Der Rittmeister Militaria, LLC. Imperial German Merchandise Page 21: Zeppelin, Graf Zeppelin, Hindenburg, & Balloon-Related Materials: Badges, Books, Memorabilia, Headdress, etc.     Updated on 2 September 2010. Contact us @:rittmeister@tampabay.rr.com

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21-149 ORIGINAL PAINTING - EARLY ZEPPELIN FLYING OVER FREDERICK THE GREAT’S PRUSSIAN ROYAL PALACE SANS SOUCCI. This is a most unusual painting on wood, circa 1910. The painting shows the palace built by order of Frederick the Great in Potsdam, Sans Soucci. It is one of the most fascinating of the Prussian royal palaces. When it was built, it was intended to be a summer palace for Frederick the Great when he wanted to get away from all of the hubbub of Berlin. It remains a beautiful site today. I enjoy touring it when we are in the Potsdam area. What is so unusual about this piece is that the artist did his work on wood, instead of canvas or paper. I am no expert, but this is a beautiful light wood. The artist used a knife to cut indentations around and within all the painted areas. This gives the illusion that the picture is created from different colored pieces of inlaid wood.  Some patterns even have small pieces of wood cut out to further the illusion. Close inspection, however, reveals that the images are PAINTED, not inlaid. The painting's actual surface  measures 17" x 10 1/4."  The full, framed picture measures 20 1/4" X 13 3/4." A black-framed rectangular area, measuring 15 1/4" x 8 1/2," is painted inside the overall surface. This imitates a matte within a framed picture. Inside this area at the bottom is a classic view of Sans Soucci. An early pre WW I zeppelin is flying in the sky above. The presentation has a black wooden frame, trimmed in gold. What appears to be the artist’s signature is on the painting’s reverse. It looks like "FJ."  This is a superb piece of work, very different from what we often see. It is totally original and unique! [Special shipping will be required on this item. The price will be based on where it needs to be shipped]. $1,695.00  

 

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21-101 XRB FIREMAN’S HELMET - ZEPPELIN FACTORY. This is a consignment item. The Zeppelin factory was located in Friedrichshafen on Lake Konstanz near the Swiss border in Southwestern Germany. It was here that Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin built his factory, and where both early and wartime zeppelins were built. After the Graf’s death in 1917 and WW I’s end in 1918, it looked very unlikely that the factory would continue. Due to Hugo Eckener’s efforts, however, the factory survived. Soon, the Hindenburg and Graf Zeppelin were both built and placed in service. The factory in Friedrichshafen was quite large. It had sheds right on the lake for the early zeppelins. As the factory grew even larger and more modern, the threat of fires from hydrogen increased. [This was brought home dramatically in1937, when the Hindenburg burst into flames at Lakehurst, NJ]. A fire brigade was established for the safety and protection of the factory. This is a very rare helmet for a fireman who served at the Friedrichshafen factory. It is the classic German Fireman’s helmet, in painted black metal with a crest at the top. The exterior is flawless and in near mint condition. Inside, it displays a full and complete leather liner. The chinstrap for securing the helmet to the wearer’s head is present. On the back visor, stenciled in white, are the words "Lusftschiffbau Zeppelin A.G. Friedrichshafen." The helmet is marked as a size "56." This is a very rare item for the zeppelin collector. It dates from 1930 to 1935. It is a consignment piece. $2,995.00

 

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21-114 XRB LARGE DURALUMINUM ZEPPELIN BOWL. This is a consignment piece. It is a large bowl that might have been used for holding fruit or other such items. It is made from Duraluminum, a very expensive and seldom-used metal, except for the construction of zeppelins. Often when a zeppelin crashed in the early days, the framework was recycled and used to sell items such as this to the very patriotic German people. This bowl measures 8 ½" x 11." It sports a likeness of Graf von Zeppelin and an early zeppelin in the sky. I have seen cups and bowls of this nature before, but this is the largest one I have ever seen. $1,195.00  

 

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21-247 DECORATIVE PLATE - FERDINAND GRAF von ZEPPELIN. Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin (1838-1917) was Germany’s father of airships. His efforts began in the 19th Century. By the time the new century began, he was a busy man building one craft after another. These gentle giants of the sky captured the Germans’ imagination. They clamored for the opportunity to ride on one. At least once one of the ships crashed and was destroyed. The enterprising von Zeppelin appealed to Germany’s people for support in building a new airship. In some cases he sold pieces of the destroyed ship to help build the new one. By the time WW I began, Army and Navy commanders recognized the aircrafts’ use in bombing London, Antwerp, and London. The Graf did not survive the war and died in 1917. His company moved forward, building first the "Graf Zeppelin," and then the "Hindenburg." These airships revolutionized travel, allowing people to fly around the world from Europe to America, South America, and Asia. Tragically, the "Hindenburg" exploded over Lakehurst, NJ in May 1937. This effectively ended airship travel. By this time seaplanes were taking over flying people faster than by zeppelin.  We are offering a small plate that measures 7 1/2" in diameter. The edges are scalloped. In the center is a likeness of the Graf inside a wreath of laurel and oak leaves. A 1914 Iron Cross appears over his head. On the plate’s edges are oak leaf sprigs. The exterior’s condition is very fine. No manufacturer is mentioned on the reverse. $95.00

 

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21-193 MEISSEN TABLE MEDAL - GRAF ZEPPELIN "AROUND THE WORLD VOYAGE" - 1929. Meissen was one of the premier makers of tableware and porcelain items in Imperial Germany. The firm is hundreds of years old, and has survived to this day. Today we are offering a large-format table medal that salutes the Graf Zeppelin’s (LZ-127) "Around the World Tour." The tour began in Friedrichshafen, Germany, where the Graf Zeppelin was built, and continued on to Tokyo, Los Angeles, and Lakehurst, NJ (where her sister ship, the Hindenburg, exploded in May 1937) before returning to Germany. It measures 2" in diameter and is chocolate brown. It shows hallmarking for Meissen on both sides. This is something different for you zeppelin collectors. $350.00

 

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21-198 METAL CIGARILLO BOX - ZEPPELIN. It was quite common in Germany, during and after WW I, to sell cigarettes in metal boxes. Today we are offering a metal box measuring 4 1/2" x 3 1/2." It held ten cigarillos when new. It is multicolored, and shows a zeppelin emerging from a cloud bank. $325.00

 

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11-495 XJB ARMY COMMEMORATIVE AIRSHIP BADGE IN THE ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE. This is a consignment item. Today we are offering you something VERY special. It is an Army Commemorative Airship Badge, (more commonly known as the Army Zeppelin Badge). Two versions of Zeppelin Badges existed, one for the Army and the other for the Navy. The badges were identical except for one important detail. The naval version sported the Hohenzollern Crown at its top, while the Army’s version did not. Both badges were silver-toned. This is unusual for the Navy badge, as all other Navy qualification badges were gilt-toned. [Please note: it is a "Commemorative" badge. The badge was first authorized in 1920. In spite of what some "experts" may claim, it was NEVER worn during WW I by either the Navy or the Army. Some unofficial sleeve patches were worn during the war, but a badge was never authorized]. All other flight qualification badges (Prussian, Bavarian, and Navy) were designed as vertical badges. The Army and Navy airship versions required a horizontal design due to the zeppelin’s shape.
Our offering today displays a beautifully-toned exterior. The badge measures 1 1/2" x 2 1/2." A wreath of oak and laurel leaves is tied at the top by a ribbon. While most of the zeppelin’s body lies within the wreath, small portions extend beyond the airship’s bow and stern. The reverse features a fine swollen pin. A "CEJ" hallmark is incised underneath the pin. This is for the noted firm and flight badge producer C. E. Juncker. Juncker produced badges before WW I, and continued to produce them up through WW II. This hallmark style is typical of the 1933-through-1936 period, following the Third Reich’s ascension to power. It has no silver content hallmark. If you look at the pin, you will see that part of the silver wash has disappeared. A brass finish appears underneath. The badge’s patina shows some use and honest age. Now the presentation’s "VERY special" part arrives, its case. Flight qualification badge presentation cases are very rare. That said, neither the seller (a very advanced aviation collector who has pieces in his collection that museums do not) nor I have EVER seen another Zeppelin Badge case. The case measures 3" x 3 3/4" x 1," and is covered in black leatherette. Substantial scuffing shows on both its top and bottom. It is complete and structurally solid, however. Inside the case the upper liner is blue silk. (The case shows NO indication it was produced for Juncker. It is possible it came from a Juncker Badge distributor and not directly from them). The case’s lower half is lined with black velvet. A slot is cut into the base wherein the badge’s pin fits comfortably. The badge’s overall fit into the case is as snug as a bug in a rug. The case was clearly made for this badge. That, my dear readers, is why the badge and case are so special. In recent months, I have seen cased Bavarian Pilot Badges in Europe that are selling for nearly $3,000. Our badge is a marvelous value considering its rarity.
$3,495.00

 

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21-209 ZEPPELIN BADGE. This is an unusual zeppelin badge. I have not encountered one like it before. It is circular/oval-shaped, and measures 1 3/4" x 1 3/4." The badge features a wreath of leaves, with a zeppelin extending across the badge’s width. "Zeppelin" is seen on the airship. Running vertically is an anchor. The reverse features four pins, which are intact. This allowed the badge to be affixed to a cap or a garment. The badge is stamped in a manner similar to that of a wound badge. I am not sure what the badge’s purpose was, although I think it is something other than a patriotic piece. If anybody has an idea what it is or has seen one before, I would be happy to share that information with our readers! $250.00

 

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21-230 ZEPPELIN FLOWN CARD - USA. Flying postcards, letters, and plain cards via zeppelin was always popular with the German people and their correspondents at the many worldwide zeppelin destinations. These items have a lot of detail to them, and remain quite popular to this date. Our offering today is a plain card that measures 4 1/4" x 6." On the obverse we see that the card was from a Norbert Frischer in Vienna. It was mailed to a Josef Goldberger in New York. In the upper left corner is a stamp that says "Erstflug Mit Luftschiff ‘Hindenburg L. Z. 129' nach Nord-Amerika." To the right we see a blue rubber stamp that reads "Mit Luftpost Par Avion." Below it and again to the left is a red rubber stamp that shows an airplane and a zeppelin flying together. Around the edge of the stamp is "Deutsche Luftpost Europa-Nordamerika." To its right is a canceled stamp in the amount of 50 Pfennig. The stamp shows a zeppelin in flight. The stamp’s top reads "Mit LZ 129 nach Nordamerika." The stamp is canceled from the Bahnpostamt in Frankfurt. To this stamp’s right is another stamp, which is blue. It depicts a bird in flight. It is a stamp for Luftpost. This stamp has the same cancellation as the other stamp. On the reverse is a cancellation from New York, NY on 9 May 1936. This is particularly interesting, as the Hindenburg exploded into flames barely one year later at Lyndhurst, NJ. $125.00

 

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21-249 MILITÄRPAß - BAVARIAN LUFTSCHIFFER ERSATZ ABTEILUNG. This is a militärpaß for a Bavarian soldier from a Luftschiffer Ersatz Abteilung. The man’s name was Fischer. He was born in 1898. He joined the army in 1917 and was initially assigned to a Bavarian Luftschiffer Ersatz Abteilung. The militärpaß has a flip down page where you can see his complete service for nearly two years of WW I. In addition to numerous unit stamps from his initial unit, a stamp for his assignment to Feldluftschiffer-Abteilung Nr 1 is also present. A unit stamp for a Prussian Luftschiffer-Abteilung also appears, which I find particularly interesting. The militärpaß comes in a protective jacket. It has a wealth of material to research and dig into. $250.00

 

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21-231 ZEPPELIN FLOWN ENVELOPE - USA. Flying postcards, letters, and plain cards via zeppelin was always popular with the German people and their correspondents at the many worldwide zeppelin destinations. These items have a lot of detail to them, and remain quite popular to this date. Our offering today is an envelope that measures 4 1/4" x 6 1/2." The envelope was mailed to a Josef Goldberger in New York. In the upper left corner is a stamp that says "Erstflug Mit Luftschiff ‘Hindenburg L. Z. 129' nach Nord-Amerika." To the right we see a blue rubber stamp that reads "Mit Luftpost Par Avion." Below it and again to the left is a red rubber stamp that shows an airplane and a zeppelin flying together. Around the edge of the stamp is "Deutsche Luftpost Europa-Nordamerika." To its right is a canceled stamp in the amount of 50 Pfennig. The stamp shows a zeppelin in flight. The stamp’s top reads "Mit LZ 129 nach Nordamerika." The stamp is canceled from the Bahnpostamt in Frankfurt. On the reverse we see the return address of the sender, a Norbert Frischer in Vienna. Also it has a cancellation from New York, NY on 9 May 1936. This is particularly interesting, as the Hindenburg exploded into flames barely one year later at Lyndhurst, NJ. $175.00

 

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21-207 POSTCARD FLOWN - GRAF ZEPPELIN - AUSTRIA - GERMANY - 1931. Postcards and letters that were flown on the zeppelins Graf Zeppelin and Hindenburg were prized all over the world in the 1920's and 1930's. The premium prices paid for the luxury of mailing a postcard or letter on one of these two zeppelins were good bargains for people who never got to fly aboard one. Even here in the United States, special stamps were issued for the purpose of mailing items aboard one of the zeppelins. The always-popular gentle giants of the air flew all over the world, and made regular runs to the U.S. and South America. Today we are offering a postcard that was carried on a flight from Vienna to Germany. The simple card measures 4" x 6." At the top is a Luftpost blue sticker. In the upper right corner is a 1 Mark German postage stamp, featuring an eagle. It was canceled at Friedrichshafen on the Bodensee on 12 July 1931. In the center is another circular cancellation for 12 July 1931 from Vienna, with special emphasis that the postcard has traveled aboard the LZ 127 Graf Zeppelin. The lower left of the card has a triangular cancellation indicating it is for a 1931 flight of the Graf Zeppelin from Vienna. This was a relatively short "hop" from Friedrichshafen to Vienna. The card’s opposite side is blank. The primary purpose was to send the card to an individual, not to deliver an actual message, but to have something that actually flew on a zeppelin! $95.00

 

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21-250 TWO-PIECE TECHNICAL GROUPING - DIAGRAM - BLUEPRINT - ZEPPELIN. This is a mini grouping of a diagram and a blueprint pertaining to a zeppelin. The diagram measures 10" x 11 1/2." The blueprint measures 10" x 11 3/4." Both of them involve the zeppelin’s engine. $95.00

 

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21-206 SMALL SERVING TRAY - GRAF ZEPPELIN OR HINDENBURG. This is a small serving tray which was used on the zeppelin Hindenburg or the Graf Zeppelin airship. The bowl is curved and measures 7 3/4" in diameter. It has a high aluminum finish. It sports the Zeppelin Company’s hallmark in the center on the reverse. Items of this nature are always prized by collectors of zeppelin antiques. $625.00
 

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21-115 XRB SMALL TEASPOON SALUTING GRAF FERDINAND von ZEPPELIN. This is a consignment piece. It is a small demitasse teaspoon. The spoon’s bowl depicts Frankfurt in 1909. The skyline can be seen from the river. In the air is a zeppelin, an airplane, and a hotter-than-air-balloon. The spoon’s handle has a cutout likeness of Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin. $150.00

 

 

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21-125 FRAMED PAINTING - ZEPPELIN IN EGYPT. The zeppelins Graf Zeppelin and Hindenburg made voyages that touched a great portion of the earth. One of their more celebrated voyages included passing over the deserts of Egypt and the pyramids. Today we offer a period painting that shows one of the Zeppelins achieving this feat. The frame is a period, burled wood. The entire framed display measures 16 1/2" x 24." No glass covers the painting, which measures 14" x 21 3/4." The painting depicts the zeppelin flying over the Great Sphinx and between two pyramids. In the foreground are a party of Egyptians and camels. This naively styled painting is signed by the artist. If you are a zeppelin collector, this will certainly enhance your wall and your collection. $895.00 

 

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21-146 TABLE MEDAL - GRAF ZEPPELIN. This is an interesting early table medal for the Graf Zeppelin. The table medal is gilt-colored and measures 1" in diameter. The obverse features the Graf Zeppelin in profile, along with the date 1928 and "Graf Zeppelin." On the reverse we see something most interesting, the symbol for Shell Oil Co. Within the shell we also see the word "Shell." I would expect that this is some kind of sponsorship deal that the Zeppelin Company had with Shell Oil. $60.00  

 

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21-201 GRAF FERDINAND von ZEPPELIN MEDAL. This is a lovely medal that commemorates Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin. The medal is circular. It measures 1 1/4" in diameter. $195.00

 

 

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21-205 TABLE MEDAL - HUGO ECKNER AND LZ 126. This is a circular table medal commemorating the LZ 126. The LZ 126 was a part of Germany's war reparations to the victorious allies. Dr. Hugo Eckner, who assumed the Zeppelin Company’s control after Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin's death, personally delivered the LZ 126 to the U. S. Navy at Lakehurst, New Jersey in 1924. [Lakehurst was where the zeppelin Hindenburg exploded thirteen years later]. The LZ 126 became the U. S. S. Los Angeles. The medal’s obverse displays a high-relief likeness of Dr. Hugo Eckner. Its reverse depicts the LZ 126 and the various stops on her voyage to America. $210.00

 

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21-202 HUGO ECKNER - SMALL TABLE MEDAL - BRONZE. Over the years we have offered several examples of Karl Goetz’s beautifully executed table medal, which commemorates the voyage of the LZ-126 from Germany to the USA. As a part of the WW I’s reparations, Germany was obligated to turn over a zeppelin to the U. S. government. This all took place in 1924. Hugo Eckner was the company’s head. Like old Graf von Zeppelin himself, he was a real salesman and promoter. He knew if he was to save his company, he had to convince the world that zeppelins had potential not only as military tools, but as ultimate travel conveyances between countries. This was particularly true when crossing large bodies of water was involved. Ultimately, zeppelins made frequent trans-Atlantic voyages to the U.S., South America, and even Japan. The good doctor himself personally flew the LZ-126 to Boston, New York and finally, Lakehurst, NJ (scene of the destruction of the LZ-129 Hindenburg in May 1937), where it was handed over to American authorities and renamed the U. S. S. Los Angeles. Eckner went on to design and build the highly successful LZ-127 Graf Zeppelin and the LZ-129 Hindenburg. The table medal is quite unusual. All of the previous table medals I have seen commemorating the event were made of silver, nickel, or even aluminum. This example is gold-toned and is made of either brass or bronze, possibly. All of its other details are identical with the other medals. The obverse shows Hugo Eckner. The reverse shows the LZ-126 flying across the Atlantic. Below that are details of the flight. At the table medal’s very top somebody has neatly drilled a small hole so that it might have had a ring installed for supporting a ribbon, or for some other similar purpose. $125.00

 

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21-222 INFLATABLE ZEPPELIN FROM THE MOTION PICTURE - "ZEPPELIN." During the 20th Century when motion pictures were released, interesting items were often shipped to theaters to help promote the movies. The most basic was a "Theater Card." It had information on the actors, the studio, etc. Today we are offering a very interesting item from the motion picture "Zeppelin." The movie was released in 1971 by Warner Brothers. The stars were Michael York and Elke Sommer. The item is an inflatable zeppelin that measures 37 1/2" in length and 21 1/2" in height. It is silver in color." Zeppelin is coming from Warner Bros" is printed on both sides. The zeppelin is reasonably detailed. String attachments are at the top where it could have been hung for display. It has a valve where one can blow it up. This is a great zeppelin item from a movie that was released thirty-eight years ago. $225.00

 

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21-223 ZEPPELIN CUTOUT CARD - MOTION PICTURE "ZEPPELIN." During the 20th Century when motion pictures were released, interesting items were often shipped to theaters to help promote the movies. The most basic was a "Theater Card." It had information on the actors, the studio, etc. Today we are offering a very interesting item from the motion picture "Zeppelin." The movie was released in 1971 by Warner Brothers. The stars were Michael York and Elke Sommer. The item is a cutout zeppelin card that measures 16 3/4" in length and 3" in height. The card is two-sided. Each side of the card has "Zeppelin" written in white German Fraktur lettering. The "i" is dotted with an Iron Cross. Another small Iron Cross appears on the tail. The card’s top has a small punched-out hole. This allowed a string to be run through it and then the "Zeppelin" card could hang from a ceiling. This is a great zeppelin item from a movie that was released thirty-eight years ago. We have two of these. $50.00 each

 

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21-238 ZEPPELIN CANDY BAG. This is one of the zeppelin candy bags that were very popular in Germany. The bag measures 8 1/2" x 3 3/4," and has a flap that folds over. These were used in the 1920's and 1930's. The bag’s front shows a zeppelin showering candy on children below. On the reverse of the bag is the "Zeppelin Song." The price is on the obverse and reverse, 10 Pfennig. The bag is in MINT condition. $95.00

 

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21-241 STICKPIN - LZ. 129 - HINDENBURG. This is a stickpin for the zeppelin Hindenburg (LZ. 129). The airship, along with the Graf Zeppelin (LZ. 127), was famous the world over as Germany ambassador. The Hindenburg exploded in flames 6 May 1937 over Lakehurst, NJ. The stickpin is gilt-toned, and has the airship designation number stamped on the hull. The stickpin was also made after 1933, as the Hindenburg’s rudders display swastikas. The stickpin’s overall length is 1 3/4," while the zeppelin’s width is 1 1/2." $110.00

 

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21-242 TINNIE - ZEPPELIN - FRIEDRICHSHAFEN. This is a tinnie that measures 1 1/8" x 1 3/4." Two small holes are drilled into either end. At the tinnie’s top a zeppelin floats in the sky over the city of Friedrichshafen. The city is located on Lake Konstanz. The zeppelin’s early hangers were constructed on the lake. If we look carefully, we can see a hanger with another zeppelin in it. At the top is "Friedrichshafen A/B." At the bottom is "Luftschiffbau Zeppelin." It is an interesting piece. $95.00

 

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21-144 SIX ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPHS - LZ 127 GRAF ZEPPELIN A DELUXE FOLIO. This is a deluxe folio of original photographs of the Graf Zeppelin (LZ 127) while she was under construction at the Zeppelin factory in Friedrichshafen. The photos, which all measure 4 1/2" x 7," show the Graf Zeppelin in various stages of construction. Included is a paper that lists the technical details of the airship. The six photos and the technical description are housed in a folio that measures 5 1/2" x 7 1/4." The obverse of the folio describes the topic and sports the date 1928. This is a fine item for you zeppelin collectors. $225.00  

 

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21-200 ZEPPELIN: DER MENSCH - DER KAMPFER - DER SIEGER by DR. ADOLF SAAGER. GRAF FERDINAND von ZEPPELIN’S BIOGRAPHY IN THE ORIGINAL STORAGE BOX - SIGNED BY DR. HUGO ECKNER. This is an engrossing, German-language biography of Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin (1838-1917). Von Zeppelin had cultivated a longtime interest in airships before he even thought of producing them. He came to the USA as an observer of the Union Army’s balloon operations during 1863. Although he was still a German Army officer, he did not have an overly successful career. He retired as a Generalmajor in about 1890. It was then that he began his airship production efforts in earnest. The German public was captivated by the sight of zeppelins flying across Germany. The German public was always generous and supportive of efforts to advance German aviation. After one of the early zeppelins crashed, a large donation program was begun and a substantial sum raised. This enabled von Zeppelin to further his experiments and develop bigger and better airships. Prior to WW I more than 30,000 Germans flew on more than zeppelin 1,500 flights, with no substantial problems. As the clouds of WW I began to form, the German Army and Navy realized the zeppelins’ potential for scouting and bombing roles. The Navy had a higher profile with zeppelins than did the Army. While their actual contribution to the war effort was more psychological than material, the zeppelins did leave their mark. Peter Strasser, commander of the Navy Zeppelins (1876-1918), was a hero in Germany. For his efforts, he was awarded with the presentation of the Orden Pour le Mérite. Strasser died in a fiery crash in 1918, while leading a bombing mission in the L-70. Ferdinand von Zeppelin died in 1917, and did not see the full realization of his gentle giants’ potential.  After WW I, Hugo Eckner both saved and led the company. As a part of Germany’s war reparations, Eckner and the Zeppelin Company supplied the LZ-126 to the U.S. Eckner had the instincts of a showman. He personally brought the LZ-126 to the U.S. authorities. He gained a great deal of media attention for the faltering company, which ultimately lead to the highly-successful launching of the Graf Zeppelin. The Graf Zeppelin was a commercial success. After many long voyages often personally conducted by Eckner, including around the world voyages, the Graf Zeppelin was joined by the Hindenburg. The sight of the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg flying around the world gained a lot of pride, for the German people and their aviation industry. With Nazi Party’s rise to power, Adolf Hitler knew a good thing when he saw it. He began using the two zeppelins for propaganda purposes. Swastikas were placed on the two airships’ rudders. They were used extensively at the Berlin Summer Olympic Games of 1936. When the Hindenburg exploded in flames at Lakehurst, NJ in May 1937, the use of zeppelins as air transport was at an end. [As an interesting aside: in Friedrichshafen, Germany, the original site of the zeppelins’ construction, a reconstituted Zeppelin Company has a smaller version back in the air in which the public can still ride]. Getting back to our book, this is a biography of Ferdinand von Zeppelin’s life. It places special emphasis on the WW I years, as the book was written in 1915. The book is not illustrated, with the exception of a photograph and reproduction of the Graf Zeppelin’s signature. Inside, the book has been autographed by Hugo Eckner! The book has its original dust jacket. The book is housed inside of the original, cardboard protecting carton. It features the book’s name and the author. $295.00

 

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21-131 GERMAN-LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER - GRAF von ZEPPELIN COVER. This is a German language newspaper "Das Leben im Bild." The edition is from 1916, with eight pages of material. Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin is on the cover. Inside is a story with photos of Oswald Boelcke and Max Immelmann. Other photos show the German Army in action. One article is complete with illustrations about mine laying, while another reports about film making! It has all of the latest information from 1916 (at the time!), the year that Immelmann and Boelcke both died, and the year before Graf von Zeppelin was to die. $60.00

 

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21-248 COLOR POSTCARD - TOWED EARLY ZEPPELIN - LAKE KONSTANZ - FRIEDRICHSHAFEN. This is a special commemorative postcard for the LZ 1, which was first launched in 1900. The airship was built and flown from Lake Konstanz at Friedrichshafen. The color postcard was specifically designed and mailed with special cancellations by the Deutsche Post on 5 August 1983. It commemorates the 75th anniversary (1908-1983) of Friedrichshafen’s Zeppelin Museum. $30.00

 

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21-127 ORIGINAL 1937 FRONT PAGE - ZEPPELIN HINDENBURG CRASH. This is an original front page (with the facing second page) recounting the disastrous explosion of the zeppelin Hindenburg. The newspaper comes from Frankfurt am Main, a common zeppelin port of call. The paper is dated 7 May 1937. It has been folded in half, but remains in very good condition. This really should be framed using conservation methods. $395,00 

 

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21-251 GERMAN-LANGUAGE ARTICLE - RADIOS ABOARD ZEPPELINS - DER DEUTSCHE RUNDFUNK. This is a German-language article that comes from Der Deutsche Rundfunk. It tells the story about radios and radio rooms aboard zeppelins. The article goes into great detail about zeppelins’ radio rooms and the technical aspects of usage of radios onboard. This is a post WW I article. $30.00

 

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21-252 GERMAN-LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER - DELIVERY - ZEPPELIN - U.S. This is a German-language newspaper the Berliner Illustrierte Zeitung. The edition was published in November 1923. The issue’s cover shows a German zeppelin, piloted by Dr. Hugo Eckner, as it lands in Lakehurst, New Jersey. This zeppelin was turned over to the U.S. government as a part of war reparations levied against Germany after WW I. It became the U.S.S. Los Angeles. Nearly thirty pages are in the newspaper, with articles of all sorts. A particularly interesting article is about dictators, including Julius Caesar, Benito Mussolini, and Lenin. A certain would-be dictator from Bavaria was not yet a national figure, but would be when he assumed power in 1933. $40.00

 

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21-239 CORRESPONDENCE - MAGAZINES -"NEW ZEPPELIN" - 1966. This grouping has a letter soliciting information about the demolition of zeppelin hangars in Frankfort, a one page ad for a new (1960’s) zeppelin service in Frankfort, the three magazines from an airship navigation society, and the envelope in which the information was delivered. The letter is from Herr J. A. Becker, a member of the Verein Für Luftschiffahrt e.V. Landesgruppe Hessen (Society for Airship Navigation - Hessian State Group). He is writing to a Herr Otto Jung regarding some photos the latter sent to Becker. The letter’s text is as follows:

Herzlichen Dank für die Zusendung der Fotos von der Sprengung der beiden Zeppelinhallen in Frankfurt. Die Fotos sind für uns sehr wertvoll. Gut wäre es, wenn Sie noch den Film zu diesen Aufnahmen hätten um Vergrößerungen machen zu können. Falls Sie den Film noch haben sollten wäre ich für ein kurzfristige Überlassung dankbar.

Da Sie damals als Funker Die Sprengung der Zeppelinhallen miterlebt haben, wäre ich Ihnen sehr dankbar, wenn Sie mir einen erlebnisbericht über die Sprengung zukommen liesen. Haben Sie auch die Zerstörung der beiden Zeppeline LZ 127 u. 130 miterlebt? Wie war damals die Stimmung bei den Leuten die bei der Sprengung der beiden Hallen und der Zerstörung der beiden Zeppeline mitgewirkt, oder als Zuschauer anwesend waren?

Für Ihre Bemühungen danke ich Ihnen im Namen aller alten Zeppelinfahrer und des Vereins für Luftschiffahrt. Als Anerkennung erhalten Sie für Ihre Mitarbeit die in der Anlage beigefügten 3 Hefte "Die Welt der Luftschiffe."

(Cordial thanks for sending us the pictures of the demolition of the two zeppelin warehouses in Frankfurt. The photos are very valuable to us. It would be good, if you have the film from these shots, to be able to make enlargements. If you still have the movie, I would be grateful to lease it for a short term.
Since you lived through those days, the destruction of the Zeppelin halls, as a radio operator, I would be very grateful if you could give me an exciting report about the demolition. Did you witness the destruction of the two airships, LZ 127 and 130? How was the mood among the people who were involved in the demolition of the two buildings and the destruction of the two airships, or of those attending as spectators? For your efforts, I thank you in the name of all the old zeppelin pilots and the society for airship navigation. In recognition for your cooperation, please receive the enclosed 3 issues of The World of the Airships).

The text for the advertisement is as follows:

FRANKFURT UND NEUE SICHERE! LUFTSCHIFFE.

Frankfort, die Stadt der Luftschifftradition, soll wieder Mittelpunkt des Luftschiffbaues werden! Genau wie der Henninger-Turm jetzt ein Bestandteil und ein Wahrzeichen von Frankfurt geworden ist, so war einst die DELAG und die ZEPPELIN - Reederei mit der schönen Stadt am Main verwachsen und zu einem wahren Begriff geworden. Die neuen Luftschiffe, die nun heute nur mit dem unbrennbaren Heliumgas gefüllt werden sollen, garantieren daher für Jedermann eine fast 100% Sicherheit im Fluge.

(FRANKFURT AND NEW SECURE! AIRSHIPS.

Frankfort, the city of airship tradition, will again be the center of airship construction! Just as the Henninger Tower has become a part and a symbol of Frankfurt, so the DELAG and ZEPPELIN - Shipping Company was once, with the beautiful city on the Main healed and become a genuine concept. The new airships, which today are supposed to be filled only with incombustible helium gas, guarantee almost 100% safety in flight for everyone).
The airships Hindenburg and Graf Zeppelin were denied use of helium by the U.S. government after Adolf Hitler’s rise to power and his zeppelin-centered propaganda. The LZ 127 and LZ 130 were destroyed by Hermann Göring’s orders in 1940, as were Frankfort’s zeppelin hangers. Included in the information packet are three copies of Die Welt Der Luftschiffe from 1963. These magazines have information and photos of the zeppelins from the 1930's. This is an engrossing set of documents and pamphlets.
$125.00

 

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21-171 ZEPPELIN TILE. This is a most unusual kitchen tile featuring a zeppelin in flight. The tile measures 3 3/4" x 4 1/8." The zeppelin is in high relief. Look closely, and you can see a light house and a ship at sea. While the tile is white, some trim on all four corners is blue. The tile’s back has information on its manufacturer. $395.00  

 

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21-213 1937 HOTEL LISTING - FRIEDRICHSHAFEN. Friedrichshafen was the home of the zeppelins. Graf Ferdinand built his airships in this picturesque town and even had zeppelin hangers on the lake. It was a great location in Southern Germany, with good access to Italy, Switzerland, Austria, and France. The menu’s front depicts an early zeppelin flying over Lake Konstanz. Inside is a listing of hotels and guest houses in the city during 1937. $95.00

 

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21-173 HOOK AND EYE CARD - ZEPPELIN. This is an interesting complete card of the hooks and eyes that were commonly used on Imperial Period clothing. Zippers were not in use yet, so these small devices, (and buttons) were used to secure garments. The card measures 2 1/2" x 4 3/4." It contains twelve of the small devices. While this was the "Bato" brand, it features an early zeppelin (pre 1908) flying over the countryside. $55.00  

 

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21-86 ZEPPELIN AUTOMOBILE OR BUS TOY. Zeppelins have always sparked a special interest in people all over the world. Something about those giants of the air captured people’s imaginations, not only in Germany but everywhere they flew. I cannot begin to tell you the various forms of "zeppelin-mania" that erupted not just in Germany, but even here in the USA. The U.S. was an important market to the Zeppelin company. The Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg were seen across the country from Los Angeles to Lakehurst, New Jersey. [Just to give you an idea of the breadth of this mania, I have in my collection a "repro" zeppelin cocktail shaker]!  The item we are offering today is a glass automobile or small bus of a zeppelin! This is really wild-looking. The vehicle is clearly shaped like a zeppelin, including ridges at the top to further the resemblance. As if that were not enough, it has a rudder to further confirm that it is supposed to be a zeppelin on wheels! This small toy measures 5" in length and 1 5/8" in width. If you look underneath to where the chassis should be, it is stamped "Chicago, Illinois." While this was American-made (either in the 1920's or 1930's, most likely in the 1930's) I purchased it in Germany! At some point it made its way across the Atlantic. Perhaps it even made a flight on a zeppelin as a gift for some wide-eyed German youngster. Who knows? You can see this piece’s age particularly in its wheels, and in the texture and finish of the glass. This is quite an interesting item. While I had heard of these before, this is the first one that I have encountered. $450.00 . .

 

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18-179 PATRIOTIC CUP FOR THE AIR SERVICE, LUFTSCHIFFER SERVICE, AND THE KAISERLICHE MARINE. This is a wonderful cup that salutes three of the most highly visible branches of the German military. Commemorated here are the Imperial German Air Service, the Zeppelin Service, and the Imperial German Navy. The cup measures 5" in height. It is 3 1/8" in diameter at the lip and 2 1/4" in diameter at the base. The central theme of the cup is an outline of an Iron Cross. Within the Iron Cross we see an airplane, zeppelin, and various navy ships. Included in the vessels are surface ships and a U-boat. This is very well made by a firm in Bavaria. It is in excellent condition. $350.00 . .

 

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21-78 ZEPPELIN BRACELET. At first glance, this appears to be one of the popular WW I bracelets made from an artillery shell driving band. A closer look, however, reveals it to be a plain copper band without any driving band markings. What provides the interest is that the bracelet’s central motif is a zeppelin! In fact, TWO zeppelins are attached to the bracelet. It also sports a small drilled hole, for which I cannot offer an explanation. The bracelet breaks in half to place it on the wrist. A catch is present to ensure that it stays in place. No markings or hallmarking are present on the inside. It is quite a handsome piece. $215.00. . .

 

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21-79 ZEPPELIN TIN BOX. This is a large format tin box measuring 7 3/4" x 4 ½" x 3 1/4." In fact, this box once held tea! Five different panels on its outside depict life in and around Frankfurt prior to WW I. The lid of the box shows the most wear of the five panels. The most interesting of the remaining four panels features a zeppelin flying over the city. This box would be great for display. It has a spacious holding capacity. This lovely item would look very charming on a bookshelf or holding your special treasures. $225.00. . .

 

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21-134 XRB MATCH SAFE - ENGRAVED - GRAF ZEPPELIN. This is a consignment piece. Accessories for smoking were very popular during prewar, wartime, and post WW I Germany. Cigarette cases, match safes, etc., were among the many items that were quite popular during the period. We have offered match safes of many kinds in the past made from the centers of belt buckles. This is a higher caliber match safe AND it is zeppelin related. The match safe measures 2 1/4" x 2 1/4." The exterior of the case is engraved with a random motif rather than just being unadorned. Inside the case is engraved "Luftschiff Graf Zeppelin 18 Juni (19)30." On the edge of the safe are manufacturer’s and silver hallmarkings. It is great little item for you zeppelin collectors $275.00

 

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21-82 ZEPPELIN SCHNAPPS GLASS. This is a small schnapps glass celebrating the city of Friedrichshafen and its involvement with zeppelins. Hand painted in multiple colors on the glass’s front is the city with a zeppelin overhead. Also appearing in the painted area is the legend, "Friedrichshafen Bodensee." This small cup stands 2 1/4" tall. I have never seen a shape quite like this on items of this nature. It is in excellent condition. $225.00. . .

 

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21-83 FRAMED HAND COLORED PHOTOGRAPH OF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN WITH A ZEPPELIN. Let me begin by telling how exquisite this piece is. It is a hand colored photograph of Friedrichshafen circa 1900 to 1910. It looks down on the city as it meanders along the edge of Lake Konstanz. Friedrichshafen was the zeppelin’s birthplace under the care of Graf (Count) von Zeppelin. The airships were often seen in the sky over the city and the lake, which separates Germany from Switzerland. Indeed, this portrait depicts a zeppelin in flight. The photo is quite unusual as it is slightly vaulted under the glass of the frame! A small brass plaque under the glass identifies the city as "Friedrichshafen a/B." The frame is gilt, with short diagonal black lines accenting the molding. The frame and photo measure 6" x 5." On the back both an easel and a ring appear by which the piece can be displayed. It is in delightful shape and is of the highest caliber. A lot of pride went into the manufacture of this item. $225.00. . .

 

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21-163 GRAF ZEPPELIN BADGE. This is one of the ever popular zeppelin badges that one could acquire from the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. This particular example is for the Graf Zeppelin (LZ-127). It measures 1 3/4" in diameter. It has fine multi colored (it is predominately a dark green) enamel and is in top condition. $195.00

 

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21-120 ZEPPELIN GUEST’S HAND TOWEL. This is a most unusual guest towel, which was hung in the bathroom to "make pretty" for guests. When I first saw this, I thought it was a table scarf. Then I saw a loop sewn onto the towel’s edge so it could be hung from a hook. This allowed one to display its marvelous exterior. Towels are hung like this in Germany today, to dry one’s hands on at the sink. The towel measures 20 1/2" x 18 1/2." It is woven in a handsome gray, red and white damask pattern. Three central panels alternate zeppelin and balloon motifs. This towel is in mint condition. From the looks of it, it was never used. You will be struck by the caliber of this towel. I believe it would be very difficult to produce such a superior towel today. $325.00 

 

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21-91 DEMITASSE CUP AND SAUCER WITH ZEPPELIN MOTIF. This is a wonderful demitasse cup and saucer. The six-sided cup has a pearlescent yellow exterior. An image of a zeppelin flying over a lake is emblazoned on the cup’s side. The zeppelin is marked Friedrichshafen a/Bodensee, which was the home of the zeppelins, where they were designed and built. The interior of the cup and the trim on the rim, the handle and feet of the cup are gold. The matching saucer is the same color, with a matching gold trim highlight. This is a lovely matching set with a lot of vibrancy to it. $275.00

 

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21-77 ZEPPELIN ECKNER SPENDE PIN. Hugo Eckner was the guiding light of the Zeppelin company during and after WW I. Besides being a first-rate engineer, he was a marketeer and PR man supreme. He negotiated to present a zeppelin to the U.S. as a part of Germany’s reparations. This zeppelin became the U.S.S. Los Angeles. In the midst of all of this, and the battle to keep the firm solvent in postwar Germany, Eckner managed to maintain the interest of the German public just as had Ferdinand von Zeppelin. Like von Zeppelin, Eckner went to the German public for financial assistance to continue his work. The German public, in spite of their own post WW I misfortune, responded by offering donations to keep the company afloat. This pin was a part of that program. The people responded to "Zeppelin Eckner Spende" just as they had for Aviation Spendes, U-boat Spendes, "Gold for Iron", etc. Causes such as these were always hugely popular. In appreciation of their support, the supporters were given pins, medals, etc. This pin is made of silk and is oval-shaped. It features the name of the cause and a zeppelin in flight. All of this was woven in four colors. This particular pin is in MINT condition. $95.00 . .

 

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21-45 WOODEN BOX FOR A ZEPPELIN. This is an oversized box that measures 9 ½" x 6 1/4" x 4." This box would be suitable for holding documents or jewelry. The top of this hand-carved box has the coat-of-arms for the city-state of Hamburg. The front of the box is hand carved as well and reads "Hamburg." Inside the box is carved the legend "Zum Zeppelin." Very fine workmanship. $675.00

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21-48 PATRIOTIC BOX FOR THE ZEPPELIN SERVICE. This is a very fine patriotic box that has been hand carved. It salutes the zeppelin service. This box measures 8" x 6" x 4 ½." It has a very intricately crenellated (notched like battlements) pattern around much of the exterior. On the lid is a Hohenzollern Eagle, which appears to be made of brass. There is also a small brass pull on the top lid that allows access to the interior. The front panel of the box displays a beautiful hand carved, high-relief zeppelin. This is a darker color than the wood on which it appears. Inside, the wood of the box presents a burled appearance. This is, however, a paper-like material that has been applied to the inside surface. This is a wonderful example of German woodcarving art. It is especially unique since it salutes zeppelins. $450.00.

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21-46 ID BRACELET FOR A ZEPPELIN. This ID bracelet has a zeppelin as the centerpiece. There is also a brass tag with the numbers 31-613. Total length of the bracelet is 8". $295.00.

 


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21-166 TABLE MEDAL - DR. HUGO ECKNER AND LZ-126. This is a circular table medal commemorating the LZ 126. The LZ 126 was a part of Germany’s war reparations to the victorious allies. Dr. Hugo Eckner, who assumed the Zeppelin company’s control after Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin’s death, personally delivered the LZ 126 to the U. S. Navy at Lakehurst, New Jersey in 1924. [Lakehurst was where the zeppelin Hindenburg exploded thirteen years later]. The LZ 126 became the U. S. S. Los Angeles. The medal’s obverse shows a high-relief likeness of Dr. Hugo Eckner. Its reverse depicts the LZ 126 and the various stops on her voyage to America. $210.00  

 

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We recently acquired a large collection of WW I Luftschiffer and Balloon Photographs. They came to us in an album that was falling apart. We had no choice but to remove them and offer them to you individually. It is a wonderful assortment, which we will be sharing with you for the next several weeks.

 

40-460 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - PRE WW I ZEPPELIN SACHSEN. This is an original photograph that measures 3 1/4" x 4 1/2." It depicts the pre WW I zeppelin "Sachsen." She was placed into service in May 1913. Before the beginning of WW I, she transported nearly 10,000 people. When the war began, she was placed in the Army’s service and became known as the LZ 17. She participated in bombing raids and retired from service in 1916. She is shown just a few feet off the ground, with a large number of people around her. The zeppelin’s name has not yet been painted forward. No doubt exists that she is the Sachsen. $30.00

 

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40-461 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - PRE WW I ZEPPELIN SACHSEN. This is an original photograph that measures 3" x 4." It depicts the pre WW I zeppelin "Sachsen." She was placed into service in May 1913. Before the beginning of WW I, she transported nearly 10,000 people. When the war began, she was placed in the Army’s service and became known as the LZ 17. She participated in bombing raids and retired from service in 1916. She is shown just a few feet off the ground, with a large number of people around her. $40.00

 

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40-462 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - PRE WW I ZEPPELIN SACHSEN. This is an original photograph that measures 4 1/2" x 3 1/4." It depicts the pre WW I zeppelin "Sachsen." She was placed into service in May 1913. Before the beginning of WW I, she transported nearly 10,000 people. When the war began, she was placed in the Army’s service and became known as the LZ 17. She participated in bombing raids and retired from service in 1916. This shot is looking on at the zeppelin’s bow. She is still on the ground, as her engines are not turning over. A large crowd is gathered around her. $30.00

 

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40-463 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - PRE WW I ZEPPELIN SACHSEN. This is an original photograph that measures 3 1/4" x 4 1/2." It depicts the pre WW I zeppelin "Sachsen." She was placed into service in May 1913. Before the beginning of WW I, she transported nearly 10,000 people. When the war began, she was placed in the Army’s service and became known as the LZ 17. She participated in bombing raids and retired from service in 1916. In the photograph one is looking up and under the zeppelin. The shot was taken of the zeppelin’s forward portion. One of the two gondolas can be seen. $30.00

 

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40-464 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - PRE WW I ZEPPELIN SACHSEN. This is an original photograph that measures 3 1/4" x 4 1/2." It depicts the pre WW I zeppelin "Sachsen." She was placed into service in May 1913. Before the beginning of WW I, she transported nearly 10,000 people. When the war began, she was placed in the Army’s service and became known as the LZ 17. She participated in bombing raids and retired from service in 1916. This shot shows the zeppelin’s stern. She is still in her hanger, but appears to being pulled out. Men are pulling on lines and others are directing the action. $30.00

 

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40-465 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - UNIDENTIFIED ZEPPELIN. This is an original photograph measuring of a zeppelin’s bow (which I cannot identify). It appears similar in some ways to the Sachsen, but differences can be noted. $30.00

 

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40-466 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - UNIDENTIFIED ZEPPELIN. This is an original photograph measuring of a zeppelin’s bow (which I cannot identify). It appears similar in some ways to the Sachsen, but differences can be noted. $30.00

 

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40-467 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - UNIDENTIFIED ZEPPELIN. This is an original photograph measuring of a zeppelin’s bow (which I cannot identify). It appears similar in some ways to the Sachsen, but differences can be noted. $30.00

 

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40-469 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - GERMAN GUN CREW - ARTILLERY PIECE, This is an original photograph that has been printed on postcard stock. It shows a gun crew of a large-caliber artillery piece in position to serve the cannon when a fire mission is ordered. A total of ten men surrounds the cannon, including one NCO who serves as the gun captain. $20.00

 

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40-470 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - GERMAN SOLDIERS - BUNKER. This is an original photograph that was printed on postcard stock. It shows ten soldiers, one NCO and one officer gathered in front and on top of a bunker. A description appears on the reverse. It may be a Battalion HQ. $10.00

 

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40-471 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - YOUNG SOLDIER. This is an original photograph that has been printed on postcard stock. It shows a young Prussian soldier wearing a pickelhaube and holding a rifle as he stands in front of a fairly large building (which may be his barracks). The photographer was located in Altona, a modern day Hamburg suburb. $10.00

 

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40-411 MATTED PHOTOGRAPH - TWO BALLOONS - PRE WW I. This is a matted photograph that depicts two balloons. The matted photograph measures 6 1/4" x 7 3/4." The actual photograph housed within the matting measures 4" x 5 3/4." A large group of men is watching the proceedings on what appears to be a testing field. The date 19 April 1901 appears at the matte’s bottom. $75.00

 

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40-412 MATTED PHOTOGRAPH - BALLOON - PRE WW I. This is a matted photograph that depicts one balloon. The matted photograph measures 8 1/4" x 6." The actual photograph housed within the matting measures 5" x 3 1/8." A large group of army officers is gathered around the balloon’s gondola. The photograph dates from early in the 20th Century. $75.00

 

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40-413 THREE-PHOTOGRAPH SET - EARLY ZEPPELIN. This is a three-photograph set that shows an early zeppelin as it readies for flight. A name is written on each photograph ‘s reverse, which looks like "Lachmüller," or something similar.

*Nr 1. The photograph measures 4 3/4" x 5 1/4." The zeppelin is tethered to the ground, while its small gondola is on the ground allowing passengers to embark. A large group of military officers and ground crew is on the airfield.

*Nr 2. The photograph measures 4 3/4" x 6 1/4." The zeppelin has just lifted off. The gondola is under it, while the ground crew and observers are watching it take off.

*Nr 3. The photograph measures 6 1/4" x 4 1/2." The zeppelin is in full flight, perhaps 100-200 meters above the ground. Some smoke or a wisp of fog is right under the zeppelin. I do not know or understand its cause, unless it is related to a factory smoke stack in the background.

This is a fine grouping of a very early zeppelin as it goes from being readied for flight, to launch, and to actual flight. $125.00

 

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40-414 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - ZEPPELIN SACHSEN - HANGER. This is an ORIGINAL photograph that measures 3 1/4" x 4 1/2." It depicts the pre WW I zeppelin "Sachsen." She was placed in service in May 1913. Before WW I began, she transported nearly 10,000 people. Once the war started, she was placed in the Army’s service and became known as the LZ 17. She participated in bombing raids, then was retired from service in 1916. She is shown in her hanger prior to being wheeled out and launched. $50.00

 

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40-415 ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH - ZEPPELIN SACHSEN OUTSIDE - HANGER. This is an ORIGINAL photograph that measures  3 1/4" x 4 1/2." It depicts the pre WW I zeppelin "Sachsen." She was placed in service in May 1913. Before WW I began, she transported nearly 10,000 people. Once the war started, she was placed in the Army’s service and became known as the LZ 17. She participated in bombing raids, then was retired from service in 1916. She is shown outside her hanger, with a large number of people gathered around her. $50.00

 

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40-416 LARGE-FORMAT PHOTOGRAPH - HANGER - MECHANICS - ZEPPELIN ENGINES. This is a large-format photograph that measures 6 1/2" x 9." It shows several mechanics working on zeppelins’ engine assemblies. The action is taking place in a large hanger. $50.00

 

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40-417 LARGE-FORMAT PHOTOGRAPH - AERIAL VIEW - SAXON FELDLUFTSCHIFFER-ABTEILUNG. This is a large-format photograph that measures 6 1/4" x 6 1/4." It is an aerial photograph from approximately 1,000 meters. It shows a town in the foreground. On the reverse it is unit stamped for 2. Königl. Sächs. Feldluftschiffer-Abteilung Nr 32. It is pencil-dated 18 March 1918. The area’s or city’s name is added in pencil as well. $40.00

 

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40-418 LARGE-FORMAT PHOTOGRAPH - ZEPPELIN ENGINE. This is a large-format photograph that measures 6 1/2" x 8 3/4." It shows a zeppelin engine that has been removed from the airship. $30.00

 

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40-419 LARGE-FORMAT PHOTOGRAPH - ZEPPELIN ENGINE. This is a large-format photograph that measures 6 1/2" x 8 3/4." It shows a zeppelin engine that has been removed from the airship. $30.00

 

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40-420 LARGE-FORMAT PHOTOGRAPH - ZEPPELIN ENGINE. This is a large-format photograph that measures 6 1/2" x 8 3/4." It shows a zeppelin engine that has been removed from the airship. $30.00

 

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 Zeppelin - Aviation-Related Postage Stamps
From Around the World
.

All stamps in this special section are now available for 20% off!!

 

21-150 LARGE FORMAT POSTAGE STAMP - LZ-127 GRAF ZEPPELIN - OVER ROMANIA’S CAPITAL. This is a single large postage stamp from Romania, which commemorates the LZ-127 Graf Zeppelin. The stamp measures a whopping 2 3/4" x 3 1/4." It is dated 16 October 1929. It is multicolored and shows the Graf Zeppelin in profile over a city that I presume to be Bucharest. The stamp, which was printed for collectors, bears a serial number of 078062. It is in excellent condition, and has been preserved in a plastic holder. $35.00  

 

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21-151 THREE POSTAGE STAMP SET - EARLY ZEPPELINS - REPUBLIC OF VOLTA. This is a set of three postage stamps commemorating the early zeppelins. The set includes the following:

 

*A 10 Franc stamp that shows the Zeppelin "Deutschland" flying over a German town. The stamp measures 1 1/2" x 2 1/2." It has been cancelled, and is in a plastic holder. It is in excellent condition.

*A 40 Franc stamp that shows the Zeppelin "Viktoria Luise" flying over five sailboats. The stamp measures 1 1/2" x 2 1/2." It has been cancelled and is in a plastic holder. It is in excellent condition.

*A 50 Franc stamp that shows the Zeppelin "Sachsen." The stamp measures 1 1/2" x 2 1/2." It has been cancelled, and is in a plastic holder. It is in excellent condition.

This full-color trio of stamps is in excellent condition. $50.00  

 

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21-152 LARGE FORMAT POSTAGE STAMP - GRAF ZEPPELIN - REPUBLIC DE COTE D’IVOIRE. This is a deluxe postage stamp that was issued by the Republique De Cote D’Ivoire(Ivory Coast) in 1977. The stamp is for 500 Francs. The stamp itself measures 1 1/4" x 1 1/2." It shows the Graf Zeppelin in profile over a city. The stamp is in full color. The stamp is part of a larger display that shows an early zeppelin along with "Retrospective Zeppelin." The overall size of the display of the Graf Zeppelin measures 3 3/4" x 5 1/2." $40.00  

 

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21-153 PLATE BLOCK - FOUR STAMPS - HUNGARY - EXPLORING AVIATION ERAS. This is a plate block of four stamps, showing various eras in the history of aviation. They were issued for Aerofila in 1967 by Hungary. The four stamps showcase Man and his early efforts in Aviation. The plate block is very decorative. Its overall measurements are 3 3/4" x 5." Each stamp measures 1 3/4" x 1 1/8." $35.00  

 

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21-174 THREE-STAMP SET - ZEPPELINS - REPUBLIC OF MALAGASY. These large-format stamps each show a zeppelin in flight, along with a small, inset depiction of Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin. One zeppelin flies over the Egyptian Pyramids, another over Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, and the third over London). The three represent different denominations. All were cancelled in the 1970's. $25.00  

 

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21-154 BLOCK - EIGHT STAMPS - SPAIN - ZEPPELIN. This is a block of eight stamps, featuring a zeppelin from Spain. All are attached and a part of a unit.  $25.00  

 

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21-155 SET - TWO STAMPS - GRAF FERDINAND von ZEPPELIN AND ZEPPELINS - GERMAN BUNDESPOST. These stamps commemorate the life of Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin (1838-1917) and his gentle giants, the zeppelins. The stamps are in full color. They were issued in 1992. It is a pair of connected, mint stamps. We have two pairs of them. They are priced at $15.00 per pair or $25.00 for both.  

 

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21-157 SPECIAL DISPLAY CARD - GRAF ZEPPELIN POSTAGE STAMP - GERMANY. This is a most interesting display card which shows the Zeppelin LZ 4 over Mannheim on 4 August 1908. It has a postage stamp showing Ferdinand Graf Zeppelin and one of his zeppelins. It also proclaims that the stamp was issued by the Deutsche Luftpost and cost 3 Reichs Marks. This stamp may come from the Third Reich era. I believe Marks in Germany after 1945 were referred to as Deutsche Marks (D-Marks). The card measures 4 1/4" x 6," while the stamp itself measures 1" x 1 1/4." This collector’s card is serial numbered on the reverse. $30.00  

 

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21-158 SPECIAL DISPLAY CARD - GRAF ZEPPELIN (LZ-127) POSTAGE STAMP - NIGER. This is an interesting display card showing the Graf Zeppelin (LZ-127) flying over a mountain. The large-format postage stamp measures 4 1/8" x 5." It is for 500 Francs from the République du Niger. The stamp has a special cancellation, dated 1976. The display card measures 1 1/2" x 2 1/2." It shows the many cities the Graf Zeppelin visited on her world voyages. Included are Rio de Janeiro, Cairo, London, Séville, Spain, Rome, Berlin, New York, and Tokyo. $25.00  

 

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21-159 SPECIAL DISPLAY CARD - FOUR POSTAGE STAMP PLATE - INTERNATIONAL AVIATION - NORWAY. This is an attractive display card showing four different aviation scenes. Each of the four stamps measures 1 1/4" x 1 1/2." The stamps are for 1.25 Kroner, 2.00 Kroner, 2.80 Kroner, and 4.00 Kroner from Norway. The display card measures 3 3/4" x 4 1/2." It was issued for a special philatic display that took place in Oslo, Norway, 13-22 June 1980. Sets like this are quite popular with stamp collectors. They were never sold for use on everyday mail. $20.00  

 

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21-160 PAIR POSTAGE STAMPS - EARLY AIRSHIP - SWITZERLAND. This is a lovely pair of postage stamps showing an early style airship. Each stamp measures 1" x 1 1/2," and is for .90 Swiss Francs from Switzerland. The stamp has a special cancellation, dated 1980. This was done especially for stamp collectors. The stamps are mounted on a piece of paper. Both the stamps and the paper have been cancelled. It is a very attractive piece. $15.00  

 

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21-161 POSTAGE STAMP - GRAF ZEPPELIN AND EARLY ZEPPELIN - 75th ANNIVERSARY FIRST ZEPPELIN FLIGHT(1902-1977) - GRENADA. This is a postage stamp showing Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin and his first zeppelin, which flew in 1902. This postage stamp from Grenada celebrates the 75th anniversary of the first zeppelin flight. The stamp, which has not been cancelled, is for ½ Cent. $5.00  

 

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21-162 THREE POSTAGE STAMP SET - 75th ANNIVERSARY OF FIRST ZEPPELIN FLIGHT(1902-1977) - NICARAGUA. This is a set of three postage stamps from Nicaragua, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the first zeppelin flight. The first stamp, which as a value of one cent, shows a zeppelin in its hanger. The second stamp has a value of two cents, and shows the Graf Zeppelin in the sky. The third and final stamp has a value of three cents, and shows a very early airship. $20.00  

 

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21-175 THREE-STAMP SET - ZEPPELINS - REPUBLIC OF MALAGASY. This three-stamp set, while similar to the set listed above, displays different scenes. The denominations also are different. These large-format stamps each show a zeppelin in flight, along with a small, inset depiction of Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin. One zeppelin flies over New York, another over South America, and the third over Tokyo.) The three represent different denominations. All were cancelled in the 1970's. $25.00  

 

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21-176 THREE-STAMP SET - ZEPPELINS - REPUBLIC OF VOLTA. This series of three, large-format postage stamps, each measuring 1 1/2" x 2 1/2," comes from the Republic of Volta. They are quite colorful and show detailed images of the zeppelins on their various cruises. Especially noteworthy is the stamp that shows the LZ 129 (Hindenburg) displaying the 1936 Berlin Olympics Rings on her side. Another shows an outstanding view of the Graf Zeppelin flying right at you. The stamps all show different scenes. They are of three different denominations. $25.00  

 

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21-177 SINGLE STAMP - ZEPPELIN - REPUBLIC OF EQUATORIAL GUINEA. This is a special commemorative stamp that was issued in 1974. It shows a zeppelin on the ground, with passengers embarking on a flight. The stamp was also issued to celebrate the 100th anniversary (1874-1974) of the Universal Postal Union. The postage stamp has been cancelled in the corner.  $10.00  

 

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21-178 SINGLE POSTAGE STAMP - GRAF ZEPPELIN - GAMBIA. This colorful postage stamp from Gambia commemorates the anniversary of air services to Africa (1934-1969). It shows the Graf Zeppelin flying over an African map. The stamp also shows Lufthansa’s logo. The stamp is mint. It measures 1 1/4" x 2." $10.00   

 

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21-179 FOUR-STAMP SET - EARLY AVIATION - HUNGARY. This is a special edition of four connected stamps that were all cancelled for use by a stamp collector. The stamps were issued by Hungary and postmarked Budapest. Each of the four scenes shows a different time in aviation history. $15.00  

 

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21-180 TWO POSTAGE STAMPS - EARLY AIR MAIL AIRPLANE - LIECHTENSTEIN. This is a two-stamp set from the tiny country of Liechtenstein. They commemorate the first Air Mail Service out from Liechtenstein (God knows, they certainly did not need air mail service within Liechtenstein)! This took place in 1930 (the U. S.’s Air Mail Service began about 1918). The 1979 stamp commemorates the fact. The two stamps are identical in denomination. They only differ in that one bears a cancellation, and the other is mint. $10.00  

 

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21-182 SPECIAL EDITION STAMP HONORING LZ-127 - REPUBLIC CONGO. This is a special stamp issued for stamp collectors. It features a large color image of the LZ-127, attached to a special card. It comes from the Republic of the Congo. $20.00  

 

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21-183 BLOCK FOUR AVIATION-RELATED POSTAGE STAMPS - HUNGARY. This is a block of four aviation-related postage stamps from Hungary. Each is different. All were issued for stamp collectors in honor of the VII. Postal Congress held in Budapest in 1967. $15.00  

 

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21-184 SPECIAL EDITION - STAMPS HONORING THREE AVIATION PIONEERS - WEST GERMANY. This is a special group of three stamps issued for stamp collectors. It was offered in 1977 at a Berlin postal convention. It features stories of three aviation pioneers: Graf von Zeppelin, Hermann Oberth, and Hans Grade. They are attached to a special card. $20.00  

 

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21-185 BLOCK TWENTY POSTAGE STAMPS - GRAF ZEPPELIN - 1931 FLIGHT - LIECHTENSTEIN. This is a block of twenty, mint-condition, 1979, Liechtenstein, postage stamps. The stamps honor the Graf Zeppelin’s flight over the tiny principality in 1931. This set of stamps was produced specially for postage stamp collectors. $30.00  

 

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21-186 BLOCK TWENTY POSTAGE STAMPS - EARLY AVIATION - LIECHTENSTEIN. This is a block of twenty mint-condition postage stamps from 1979 in Liechtenstein. The stamps honor early aviation in that country. This set of stamps was produced specially for postage stamp collectors. $25.00  

 

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21-187 SET - FIVE AVIATION POSTAGE STAMPS - 1978 LUFTPOSTAUSSTELLUNG - STUTTGART. This set of five postage stamps comes from the 1978 Luftpostausstellung Stuttgart. Four postage stamps celebrate early German aviation. They are in four different denominations. The largest is for the Graf Zeppelin. All have been hand canceled in Berlin for collectors. The grouping’s fifth piece is a special stamp on a card with the name Luftpostausstellung Stuttgart from 1978. It displays a stamp commemorating aviation in Germany. It is a very handsome set. $35.00 

 

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21-188 SET - FIVE POSTAGE STAMPS - ZEPPELINS - SOVIET UNION. This is a set of five postage stamps from the former Soviet Union (USSR/CCCP). The stamps commemorate airships. The Graf Zeppelin is among the stamps. The stamps have different subjects and different denominations. $25.00 

 

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21-189 EARLY AIRSHIP POSTAGE STAMP - LIBERIA. This is a single postage stamp from Liberia. It shows an early airship from 1908, with a U.S. flag on it. It is hand canceled in the margin. It is a very colorful stamp. $10.00 

 

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21-190 SET - FIVE STAMPS - EARLY AVIATION - GRAF ZEPPELIN - MALDIVE ISLANDS. This is a set of five postage stamps that come from the Maldive Islands (also known as the Falkland Islands). These stamps, which are all different and of different denominations, commemorate aviation. Two of the stamps commemorate the ZL-130, the Graf Zeppelin II. They are both complete, with swastikas on the airships’ rudders. $20.00 

 

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21-191 SET - THREE ZEPPELIN-RELATED POSTAGE STAMPS - HUNGARY. This is a set of four postage stamps from Hungary. They commemorate Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin (1838-1917) and Hugo Eckner (1868-1954). Their zeppelins appear with them. $15.00 

 

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21-47 XLL ZEPPELIN CIGARETTE CASE. This is a very high-quality cigarette case that has a full-sized Commemorative Airship Badge on the front. Also on the front of the case are the initials "HS," engraved in the upper left corner. There are some designs engraved into the exterior of the cigarette case. On the catch the case is marked Alpaca, which denotes that the makeup of the case is essentially nickel(German silver). Both elastic keepers in the interior of the case are present. The case has a nice patina to it. Overall, it is in fine condition. $1,050.00 Reduced to $950.00!!

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21-104 XRB PENNANT - LZ-129 HINDENBURG 1936. This is a consignment piece. As was the case in most places where zeppelins flew, a huge and intense enthusiasm for these gentle giants of the air existed here in the USA. Both the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg called regularly at the U.S. Naval Air Station in Lakehurst, New Jersey and in Los Angeles, California. The zeppelins had their greatest exposure at Lakehurst, as it was an excellent stopping-point on the trans-Atlantic flight either to or from Germany. Lakehurst was a good stopover not only for east/west voyages, but for the north/south routes that took the zeppelins to and from South America.
This pennant is similar in shape and design to what is still used in sporting events in the U.S. Anybody who has been to a major college or professional football, baseball, or basketball game will recognize this shape immediately. It is triangle-shaped and measures 28 1/4" x 10 3/4." Its background is gray. Printed on it in white is a full, side view of the LZ-129 (the Hindenburg), the year 1936, and Lakehurst, N.J. The pennant is in very fine condition. $450.00  

 

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21-106 XRB PENNANT - LZ-127 GRAF ZEPPELIN. This is a consignment piece. As was the case in most places where zeppelins flew, a huge and intense enthusiasm for these gentle giants of the air existed here in the USA. Both the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg called regularly at the U.S. Naval Air Station in Lakehurst, New Jersey and in Los Angeles, California. The zeppelins had their greatest exposure at Lakehurst, as it was an excellent stopping-point on the trans-Atlantic flight either to or from Germany. Lakehurst was a good stopover not only for east/west voyages, but for the north/south routes that took the zeppelins to and from South America.  This pennant is similar in shape and design to what is still used in sporting events in the U.S. Anybody who has been to a major college or professional football, baseball, or basketball game will recognize this shape immediately. It is triangle-shaped and measures 28 1/4" x 10 3/4." The background of the pennant is a faded red. This example is a good bit older than the others we are offering for the 1936 and 1937 Hindenburg. While the two from 1936 and 1937 show a swastika on the rudder (as zeppelins did after the Nazi Party came to power), this example predates the rise of the Nazism. Its rudder is unadorned. The pennant is adorned with a zeppelin bearing the name "Graf Zeppelin." The name "Graf Zeppelin" appears again beneath it, as does Lakehurst, N.J. This pennant is identical in design and layout to the others but shows a bit more wear. $295.00  

 

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21-107 XRB PENNANT - U. S. NAVY AIRSHIP LOS ANGELES. This is a consignment piece. As was the case in most places where zeppelins flew, a huge and intense enthusiasm for these gentle giants of the air existed here in the USA. After the end of WW I, as a part of Germany’s war reparations, the Zeppelin Factory built and turned one zeppelin over to the U.S. Navy. This airship was the U. S. S. Los Angeles. The building of this zeppelin in 1924 helped the Zeppelin Factory, under the direction of Dr. Hugo Eckner, maintain its existence. After this was built, the Zeppelin Factory built the LZ-127 Graf Zeppelin and the LZ-129 Hindenburg. The U. S. S. Los Angeles served from 1924 when it was received from the Germans, until 30 June 1932, when she was decommissioned.  This pennant is similar in shape and design to what is still used in sporting events in the U.S. Anybody who has been to a major college or professional football, baseball, or basketball game will recognize this shape immediately. It is triangle-shaped and measures 28 1/4" x 10 3/4." The pennant is red in color and embossed in white with "U. S. S. Los Angeles." It displays a side view of the zeppelin with "U. S. Navy" and a star on it. At the bottom are the words "Lakehurst N.J.," where the U. S. S. Los Angeles was based. It is also the site of the Hindenburg’s 1937 crash. $175.00  

 

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11-415 COMMEMORATIVE NAVY AIRSHIP BADGE - MINIATURE. This is a miniature of the Commemorative Navy Airship Badge. The badge has amazing detail for its size. It is in excellent condition. $450.00 

 

 

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21-110 GILT COMMEMORATIVE NAVY AIRSHIP BADGE STICKPIN. This is a consignment piece. A very high-quality miniature was mounted onto a pin. This was then used by a veteran. This is gilt on silver. Its superiority and attention to detail are quite striking for such a small item. As is correct for a full-sized Commemorative Navy Airship Badge, it sports a Hohenzollern Crown. This example is quite unusual due to its gilt finish. While all other naval flight badges were gilt-toned, the Navy Commemorative Airship Badge was silver like its Army counterpart. A half moon and crown, along with the silver content (.800) are marked on the reverse. It is a lovely miniature. $325.00

 

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21-17 ZEPPELIN OCTAGONAL BRONZE MEDALLION. This medallion is identical to the example described above, with the exception that the ribbon is white and red, and the medallion is bronze. A safety pin is also present to attach the medallion to garment. Very attractive condition. $250.00 .

 


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21-12 AIRSHIP HINDENBURG/AMERICAN AIRLINES METAL PLAQUE. This is a REPRODUCTION of a period metal plaque which portrays the Airship Hindenburg and an American Airlines DC-3. American Airlines had connecting service with the Hindenburg, which enabled passengers to travel on to Europe. This plaque was manufactured in the 1990's and is NOT an original piece. $125.00.

 

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14-103 DEUTSCHE LUFTFAHRER ZEITSCHRIFT. This was a magazine that was published in Germany before WW I which dealt with Zeppelins. It is a large format magazine that has numerous articles about Zeppelins and their development in Germany during this period. There are numerous photos and there is also a great deal of advertising that I find very interesting. Some of the advertising includes motors from Mercedes-Benz, aircraft and flying lessons from Ago, etc. These magazines are professionally done very slick and would be a unique addition to a Zeppelin collection. I have two different issues which are December 1912 and April 1914. Each magazine is $60.00

 

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21-15 ZEPPELINS AGAINST LONDON by KENNETH POOLMAN. This is a U.S. 1st edition of this book, which was originally published in London. This edition was published in 1961 and is long out of print. The book, which is liberally illustrated, deals with the German "Blitz" of WW I. This was carried out by zeppelins instead of the fixed wing aircraft and rockets used during WW II. Much consternation was stirred up in England when the zeppelin attacks began. This book chronicles both the German raids and the English efforts to defeat them. The books makes excellent reading for those with an interest in zeppelins. It is in excellent condition with no dust jacket. The book is seldom seen. This copy comes directly from my library. $90.00 . . .

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21-243 ZEPPELIN DINNERWARE - EGG CUP. Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. You may have seen variations on Zeppelin tableware in the past, but this is even more unusual. This is an egg cup (commonly used today in Germany, as Germans still enjoy soft-boiled eggs!). The cup measures 2" in height, 2" in diameter, and 1 ½" in diameter at its base. The cup’s exterior displays "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei" circling a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. Now, here is where it differs from the ordinary. On its opposite side is a blue oval, enclosing the gold initials "WB." Bavarian Heinrich and Company’s hallmark appears on the cup’s bottom. They produced the Zeppelin Company’s tableware. Certain important families who frequently flew by zeppelin had their own tableware, which was reserved for their exclusive onboard use. We were told this set belonged to Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin’s daughter, Helene (Hella) von Zeppelin (1879–1967) who married Alexander Graf von Brandenstein-Zeppelin (1881–1949) in 1909. I am told they had a financial interest in the company after Graf von Zeppelin’s death in 1914 (she was his only child). $895.00TA

 

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21-244 ZEPPELIN DINNERWARE SALAD PLATE. Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations on Zeppelin tableware in the past, but this is even more unusual. Today we are offering you a salad plate. The plate measures 8" in diameter. It displays a wide gold trim band encircling a narrow blue band. Further within it is another very narrow gold trim band. On the plate’s bottom the words "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei" circle a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. Now, here is where it differs from the ordinary. On its opposite side is a blue oval, enclosing the gold initials "WB." Bavarian Heinrich and Company’s hallmark appears on the cup’s bottom. They produced the Zeppelin Company’s tableware.
We were told this set belonged to Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin’s daughter, Helene (Hella) von Zeppelin (1879–1967) who married Alexander Graf von Brandenstein-Zeppelin (1881–1949) in 1909. I am told they had a financial interest in the company after Graf von Zeppelin’s death in 1914 (she was his only child).
$1,250.00TA

 

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21-245 ZEPPELIN DINNERWARE BREAD PLATE. Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations on Zeppelin tableware in the past, but this is even more unusual. Today we are offering you a salad plate. The plate measures 6 1/4" in diameter. It displays a wide gold trim band encircling a narrow blue band. Further within it is another very narrow gold trim band. On the plate’s bottom the words "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei" circle a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. Now, here is where it differs from the ordinary. On its opposite side is a blue oval, enclosing the gold initials "WB." Bavarian Heinrich and Company’s hallmark appears on the cup’s bottom. They produced the Zeppelin Company’s tableware.
We were told this set belonged to Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin’s daughter, Helene (Hella) von Zeppelin (1879–1967) who married Alexander Graf von Brandenstein-Zeppelin (1881–1949) in 1909. I am told they had a financial interest in the company after Graf von Zeppelin’s death in 1914 (she was his only child).
$1,095.00TA

 

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21-246 ZEPPELIN DINNERWARE BREAD PLATE. Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations on Zeppelin tableware in the past, but this is even more unusual. Today we are offering you a salad plate. The plate measures 6 1/4" in diameter. It displays a wide gold trim band encircling a narrow blue band. Further within it is another very narrow gold trim band. On the plate’s bottom the words "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei" circle a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. Now, here is where it differs from the ordinary. On its opposite side is a blue oval, enclosing the gold initials "WB." Bavarian Heinrich and Company’s hallmark appears on the cup’s bottom. They produced the Zeppelin Company’s tableware.
We were told this set belonged to Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin’s daughter, Helene (Hella) von Zeppelin (1879–1967) who married Alexander Graf von Brandenstein-Zeppelin (1881–1949) in 1909. I am told they had a financial interest in the company after Graf von Zeppelin’s death in 1914 (she was his only child).
$1,095.00TA

 

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21-02 ZEPPELIN CIGARETTE CARD ALBUM VOLUME 1. The Zeppelin cigarette card albums were among the most popular of all of the cigarette card albums produced in the 1930's. These cards were included with packs of cigarettes as a premium. Those who wanted the entire series at once could get a complete album. This is volume 1 of the three volume series. It has 265 cards that show various scenes of zeppelin flight and history. Volume 1 features pre-WW I and WW I zeppelin scenes and information. It also is very heavy on the first commercial post-WW I Airship, the Graf Zeppelin. We have two of these remaining. One is complete but has a bit of water-staining on the cover that is $175.00. The other album has FIVE  missing (the missing cards are numbers 19, 72,163, 172, and 218) cards and is offered for $125.00

 

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21-216 ZEPPELIN DINNER PLATE. Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations of this in the past that was used by passengers aboard the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. Today we are offering you a dinner plate. The plate measures 10" in diameter. It displays a wide gold trim band. Inside of that is a narrow blue band. Further within it is another very narrow gold trim band. On the bottom of the plate the words "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei" circle a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. This is where the plate gets different. At the top is a blue oval and inside of which are the letters "WB." Why is this different from the conventional plates? Certain important people or families had their own tableware which they used during zeppelin voyages. A daughter of Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin married into a family whose last name ended in "B." I do not have a lead on the family’s name. This family may or may not have had a financial interest in the company. On the reverse is hallmarking for Heinrich and Company in Bavaria, who produced the tableware for the Zeppelin Company. The plate’s condition is excellent. $1,395.00TA

 

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21-217 ZEPPELIN DINNER PLATE. Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations of this in the past that was used by passengers aboard the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. Today we are offering you a dinner plate. The plate measures 10" in diameter. It displays a wide gold trim band. Inside of that is a narrow blue band. Further within it is another very narrow gold trim band. On the bottom of the plate the words "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei" circle a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. This is where the plate gets different. At the top is a blue oval and inside of which are the letters "WB." Why is this different from the conventional plates? Certain important people or families had their own tableware which they used during zeppelin voyages. A daughter of Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin married into a family whose last name ended in "B." I do not have a lead on the family’s name. This family may or may not have had a financial interest in the company. On the reverse is hallmarking for Heinrich and Company in Bavaria, who produced the tableware for the Zeppelin Company. The plate’s condition is excellent. $1,395.00TA

 

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21-218 ZEPPELIN SOUP BOWL. Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations of this in the past that was used by passengers aboard the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. Today we are offering you a soup bowl. The soup bowl measures 9 3/4" in diameter. It also measures 1 1/2" deep. It displays a wide gold trim band. Inside of that is a narrow blue band. Further within it is another very narrow gold trim band. On the bottom of the soup bowl the words "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei" circle a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. This is where the soup bowl gets different. At the top is a blue oval and inside of which are the letters "WB." Why is this different from the conventional plates? Certain important people or families had their own tableware which they used during zeppelin voyages. A daughter of Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin married into a family whose last name ended in "B." I do not have a lead on the family’s name. This family may or may not have had a financial interest in the company. On the reverse is hallmarking for Heinrich and Company in Bavaria, who produced the tableware for the Zeppelin Company. The bowl’s condition is excellent. $1,395.00TA

 

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21-219 ZEPPELIN SALAD PLATE. Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations of this in the past that was used by passengers aboard the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. Today we are offering you a salad plate. The plate measures 8" in diameter. It displays a wide gold trim band. Inside of that is a narrow blue band. Further within it is another very narrow gold trim band. On the bottom of the plate the words "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei" circle a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. This is where the plate gets different. At the top is a blue oval and inside of which are the letters "WB." Why is this different from the conventional plates? Certain important people or families had their own tableware which they used during zeppelin voyages. A daughter of Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin married into a family whose last name ended in "B." I do not have a lead on the family’s name. This family may or may not have had a financial interest in the company. On the reverse is hallmarking for Heinrich and Company in Bavaria, who produced the tableware for the Zeppelin Company. The plate’s condition is excellent. $1,250.00TA

 

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21-220 ZEPPELIN SALAD PLATE. Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations of this in the past that was used by passengers aboard the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. Today we are offering you a salad plate. The plate measures 8" in diameter. It displays a wide gold trim band. Inside of that is a narrow blue band. Further within it is another very narrow gold trim band. On the bottom of the plate the words "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei" circle a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. This is where the plate gets different. At the top is a blue oval and inside of which are the letters "WB." Why is this different from the conventional plates? Certain important people or families had their own tableware which they used during zeppelin voyages. A daughter of Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin married into a family whose last name ended in "B." I do not have a lead on the family’s name. This family may or may not have had a financial interest in the company. On the reverse is hallmarking for Heinrich and Company in Bavaria, who produced the tableware for the Zeppelin Company. A couple of small sections of the blue band have what I term some scuffing or wear. We have reduced the price of the plate to allow for that small fault. $1,150.00TA

 

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21-221 ZEPPELIN BREAD PLATE. Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations of this in the past that was used by passengers aboard the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. Today we are offering you a bread plate. The plate measures 6 1/4" in diameter. It displays a wide gold trim band. Inside of that is a narrow blue band. Further within it is another very narrow gold trim band. On the bottom of the plate the words "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei" circle a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. This is where the plate gets different. At the top is a blue oval and inside of which are the letters "WB." Why is this different from the conventional plates? Certain important people or families had their own tableware which they used during zeppelin voyages. A daughter of Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin married into a family whose last name ended in "B." I do not have a lead on the family’s name. This family may or may not have had a financial interest in the company. On the reverse is hallmarking for Heinrich and Company in Bavaria, who produced the tableware for the Zeppelin Company. A small chip appears on the edge. It is more visible from the bottom of the plate than from the top. We have reduced the price of the plate to allow for that small fault. $1,095.00TA

 

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21-225 ZEPPELIN SALAD PLATE.  Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations of this in the past used by the passengers aboard the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. Today we are offering you a handsome salad plate. The salad plate is elegant with a wide gold trim band around the rim. Immediately below that is a narrower blue trim band. The plate measures 8" in diameter. On the exterior of the salad plate we see "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei," which circles a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. Now, here is where it differs from what we generally see. On its opposite side is a blue oval, and in gold we see the initials "WB." Certain important families who flew often on zeppelins had their own tableware, which was used only by them when aboard a zeppelin. A daughter of Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin married into a family whose last name ended in "B." I do not have a firm lead on the family name, but I was told that they had a financial interest in the Zeppelin Company. On the salad plate’s bottom, we see hallmarking for Heinrich and Company in Bavaria, who produced the tableware for the Zeppelin Company. The salad plate is in superb condition. $1,250.00TA

 

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21-226 ZEPPELIN SERVING BOWL. Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations of this in the past used by the passengers aboard the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. Today we are offering you a magnificent square serving bowl. The serving bowl is striking, with a wide, gold, trim band at the rim. Immediately below that is a narrower blue trim band. The serving bowl measures 8" x 8." It also stands 2" tall. In the bowl’s bottom we see "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei," which circles a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. Now, here is where it differs from what we generally see. On its opposite side is a blue oval, and in gold we see the initials "WB." Certain important families who flew often on zeppelins had their own tableware, which was used only by them when aboard a zeppelin. A daughter of Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin married into a family whose last name ended in "B." I do not have a firm lead on the family name, but I was told that they had a financial interest in the Zeppelin Company. On the serving bowl’s bottom, we see hallmarking for Heinrich and Company in Bavaria, who produced the tableware for the Zeppelin Company. The serving bowl is in superb condition. $1,495.00TA

 

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21-227 ZEPPELIN COFFEE CUP & SAUCER.  Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations of this in the past used by the passengers aboard the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. Today we are offering you a glorious coffee cup and saucer. The cup is elegant, with a wide, gold, trim band at the rim. Immediately below that is a narrower blue trim band. In the cup’s bowl we see "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei," which circles a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. Now, here is where it differs from what we generally see. On its opposite side is a blue oval, and in gold we see the initials "WB." On the cup’s bottom, we see hallmarking for Heinrich and Company in Bavaria, who produced the tableware for the Zeppelin Company. The saucer measures 6" in diameter. It has the same gold and blue trim and previously noted imprinting on the obverse as the cup. This also follows for the reverse, with the manufacturer’s hallmarking. Certain important families who flew often on zeppelins had their own tableware, which was used only by them when aboard a zeppelin. A daughter of Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin married into a family whose last name ended in "B." I do not have a firm lead on the family name, but I was told that they had a financial interest in the Zeppelin Company. Both the cup and saucer are in excellent condition. $1,695.00TA

 

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21-228 ZEPPELIN EGG CUP.  Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations of this in the past used by the passengers aboard the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. Today we are offering you a marvelous egg cup. [From my travels to Germany I can tell you that even today Germans enjoy soft-boiled eggs with their breakfast. At our hotels’ breakfast buffets, we always see soft-boiled eggs and small egg cups to accommodate them]. The cup is elegant, with a wide, gold, trim band at the rim. Immediately below that is a narrower blue trim band. The cup measures 2" in height, 2" in diameter, and 1 1/2" in diameter at its base. On the cup’s exterior we see "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei," which circles a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. Now, here is where it differs from what we generally see. On its opposite side is a blue oval, and in gold we see the initials "WB." On the cup’s bottom, we see hallmarking for Heinrich and Company in Bavaria, who produced the tableware for the Zeppelin Company. Certain important families who flew often on zeppelins had their own tableware, which was used only by them when aboard a zeppelin. A daughter of Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin married into a family whose last name ended in "B." I do not have a firm lead on the family name, but I was told that they had a financial interest in the Zeppelin Company. The egg cup is in superb condition. $895.00TA

 

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21-229 ZEPPELIN EGG CUP.  Zeppelin tableware is very prized among collectors. Today we have something quite unusual to offer you. You may have seen variations of this in the past used by the passengers aboard the Graf Zeppelin and the Hindenburg. Today we are offering you a marvelous egg cup. [From my travels to Germany I can tell you that even today Germans enjoy soft-boiled eggs with their breakfast. At our hotels’ breakfast buffets, we always see soft-boiled eggs and small egg cups to accommodate them]. The cup is elegant, with a wide, gold, trim band at the rim. Immediately below that is a narrower blue trim band. The cup measures 2" in height, 2" in diameter, and 1 1/2" in diameter at its base. On the cup’s exterior we see "Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei," which circles a globe. Inside the globe is a zeppelin. Now, here is where it differs from what we generally see. On its opposite side is a blue oval, and in gold we see the initials "WB." On the cup’s bottom, we see hallmarking for Heinrich and Company in Bavaria, who produced the tableware for the Zeppelin Company. Certain important families who flew often on zeppelins had their own tableware, which was used only by them when aboard a zeppelin. A daughter of Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin married into a family whose last name ended in "B." I do not have a firm lead on the family name, but I was told that they had a financial interest in the Zeppelin Company. The egg cup is in superb condition. $895.00TA

 

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