’s button, then draped down the tunic and attached at a buttonhole. They were awarded in varying degrees. This is an example of the basic first award. It is very handsome. It would definitely upgrade an enlisted man or NCO’s Saxon regiment tunic. $195.00

 

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15-261 SIGNALMAN PATCH FOR ENLISTED MAN - MACHINE GUN ABTEILUNG. This is a very rare signalman’s patch for a tunic (this would generally be worn on the right arm just below the shoulder) for a man who filled that roll in a Machine Gun Abteilung. It is for the feldgrau tunic and features crossed signal flags. Three tiny holes appear (no bigger than pinpoint sized) where this patch might have been mounted by a collector long ago. You have to look closely to see them. They are not detractive. The patch would date from the period of 1910 to 1914. This is very rare and difficult-to-find! $295.00  

 

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15-262 SIGNALMAN PATCH FOR ENLISTED MAN - INFANTERIE-REGIMENT. This is a signalman’s patch for a man assigned to an infanterie-Regiment prior to WW I. The patch is dark blue with red and white crossed flags mounted on yellow flag poles. One very small moth track appears on the patch. It is still in very good condition. $85.00  

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15-263 SÄNITAT (MEDICAL) PATCH FOR ENLISTED MAN SERVING - GARDE-DRAGONER-REGIMENT Nr 1 - PRUSSIA. This is a patch for a man assigned to Sänitat (Red Cross) duties. The patch is light blue with a yellow caduceus on it. This patch is correct for a man serving in Garde-Dragoner-Regiment Nr 1. The patch has one small nip on the edge at about the 11:00 position. $125.00  

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15-414 UNIFORM SNAP BUTTONS ON THE ORIGINAL SALES CARD. During the Imperial German period buttons, hooks and eyes, and snap buttons were an important part of the securing of uniforms. Zippers were not yet in use for trousers and so items like this were commonly used for securing garments. There are six of these snap buttons on the original sales card. These would date from about 1900-1910 and even if you don’t actually need them to secure a uniform they make for a fine addition to a display showing how these items were sold and used. $35.00  

 

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15-318 SIX SMALL SNAP BUTTONS FOR MILITARY USE ON ORIGINAL SALES CARD. Snap buttons were used on military garments, headdress items, etc. This is a set of six of them on their original sales card. $50.00

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Belts - Buckles - Etc.

 

15-445 INFANTRY OFFICER DRESS BELT/SASH - SWORD BELT - SPUR ENSEMBLE. This is a wonderful infantry officer’s grouping. It consists of his sash/belt, sword belt, and a pair of his spurs. The sash sports two large acorns that look like oversized portopees. [Our example does NOT have the "belt-like" attachments one sometimes sees. They are not missing. The sash just never had them. It simply was worn wrapped around the officer’s waist]. Inside this sash is a manufacturer’s label reading "Argentan Specialiät." Also penciled in is what appears to be "v. Pilgram," or "v. Pilgrim." The sash measures 70" in overall length. The next piece is the actual belt from which he hung his sword. Various parts of the sword-belt are made of gold bullion and elegant red leather. The belt is complete and in very fine condition, with all its fittings present. The ensemble’s final item is a pair of officer’s spurs. All of the leather fittings and attachments are available for mounting the spurs to a pair of boots. This scintillating assortment can help complete your uniform display, or create an engrossing display on their own! $1,095.00

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15-446 HUSSAR OFFICER PARADE BELT - PRUSSIA. Here is a marvelous Prussian Hussar officer’s parade belt. This belt style is correct ONLY for Hussar officers. It is a very rare accessory, particularly if it is in good condition. Our example is in NEAR MINT condition, AND it is 100% complete, with all its fittings. Look at the attached photographs to see how different this is from the more commonly-seen brocade belts, or even the parade dress sash/belt. This is a must for completing a Hussar officer’s attila. $1,095.00

 

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15-288 DRESS PARADE BELT AND CARTRIDGE BOX - CAVALRY REGIMENT - ORIGINAL STORAGE BOX - PRUSSIA. This is a fascinating pairing of a cartridge box and parade belt for a Prussian cavalry regiment officer. The cartridge box is leather, and displays a brass cypher (Wilhelm Rex) with a crown above it. The belt is gold in color, with gilt trim. The belt’s underlay is a dark-blue velvet. The belt’s exterior is mint, while the underlay shows some mothing. The pair is snugly stored in their original, circular carton, which has protected and preserved them in fine condition. The original, tissue, wrapping-paper still rests at the carton’s bottom. It is a most unusual set. $795.00 

 

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15-275 OFFICER BROCADE DRESS BELT - PRUSSIA. This is an attractive, brocade, dress belt for a Prussian Army Officer. The bullion exterior remains in very fine condition. The belt’s reverse is lined in blue velvet. The belt buckle is gilt, with a fine bright finish. The tip of the belt with the hardware to secure it is missing. This this belt cannot be secured to a tunic and is good for display only. $225.00

 

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10-393 OFFICER BROCADE BELT AND BUCKLE - SAXONY. When I first found this brocade belt and buckle in Germany I was struck by the amazing small size of the belt. It measures some 21"-22" and initially my first thought was that it was a Kinder or children’s piece. But aside from its small size it was of the correct width of an Army Officer and it also had a correct and full size Saxon Army Officer buckle. Had this been a true Kinder piece both the belt and buckle would have been smaller to accommodate the over all proportions. I spent some more time with it and brain stormed with the owner and he advanced the theory that the only person who could have been that young (to have worn such a small belt) might have been a member of the Saxon Royal household. Even taking into consideration the fact that people were smaller 80 years ago than they are today, this seems like a plausible explanation. Overall the belt and buckle is in very fine condition and finding a Saxon Officer brocade belt and buckle is no small task regardless of the size. $450.00

 

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15-420 OFFICER DRESS BROCADE BELT AND BUCKLE - PRUSSIA. This is a very fine example of a brocade dress belt and buckle for a Prussian infantry officer. It is a fine pre WW I example. It does not have the normal backing, but it would work well on a tunic. It displays beautifully with its gilt toned buckle. $295.00

 

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15-374 OFFICER LEATHER BELT AND BUCKLE - BAVARIA. This is a leather belt and buckle for a Bavarian officer. The brown leather belt measures 29 3/4." The buckle is silver-toned, rather than gilt. I know that gilt is for infantry, but am unfamiliar with what the silver-toned buckle represents. The belt appears to be a modern day leather belt, that has been fitted to a period correct buckle but is still great for display. This price is exceptionally fair for the belt buckle alone. While I am not 100% of the age of the belt the pair is a solid value.  $395.00  

 

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15-430 GENERAL OFFICER BELT BUCKLE - MECKLENBURG-STRELITZ. This may well be the rarest belt buckle that one can find from the Imperial German Period. It is for a general officer from the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Streilitz. Her larger sister Grand Duchy Mecklenburg-Schwerin was the German Army’s third-largest regiment contributor among the Grand Duchies. Baden and Hessen-Darmstadt were both slightly larger. The other three Grand Duchies contributed one or two regiments at most, while Mecklenburg-Strelitz contributed less than a full regiment of men. She had one Battalion of infantry, one battery of artillery, and perhaps a few scattered men in the other regiments from Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Although Mecklenburg-Schwerin put up approximately six regiments, she never produced many generals. That is even truer for the far smaller Mecklenburg-Strelitz. The Grand Dukes of this state were Adolf Friedrich V and Adolf Friedrich VI who ruled from 1904-1918. While I have not been able find further research this, it is most likely that the two Grand Dukes and perhaps one other officer were the only generals fielded by Mecklenburg-Strelitz. While I have seen and offered a general Pickelhaube from Mecklenburg-Schwerin, I have never even seen one from Mecklenburg-Strelitz! This gives you a feeling for a general’s belt buckle’s rarity. Aside from its scarcity, the beauty of the belt buckle is breathtaking. The buckle’s basic shape is similar to any German officer’s buckle. It is circular (measuring 2" in diameter), with a wreath of laurel leaves. The buckle’s center is identical to the wappen center from a Mecklenburg-Schwerin general’s pickelhaube. It features a high-relief, silver sunburst. In its center is a multicolored enamel device that includes the Mecklenburg-Strelitz's Crown. There is also a motto in Latin for this state. I originally thought this was a belt buckle from Mecklenburg-Schwerin as they are identical with the exception of the differing Latin motto. Aside from being on the general pickelhauben this motto appears on certain decorations from the two Grand Duchies. The belt buckle is complete with both pieces. It can easily be mounted on a leather belt, or displayed with other items from Mecklenburg-Strelitz. If you are a belt buckle collector, you certainly will make this your collection’s centerpiece. $3,495.00

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15-367 INFANTERIE OFFICER BELT BUCKLE - BADEN. This is a very fine example of a pre WW I brass belt buckle from the Grand Duchy of Baden. It has a fine gilt finish, and comes complete with the keeper. $275.00  

 

 

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15-459 SUBDUED/FELDGRAU OFFICER BELT BUCKLE - BADEN OR OLDENBURG. This is a very handsome officer’s feldgrau or subdued belt buckle from the Grand Duchy of Baden or the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg. Wilhelm II’s cypher is a brighter gilt, but the remainder of the belt buckle is subdued. This became more common at the front as WW I developed. (The shiny gold previously used for officers’ belt buckles was too tempting a target for snipers)! It comes complete with both pieces. It is ready to mount on a leather belt, or it can be displayed on its own. $595.00

 

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15-451 PIONIER/DRAGOON OFFICER BELT BUCKLE - PRUSSIA. This is an officer’s belt buckle suitable for either a Prussian Dragoner-Regiment or a Pionier-Battalion. The buckle has a silver surface and interior. The center’s primary theme(within an oak leaf wreath) is Kaiser Wilhelm II’s crowned cypher. No keeper accompanies the buckle. The belt buckle’s condition easily rates as excellent. $395.00

 

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15-452 OFFICER BELT BUCKLE - TURKEY. This is an officer’s belt buckle from the Turkish Army. It is also very possible that a German officer might have worn it while serving with his Turkish Allies. Many photos appear with German officers wearing various bits of Turkish uniform. The belt buckle is gilt toned. It is of a most-interesting two-piece construction. It is in very fine condition. $275.00

 

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15-537 XES BAVARIAN OFFICER - SUBDUED BELT BUCKLE. This is a consignment item. It is a Bavarian officer’s belt buckle. It is a wartime purchase that presents a subdued exterior to discourage sunlight from reflecting off it. Both buckle pieces are included. $350.00

 

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15-548 OFFICER’S DRESS SASH - STORAGE CARTON - WÜRTTEMBERG. This is an officer’s dress sash from Württemberg in superb condition. Such a sash was worn about the waist. It has a bullion belt with all the attachments needed for proper sizing. Imbedded in the silver bullion are red and black trim lines, which are the Kingdom of Württemberg’s key colors. Hanging down from the belt are two large "acorns," similar to what one finds on a sword’s portopee, only larger. Dangling from the acorn’s bottom are plentiful silver, red, and black bullion tassels. Each tassel thread measures approximately 9 1/2" in length. A sash like this really sets off an officer’s uniform. The sash is housed in a correct period storage carton. The carton has rounded ends and measures 15" x 3 1/2" x 3." It is made of sturdy, heavy-duty cardboard that sports a leatherette exterior. While the carton has received some scuffs over the last one-hundred-years, it is in amazingly good condition. The sash is also in excellent condition, with some normal, expected toning (patina) to the belt’s bullion. $375.00

 

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15-549 OFFICER’S DRESS SASH - PRUSSIA. This is an officer’s dress sash from Prussia in superb condition. Such a sash was worn about the waist. It has a bullion belt with all the attachments needed for proper sizing. Hanging down from the belt are two large "acorns," similar to what one finds on a sword’s portopee, only larger. Dangling from the acorn’s bottom are plentiful silver and black bullion tassels. Each tassel thread measures approximately 9 3/4" in length. A sash like this really sets off an officer’s uniform. The sash is in excellent condition, with some normal, expected toning (patina) to the belt’s bullion. $250.00

 

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15-349 OFFICER DRESS PARADE SASH IN THE ORIGINAL STORAGE BOX - MECKLENBURG-SCHWERIN. This is an officer’s parade dress sash from the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. The officer who owned this sash was an Adjutant. The sash portion is a gold and blue bullion brocade in the colors of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. All of the fittings for the belt are intact. Two large portopee-like objects hang down from the belt. The head of the portopee-like device is covered in gold bullion, while the dangling tendrils that extend down from the device’s head are gold and blue. The blue gets gradually darker the further down it goes.
The finishing touch to this belt is that it comes in its own storage box, which measures 7 1/4" x 13 1/2" x 3 1/4." The box’s ends are rounded. A paper tag is also on the side that mentions the sash is for an Adjutant. The item is in very fine condition. $495.00  

 

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15-356 OFFICER DRESS PARADE BELT - ORIGINAL STORAGE BOX - BADEN/OLDENBURG/SCHÜTZTRUPPEN. This is a parade belt that was appropriate for an officer from Baden, Oldenburg, or the Schütztruppen. The Schütztruppen were army troops serving in the German colonies, mostly in Africa. This is the high-parade brocade belt. One line of gold and one line of silver brocade appear, along with a very thin red stripe. All of the belt’s attachments are present. Two large portopee-like devices hang down from the brocade belt. Many metallic danglers in matching shades of silver are attached to the bottom of the portopee-like devices. Finally, it is accompanied by its original storage box. It measures 17 1/2" x 3 3/4" x 3 1/4." As you remove the belt from the box, you will find its original tissue paper in the bottom! This is a great accessory for a Baden, Oldenburg, or Colonial uniform. $550.00  

 

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15-345 FLUGELADJUTANT DRESS PARADE BELT/SASH - BADEN. This is a very rare Flugeladjutant parade belt or sash from the Grand Duchy of Baden. The position of Flugeladjutant was not used in every German state. Essentially, he was a high-ranking officer, at least an oberst or a general. He served as an aide to the King, Grand Duke, Duke, Prince, etc. He often was a close confidant of his ruler. His headdress was different from that of other officers, as was his uniform. This was an extremely important position, and it was a great honor to serve in this capacity. (I believe only one man could do so at any one time). Naturally, the state’s ruler had other military officers on his staff in varying functions, but the Flugeladjutant was by far their chief, and an important member of his ruler’s retinue. As for the object we are offering today, I describe it as a belt or sash since I believe I remember the seller saying that it was worn across the body (over the shoulder). I could be wrong about this! If my memory is incorrect, then it was worn like a more conventional parade belt. The belt portion is silver bullion, with contrasting double stripes of red and yellow (Baden’s state colors) bullion. Two large, decorative, silver, bullion balls hang down from the belt, with silver, red, and yellow bullion tendrils dangling down from them. (The bullion balls resemble large sword portopees. That is not what they are, it is what they look like). The item’s overall condition is excellent. Very few of these were ever made, and even fewer survived. $650.00

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15-219 OFFICER DRESS SASH ALONG WITH THE ORIGINAL STORAGE CASE - PRUSSIA. This is a very difficult-to-find officers sash from Prussia. The sash and all its attachments are in superb condition. It is housed in its original storage carton, which has clearly kept it in a high state of preservation. This one is great for display alone, or on a Prussian officer’s tunic. $295.00. . .

 

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15-464 XTR OFFICER DRESS BELT/SASH - BAVARIA. This is a consignment item. This is a dress parade belt or sash for a Bavarian officer. The belt is silver bullion with two bands of blue. Hanging from the belt are two oversized portopee like devices. They have a combination of silver and blue tassels which again confirm that this is Bavarian. The belt does have a fault. A portion of the belt attachment device is missing. It will not "hook up" and hold as a complete belt will. You can still use this on a uniform by pinning the belt together or it would be fine for display. I recently sold a complete example like this for $250.00. Today we offer this example for $125.00

 

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15-334 PIONIER OFFICER BELT BUCKLE - PRUSSIA. This is a complete belt buckle for an officer who served in the Pioniers. Pioniers served as the German Army’s engineers. The belt buckle features a silver surface and a gilt cypher for Kaiser Wilhelm II. All of the hardware is present and ready for use. $295.00  

 

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13-608 BROCADE BELT AND BUCKLE - NAVY OFFICER. This is a very fine example of a naval officer’s brocade dress belt and buckle. The brocade consists of black and red on a silver field. Our example displays some soiling on its exterior. Its silk liner shows some shredding and running, but is complete. The belt measures 34 1/2" in diameter. All of the proper fittings and the gilt officer’s buckle are attached. It is good for display on a tunic, or as a part of a more general collection. $450.00

 

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13-631 NAVY OFFICER BROCADE BELT AND BUCKLE. This is a Navy officer’s brocade belt and buckle. The brocade displays silver, gray, and red. The belt’s interior shows some flaking of the silk liner. The belt measures 28." It is for a more slender officer. The buckle has a beautiful gilt finish. The highlighted Kaiser’s Crown and Kaiser Wilhelm II’s Cypher are especially appealing. $450.00

 

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15-484 OFFICER BROCADE DRESS BELT AND BUCKLE - PRUSSIA. This is a brocade officer’s belt and buckle from a Prussian infantry regiment. The silver brocade is highly tarnished and shows some toning. The buckle’s gilt finish is well above normal. It shows toning or staining on the reverse. Its light-blue felt backing is complete, but does display several moth nips. All of the fittings are present. It can be displayed on its own or attached to an officer’s tunic. The belt’s maximum measurement is 46." $325.00
 

 

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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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15-279 XJB FELDGRAU (SUBDUED) OFFICER BELT BUCKLE - BAVARIA. This item is a consignment piece. It is a wartime feldgrau (subdued) officer’s belt buckle from Bavaria (please do not pay attention to the coloring of this belt buckle in the photos. It is indeed subdued and the shiny finish is due to lighting). Prior to WW I these were made from brass and had a high-gilt finish. With the outbreak of the war, items like this and helmet wappens that had brass or reflective finishes were produced in this manner to reduce their shine on the front lines. A shiny brass buckle made an excellent target for a sniper! This buckle is in very fine condition. It has the keeper, so it can be mounted on a leather belt or displayed as is. $395.00  

 

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15-387 XES OFFICER BELT BUCKLE - PRUSSIA.  This is a consignment item. It is for an  officer in the Prussian army. The cypher does not match up with any of our research books on belt buckles. We have shared photos with other knowledgeable collectors and the consensus is that it is either a custom purchase example that could have been used while he was in the military or that it was used by an officer in a veteran's group after he had retired from the army.  It has a burnished gold finish. Both the buckle and keeper are present. It is very handsome and of the highest quality. $250.00  

 

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15-351 XES OFFICER FIELD BELT AND BUCKLE. This is a consignment item. It is an officer’s style leather belt and buckle. The belt measures 43." It has a sturdy brass buckle, with double hooks to secure the belt when it is buckled up. The black leather belt shows extreme age. It has two brass attachments on the side where a bayonet or other object might be hung. $100.00  

 

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15-494 BELT BUCKLE - ENLISTED MAN - PRUSSIA. This is a belt buckle for a Prussian enlisted man. Its exterior is made of steel. The crown in the center is undented. $65.00

 

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15-342 XES ENLISTED MAN BELT AND BUCKLE - PRUSSIA. This is a consignment item. It is a leather belt and buckle for an enlisted man in the Prussian Army. It has a fine brown belt, and a pre WW I brass buckle. The crown on the buckle is dented. The length of this belt is 37." $195.00  

 

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15-429 PRE WW I ENLISTED MAN BELT BUCKLE - BAVARIA. This is a pre WW I enlisted man brass belt buckle from the Bavarian Army. It is in above-average condition. It is great for display. $95.00

 

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Shooting Prizes - Misc.

10-533 HORSE BLANKET EMBLEMS FOR AN OFFICER FROM BRAUNSCHWEIG. I have a fondness for items from Braunschweig. I believe in this case that I have turned up something rather unique related to that Duchy. This is a pair of emblems that would have been affixed to an officer’s horse blanket. The blanket would have been placed immediately beneath the officer’s saddle. The officer served in either Hussar Regiment Nr 17 or Infanterie-Regiment Nr 92. Both of these regiments were among the most elite in the German army. Braunschweig had very close relations with Prussia. The Duke of Braunschweig, Ernst August, was married to one of the only daughter of Kaiser Wilhelm II. This pair of emblems is of high quality and would have been sewn to the blanket. The pair consists of a crown and a breast-star like device with a "W" inside of it. From the looks of this pair, which is in fine shape and shows only toning and tarnish from age, I would say it is from the turn of the 20^th century. $1,195.00

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