DESCRIPTION: Still the absolute “Holy Grail’” of the SS collectors, the Honor Ring of the SS stands as the ultimate collectible and for some it has even deeper meaning than that! It took on a mythos of its own! At least two books have been produced, chronicling facts and pictures that pertain to these rings. To the SS of old and to the collector of today, the rings have great significance and are even more important than the daggers or the swords. The ring emerges as the singularly most coveted and prized of all the SS trappings and awards then and now! The formal award of the ring was only under approval of the Reichsfuhrer SS Heinrich Himmler and in this capacity he practically had to know every applicant to be issued one. By the way, this was the only truly issued ring of the N.S. apparatus; all other rings of the Party, Wehrmacht and SS were purchased by the wearer. The only exception being the Victory rings produced by Herr Franz Schnell of Halle am Salle, but as far as we know, those rings were to be issued but never actually reached that point due to the unfortunate outcome of the war.   Once again, Germania International has located and now presents another fine Honor ring. 100% original with authentication document issued by Mr. Don Boyle, the author of the first and best book on the subject, “SS Totenkopf H. Himmler Honor Ring 1933-1945." We show a picture of this Boyle certification in our images. Also there is an incredible accumulation of papers copied out of official U.S. Archives concerning this SS officer. The former owner was SS Standartenfuhrer Dr. Ehrhardt Hamann whose SS number was 351 382.  Among this stack of official documents are at least 3 pictures of Doctor Hamann and three of his wife, Erika Richter Hamann. Also included is the questionnaire from the Race and Resettlement Office (Rasse und Siedlungsampt Fragebogen) and a complete Lebenslauf (his and her personal histories handwritten). The SS Ahenentafel completed is also all there giving every detail of his and her existence and ancestry. There is a letter from the office of the Reichsfuhrer SS Himmler with approval.

The papers show that Hamann was born Jan 13, 1900 in Halle-Salle. There are also official papers concerning Erika Richter, the name of his wife before their marriage, with her “Lebenlauf” and Ahnentafel; it shows her as being in the HJ Madelshaft in 1940. There is also another SS approval from the Reichsfuhrer SS Himmler. The Rasse und Siedlungsampt papers are complete and approved. All of the separate groupings of papers have the stamp stating copy from the National Archives and records administration. There is an official letter among the documents from the “Mutterdienst” (Mother's service) to Frau Hamann. Also seen is a letter to the Rasse und Siedlungsampt from Dr. Hamann on official N.S Party stationary. He signs it Dr. Hamann Gauarztefuhrer and SS Standartenfuhrer. Gauarztefuhrer is a term meaning Medical Director for the Gau (district), so we know he was a high official in the medical arts. We also find a note by Dr. Ehardt Hamann to the effect that someone committed suicide (Selbmord). At some point the report was dated January 23, 1943. There are other official letters from Doctor of Medicine, E. Hammon. Many, many letters between the Doctor and the Race and Resettlement Office concerning certifications, etc. Many such letters and correspondence. Signifying that he worked closely with that official office. There is an SS officer file that shows his awards, religion, family history, assignments. And other sections of the NS administrative apparatus, dates of service and honors received. And here is what every collector likes to see—in one block it shows that he received the “Totenkopf ring” and that his Beruf (Specialty) was as Doctor of Medicine. It also shows he won the Social Service Medal, the Sudetenland Medal and Service Medal of the NSDAP in bronze and an Alte-kampfer "Old fighters" abzeichen. There is an order from the personal staff of the Reichsfuhrer ordering him to Norway to assist the famous Brigadefuhrer Dr. Conti and there is a letter from Dr. L. Conti confirming this. A letter is also here promoting him to SS Standartenfuhrer on 11 March 1940 and a congratulatory letter from the Oberabschnittes Elbe. One of the letters is from Reinhard Heydrich, the Chief of the Reichsicherheitspolizei, and it makes mention that Hamann was a Party Member since 1929 and has been a leader in the fervent work and struggle in German Health practice. Letters from the Oberabschnitt Elbe and from the Police President and the Gauleiter in Halle. Much too numerous for complete listing -- 103 pages from the archives and then a professionally assembled bound supplemental documentation booklet prepared by Ross J. Kelbaugh of the historical graphic research service in Baltimore, MD.

This grouping has explanations of the records of the National Archives. Here also is the SS Dienstaltersliste Der Schutzstaffel Der NSDAP Berlin 1942. Here listed are the names of the SS officiers -- Obergruppenfuhrer to SS Standartenfuhrer up to 1942. This gives the name, SS section, Party number ,birth date and rank plus the times and places where he was promoted. Two copies are included showing Dr. Hamann’s records before he received the ring and another where it shows he received it and also the Iron Cross 1st Class and that he was assigned to the staff  HQ XVIII and was promoted to SS Standartenfuhrer January 30, 1940. Enclosed here are the pictures of Dr. Hamann and his wife Erika. So here is provenance far beyond what is normally associated with any of these rings when rarely found. It is one of the best? (We think) What do you think? Along with it, as we have stated, is the positive certification of Mr. Don Boyle.

The ring is unusually huge, measuring a 16 inch size. We have never seen one this big. It is quite worn as so many of them were due to everyday wear -- to some collectors this is part of the fascination. They see something that we may not in a well worn ring (deep significance?). The skull is quite worn down but it is still there. The date inside the ring is the issue date of 30/7/36. Exactly four years later, 30/7/40, to the day he was promoted to SS Standartenfuhrer (significance?) Does anyone have any idea as to why? The sig runes to each side of the skull are also worn as are the oak leaves that emit from them to the sides of the skull but they are readily discernable. Right after that we see very heavy wear to the double runes and arrow looking rune and the swastika rune although the swastika rune is fully discernible. The Hagel rune is also there but very, very, worn. The inscription inside is clear but the center seam under the skull is almost impossible to perceive. However, Don Boyle very kindly taught us a trick or two. During manufacture the tolerances were so very tight on these rings that now and then one comes along that it seems impossible to see the seam. We have had two like this in the last two years. Don showed us that if you hold the ring in the flat of the palm of your hand you will be positively amazed to see the seam appear!  This was great to see and learn from the “Ring King Don Boyle.” He certainly knows his stuff! The seam on this ring is unmistakably visible with this process, we have here not only the genuine article, but a ring once owned and worn by a famed and important Doctor and highly regarded SS officer of high rank. I can’t imagine anyone doing better than to invest in this very significant historically important item. It is priced very reasonably as well.

PRICE: SOLD

Iron Chest from the Home of Reichsführer SS Heinrich Himmler (Item SS 35-3; AHN 5-6; HH 4-10)

DESCRIPTION: This chest is constructed from iron with a wooden interior. It is probably one of the finest pieces of Himmler-related items ever found. It was taken from the home of the Reichsführer SS at Gmund in Lake Tegernsee in 1945 by an American soldier (looter).  This was the same villa that the chair came from that we feature in the Himmler section of our site. The box is measured at 10" x 8" across the top and 3 ½" deep counting the feet.  The design is indicative of the work of the SS Ahnenerbe. (See our explanation of this Heritage Foundation as well on our pages. There is a wealth of information there.)  You can also put the word, ‘Ahnenerbe’ into Google and much more can be extrapolated. The words’ “Meine Ahnen” are to be seen in cut-out iron letters on the top of the chest -- this translates to My Ancestry; on the right side is a figure that represents the Irminsul with the “Sonnenrad” (sun symbol) behind it with Swastika  (It was the sacred symbol of the Saxons.) In the left lower section you can see a stylized SS symbol in a circle. The Ahnenerbe was the favored pet project of Heinrich Himmler and many gifts were bestowed upon him at his birthday, anniversaries and just about every time he would be visited by officials of the organization including, of course, SS Standartenführer Wolfram Sievers; he was the official chairman of the Kuratorium and he held the real power in the organization. The foundation had several (50) different departments all with various agendas. Expeditions to Tibet and other far flung places, Germanic music, excavations, medical department studies, having to do with nutrition and folk medicine, farming innovations, the social sciences as well as natural science were exhaustingly covered, studies of the Celtic and Nordic culture. One of the departments was for the study and recreation of Germanic art and it was here that they created items that were important to the Nordic mythos. Teutonic swords, and daggers shields, etc. Here also such items as this chest would be created using pagan and symbolic designs that would reflect the importance of ancestry and the dedication to the National Socialist principles and ideals. This brings us to the fact that this would have been the perfect gift for Himmler because for all intents and purposes it really says it all! On the front of the chest is an N.S. eagle and swastika of the style used in the earliest days of the N.S. movement (in the mid 20’s), this is also fashioned in iron. It is in keeping with all the rest of the design when one considers the full meaning of the gift. The stylized SS also has meaning in the fact that the Ahnenerbe was under the directorship of  the general secretary and SS Standartenführer, Seivers, who was keenly interest in the evolvement of the swastika and the SS symbolism from ancient times. The "S" was used on Teutonic war shields and weapons and under Siever's directives,various patterns of the usage of SS were used, so this rather different usage and design on the chest’s top is to be expected in an Ahnenerbe production. We are quite certain that this gift was actually from this much acclaimed academic group. When the GIs broke into the house in Gmund, on the shores of Tegernsee, this chest was taken along with many other items. Thinking that the box contained jewels or other precious objects, the looters couldn’t contain their lustful greed. There was a key sitting right in the lock but it would have had to be turned and then re-inserted in another hole beside it and turned again and the lock would have opened easily but since they were lusting heavily to open it, they never even noticed the second hole and since it would not open for them, they forced it open with a bayonet thereby destroying the lock. You can see in our picture the two lock entry points. This chest was kept in the Gmund residence in a closet and undoubtedly contained papers and/or microfilm having to do with the ancestry of the Reichsfuhrer. When the box was opened by the looters, there was consternation and great disappointment. The contents were stupidly thrown in a trash barrel by the GIs without a thought of their importance to history and the chest was carried away by the “grunts.” Carefully, so that the intelligence officers would not see it because if they had the chest would have been seized and the contents might have still been able to be rescued. There was strict orders that no looting was to be permitted, especially at this residence. So, that is the story as relayed to us by the son of the veteran who prefers to go unnamed. This is an exiting relic of the SS and of its leader. It also is very important in that it is from the Ahnenerbe and that is so crucial to the understanding of one of the admittedly positive aspect of the Third Reich. Obviously extremely rare and certainly a valuable relic of the Reich.

PRICE: $11,000.00

Large Silver Platter Presentation to Reinhard Heydrich 1934 (Item PER 4-11 & POL 3-3 & SS 35-4)

DESCRIPTION: This is absolutely the finest Heydrich piece ever made available for the historic implications are ‘stupendous’ and far reaching. The year 1934: until that year the Geheime-Staatspolizei (Secret State Police) was a private organization (Gemeinschaft) within the Department 1-A of the Prussian Sate Police.  It was established by Hermann Goring after Hitler gained power in 1933. In 1934, Goring under pressure from Heinrich Himmler agreed to grant control of this the aforementioned Dept 1-A to the SS. In 1936 Reinhard Heydrich became head of the Gestapo as it had by then been named in the transformation in 1934. In the course of the changeover to the more effective Gestapo, Heydrich had worked diligently with Heinrich Muller and others to modernize the units and bring them to speed as the most competent and efficient criminal investigative agency in the world. During World War II, the Gestapo was expanded to around 45,000 members. Prior to 1934, Reinhard Heydrich was the Police Chief of Bavaria and Head of the Sicherheitsdienst- SD from 1931 to 1942 and head of the Gestapo from 1934 to 1936. The writing engraved on this wonderful piece presented to Heydrich as SS Gruppenführer reads in grateful thanks for his leading talent in the beginning of our organization in 1934 and it is from his loyal police officers. Heydrich was an SS Gruppenführer, in 1934 he was promoted to this austere rank after the ‘Night of the Long Knives’ June 30, 1934. So it is obvious that this platter was given during the most crucial time of N.S. destiny. The men presenting it called themselves a Gemeinshaft (organization) because the presentation was obviously made during that time that the change was being accomplised from Department 1-A to Gestapo. The platter is huge and entirely crafted from genuine silver (835 grade) and so marked with the moon, crown, and eagle logo as required. The platter measures 18" x 13 ½" .  The edges are turned as fine German dining regulations demanded for elegant place settings. Below the eagle is the engraved statement ‘Meine Ehre Heisst Treue’ My Honor is Loyalty. The catch phrase of the SS and SS Police. These four words personify the SS organization and all of their agenda. It would be a real task to find something that is more historically important or more beautiful than this piece. The hand engraved eagle is the work of a master artist with each and every feather in minute detail. There were many eagles symbolizing various organizations within the Third Reich but none can compare with this special rendering for sheer glorious elegance. The engraving is so deep that you could slide your fingernail below each and every breast feather. This is National Socialist art personified !

PRICE: SOLD

DESCRIPTION: This is a particularly nice example of the sword of the officer candidate, or SS Unterfuhrer. It fits all the descriptions shown in the Tom Wittman book "Exploring the Dress Daggers and Swords of the German SS" (pages 396 - 417). The grip has no insignia as the officer's patterns is constructed. The upper cap portion has the raised runes. The lower scabbard drag is built into the scabbard shell and is not a separate component, as is the case with an officer sword. This is an early model as it is proofed (bears the Kulturzeichen). A further proof of being early is that like the 1936 chained dagger, there is no maker mark. In the early days, Himmler didn't wish to show company preference in his ordered examples of sword and daggers. Wittman shows an unmarked example on page 379 of his book. The sword is in excellent condition even though the blade could use some cleaning. It bears no rust, nicks or abrasions...only some spotting that will easily clean off. The type sword is becoming extremely scarce, especially in this condition.

PRICE: SOLD

“Utterly Spectacular” Presentation Chest to Hans-Adolf Prutzmann Obergruppenfuhrer (Item SS 35-8 & ART 16-12)

DESCRIPTION: Hans-Adolf Prutzmann -31 Aug 1901-21 May 1945 was a superior SS and police leader. As an SS Obergruppenfuhrer. He was the senior N.S. official administrator of Latvia. After completing his studies at the Gymnasium, Prutzmann studied agriculture, before he became a member of various Freikorps between 1918 and 1921. Despite being a member, he nevertheless avoided military and typical Freikorps-related aggressive situations. This however, changed in 1923, when he interrupted his studies to accompany a Freikorps involved in the Upper Silesian uprising. Afterwards he worked for seven years as an agricultural official in Pomerania, Brandenburg, and East Prussia. He joined the SA in 1929.  Since Prutzmann had become quite a radical soldier as a result of his Freikorps experiences, and since his own personal goals did not match the clearly milder thinking found in the SA, he left the organization in 1930 and transferred in the same year to the SS. At the same time, he was admitted to the Nazi Party. As of this point in time, Prutzmann’s career began a steep rise. While functioning as a Member of the Reichstag, he was appointed SS Brigadefuhrer in November 1933, and in February 1934 he was given the rank of SS Gruppenfuhrer. At the same time, Prutzmann was appointed leader of the SS Upper Division Southwest in Stuttgart.  From March 1937 until May 1941, Prutzmann led the SS Upper Division Northeast whose headquarters were in Konigsberg (now Kaliningrad).

By April 1941, Prutzmann had been appointed Generalleutnant (Lieutenant General) of the Police. From June until October 1941, he was Hoherer S.S. und Polizeifuhrer (Higher SS and Police Leader) of Russia-North, the post being responsible for internal security and combating the murderous red partisans. He held the same position in the Ukraine and Russia-South until the summer of 1944. He also commanded Kampfgruppe “Prutzmann” in the Ukraine during the early summer of 1944, and was awarded with the German Cross in Gold for his action. From June to November, 1941 Prutzmann held the post of higher SS and Police Leader.  Hoherer SS und Polizeifuhrer or HSSPF for Latvia; effectively this made him ruler or with Hinrich Lahse, co-ruler of Latvia. His office was moved to the Latvian office of the S.S. Sicherheitsdienst or security service as HSSPF Latvia. Prutzmann was in charge of the SD. It is known that Prutzmann was responsible for removing the Jews of Latvia into Ghettos. One of his last promotions came in September 1944 when Prutzmann was appointed by Heinrich Himmmer as Generalispekteur fur Spezialabwehr (General Inspector of Special Defense) and assigned the task of setting up the Werewolf force’s headquarters in Berlin and organizing and instructing the force. The Werewolves were volunteers that should have formed a nucleolus of resistance fighters. Prutzmann had studied the guerrilla tactics used by Russian partisans while stationed in the occupied territories of Ukraine and the idea was to teach these tactics to the member of Operation Werewolf. As originally conceived, the Werewolf units were intended to be legitimate uniformed military formations trained to engage in clandestine operations behind enemy lines in the same manner as Allied Special Forces such as Commandos. In early 1945, under orders from Himmler, he directed the assassination of the Allied-appointed mayor of Aachen, Franz Oppenhoff. Shortly before the war ended, Prutzman was captured by the Allies and became a prisoner of war. While in their custody, he ended his own life. Whether his suicide happened in Luneburg, or as another account has it, at an interrogation came at Diest in Belgium is not quite clear, but it seems certain that his date of death was 21 May 1945.

Dates of Ranks Earned:
SS-Strumfuhrer: 10 November 1930
SS-Sturmbannfuhrer 3 August 1931
SS-Standartenfuhrer 1 Janurary 1932
SS-Oberfuhrer 26 June 1933
SS-Brigadefuhrer 9 November 1933
SS-Grupenfuhrer 28 February 1934
SS-Oberguppenfuhrer und General der Polizei 9 November 1941
General der Waffen-SS July 1944

Notable Decorations:
1939 Iron Cross Second (1941) and First class(1943)
War Merit Cross Second (1940) and First Class with Swords(1943)
German Cross in Gold (1944)
Long Service Award of the NSDAP in Bronze  and silver
SS Long Service Award
SS-Honor ring
Honor Sword of the Reichsfuhrers-SS
Golden Party Badge
Eastern Front Medal (1942)
Hungarian Order of Merit Commander Cross with Star

This was the career of one of the highest placed SS officers of the 3rd Reich.  A German tragedy while he lived, he actually lived the words of the song - - -

Wenn alle untreue werden so bleiben wir doch Treue !

 The box or chest made of Prussian amber was presented to SS Gruppenfuhrer and N.S Senator Prutzmann by none other than the Gauleiter and Reichstatthalter Karl Kaufmann who was also famous in his own right. A Reichstatthalter is a Governor and Gauleiter would be the supreme Party Leader of a regional branch of the NSDAP (made up of many such districts.) Karl-Kaufmann (20 October 1900 – Dec 4 1969) was the NS Gauleiter in Hamburg. He was born in Krefeld.  He served as a war volunteer in WWI and in the Freikorp’s Brigade Ehrhardt 1919-1920.  He was a founding member of the NSDAP in 1921. He quickly became one of Adolf Hitler’s favorites. He was appointed Gauleiter of the Gau’s Rhineland and Ruhr in 1922-29, he then was appointed Gauleiter of Hamburg in 1929, a post that he would hold until 1945.  He was also a member of the German Reichstag.  After Hitler gained power on 16 May 1933 Kaufmann was appointed Reichstattthalter (Regional Governor of Hamburg with absolute power over 1.8 million people. One of his past accomplishments was to turn over control of the city’s Fuhlsbuttel Prison to the SA and SS where it became the nucleus of the Kila-fu concentration camp. Adolf Hitler declared Hamburg a fortress, similar to Festung Warshau. The cities of Posen or Kolberg.

In April 1945, Kaufman wanted to capitulate without further struggle. After negotiations and the publication of a pamphlet that Kaufmann prepared, suddenly (without Kaufmanns consent) - Hamburg was declared an open city by Admiral Karl Donitz. We mention this because it is ironic that Prutzman and Kaufmann were close associates and friends (This will be borne out when we describe the box.)  The amazing thing was that due to Kaufmann’s attempts at the Hitler forbidden capitulation he could possibly have been on Prutzmann's hit list kept by the short lived Werewolf units. He could have ended up like Franz Oppenhof the Mayor of Aachen who was assassinated by the order of SS Obergruppenfuhrer Prutzmann. But the fact remains that their friendship had seen happier days!  When in early May, 1941, Himmler appointed Prutzmann to HSSPF this was an extremely high office however he was never able to challenge (even if he wanted to) the power of the formidable Hamburg Reichsstatthalter and Gauleiter Karl Kaufmann.  So, he was content to work closely with him shoving further ambition aside for the good of the Third Reich. 

Now to the box. It has occurred to us after many years of historical study and observing the habits of the German leaders from Kaiser Wilhelm to the men who helped to administer N.S. Germany that when it came to giving gifts to colleagues, generally a painting or porcelain would be the choice; however, even more often a chest or box was the gift of choice especially if you were giving a gift to Hermann Goring (who had everything!). Why not give him a fancy box to keep some of it in? This was very often done. This box is no exception and what a box! There is probably no more sacred a substance to the German mythos than “Bernstein” (amber) exits. It was a sticky resin that oozed down the sides of trees when the earth was young. As geologic time progressed, the forests were buried and the resin hardened into a soft warm golden gem (petrified) known as amber or bernstein in German. Most of the world’s amber is in the range of 30-90 million years old. Bernstein means “stone of the bear.” The ancient and even modern Germanic people believed that having pieces of Bernstein near you not only gives you courage and great personal strength but would allow the warrior to teach others to build strength and stamina and to strengthen faith and discipline. The finest of this amber is the Prussian Bernstein. Unlike Baltic amber from Poland, it is clear and practically always clear of fossils and prehistoric bugs. So sacred was amber in the Third Reich that special editions of Hitler’s book Mein Kampf were presented to important officials with a cover decorated in small plainchants of pure Prussian Bernstein.  We produce a picture here showing such a book and you will note the similarity of the cover of the Kaufmann-Prutzmann box to the design of the Mein Kampf. The same silver party eagle is used and the pattern of the amber layout is quite similar.

The box measures across its top 5 ½ x 6 inches and is two inches deep.  Incredibly, it looks to be three tiered.  All the amber is 100% perfect. On the bottom is a small silver plaque that proclaims – Angefertigt in Den Werkstatten Der Stattlichen Beanstein Manufaktur Konigsberg Pr. This translates to: Manufactured in the workshop of the state owned amber works of Konisberg Prussia. Since Bernstein was considered a national treasure, the government subsidized and controlled the use of it and also the harvesting of this precious commodity. We have subsequently also ascertained that the amber used here is Samland Bernstein and another name for the manufactory was SBW – GmBH “Samland Bernstein Werk.”  The absolute beauty of this box is also manifest by the three tier assemblage that gives a ‘stacked look’ and the effect is extremely pleasing to the eye of the beholder. The absolute precision workmanship in the shaping and placement of each planchet of amber is a magnificent consummation of artistic accomplishment probably never to be seen again!  The amber craftsmen of Konigsberg were the supreme artisans in this ’lost art.’

Yes, there are amber objects from Poland and Russia that could be compared but nothing approaching the perfection of symmetry and sheer elegance of design and exquisiteness. The amber artists of old Konigsberg, that grand old city," the ‘Pearl of the Reich," the city founded by the Teutonic Knights in 1255.  The once beautiful city that was beloved by its Prussian citizenry was renamed “Kaliningrad” after the Communist hordes took it over in 1945. Most of the people fled Konisgberg ahead of the Red army’s advance in October1944 particularly after word spread of horrible Soviet atrocities at Nemmersdorf and Neustettin. No massacre in history could compare with the wanton murders committed against the common German citizenry and the last of the heroic Wehrmacht defenders -- even to read about it is sickening, we will say no more of this. You can research it on search engines on the web. We mention it in passing only to give some insight into the horrid fate of this one of the most beautiful and cultured cities of “Old Germania.”

This practically priceless work of art stands in testimony to the excellence of German craftsmanship the eminent historical importance notwithstanding.

PRICE: WITHDRAWN

DESCRIPTION: This is a portable, 1930's Olympic office style typewriter as used by SS personnel, both Allgemeine and Waffen SS. The key #5 is also the key only seen on the typewriters belonging to the Schutzstaffel. The G.I. looter that brought it back from France where it was found, used it for years after the war so actually the ribbon has never been changed in all these years and to be able to effectively use it, this must be done. I'm sure that on the internet, a 1930's Olympic ribbon spool could be found. I believe VJA Products has them and there is a host of others as well. Other than that, the machine is in great shape and functions well. We leave all items as received from the vets, but you will surely find such a ribbon, black and red combination, for around $10.00 - $15.00. This is a real opportunity to procure the genuine article and if you are issuing passes for R&R leave for your "staffel," you will need this!

PRICE: SOLD

DESCRIPTION: This soft cover book whose title is translated as “You Call the SS” was produced at the SS Headquarters in Berlin under the supervision of the Reichs-Fuhrer SS Heinrich Himmler probably in the late 40’s. It was basically a primer for recruitment in the ranks of the Waffen SS. It is soft cover with 96 pages. It measures 6" x 8" and is in very decent shape overall. It is filled with pictures and text that is designed to show the reader what glories can be achieved while saving the European continent from Bolshevism. Germany and other nations sought to achieve this through the promotion of the SS ideals and the participation of the young men of the Reich and European kin whose bravery, dedication and chivalry was seen in battle for culture, country, and Fuhrer. There are many sayings, speeches and statements by Adolf Hitler, Heinrich Himmler, Sepp Dietrich. Particualry interesting is the oath that the SS recruit verbalizes upon his entrance into the SS organization.”Ich Schwore Dir Adolf Hitler Als Fuhrer." The various elevation of military grades are explained. The SS Junkerschule Bad Tolz is shown and the training of the Waffen SS recruits is explained. The various recruitment HQ of the Waffen SS are listed with addresses and phone numbers for potential recruits. This list explains the title “Dich Ruft Die SS." The young man who wished to join or get information would actually telephone one of these offices and talk to a recruiter. There are also forms at the back of the book that one could send in for information to any of these offices. The book is loaded with information about the Waffen SS, such as ranks, job titles, Waffenfarben (colors) of piping on uniforms of the Wehrmacht. Equivalent ranks between SS and army and many pictures of SS in action. Plus maps, and there is a great center spread of the Fuhrer with his Leibstandarte A.H. at the front. This is the ultimate book on the men whose motto was Mein Ehre Heist Treue! My Honor is Loyalty.

PRICE: $485.00 Expensive??’ Say,”RARE” instead of expensive! Say “GREAT” instead of mediocre.

Card Case Having Belonged to Reichsprotector and Obergruppenfuhrer Reinhard Heydrich  (Item SS 35-11 & PERS 4-14)

DESCRIPTION: This is an absolutely unique piece of Third Reich Art. It is a wooden box that would be for the purpose of containing the personal calling cards of none other than SS Obergruppenfuhrer Reinhard Tristan Heydrich, who in 1941 was appointed Stellvetretender Reichsprotektor in the protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia. Contrary to Orthodox-doctored history, he was actually well liked by the folk of the Czech lands especially when he effectively suppressed the black market. Food rations and pensions were increased and unemployment insurance was established for the very first time under Heydrich. Conditions in Prague were quite peaceful and industrial output soared. Because of his astute leadership and popularity, Hitler was considering naming the young man the German governor of Liberated Paris. He was so popular that the British War Lords felt that he had to be eliminated because it just wouldn’t do to have a ‘Good Nazi’ on the European scene. It could be disastrous to the agenda of the allies, so a plan was fomented to train two and more potential murderers from the Czech government in exile.  They were trained by the British Special Operations Unit. They were parachuted into Czeckslovakia on 28 December 1941, dropped from a Halifax of the 138th Squadron of the RAF. The operation of this murder plot almost failed but it succeeded after all and the SS Reich-Protector was killed in the line of duty just as so many men who resisted the rule of Britannia were destroyed by stealth and backstabbing. This has been the way of the rulers of the Island Empire, Rule Britannia! By any means plausible and possible, fair or foul!

The box seems to be made using holly-wood with ivory inlay; it measures 4 ½ x 3 ¼ inch in size. The case compartment measures about 2 ¾ by 3 inches. German calling cards of that period were smaller than the American or British ones. The top section of the case has an ivory eagle in classic pose. The body of the case has a striking pose of European man killing the snakes of Bolshivism and certain ethnic minorities who would destroy the “Heilege Reich.” At the left of the warrior as we view him is the runic SS and to the right the Sonnenrad (Sun Wheel Swastika.). The symbols of the great European struggle against the evil forces of a primeval darkness that threatened to take over all of the European homeland of the Aryans, Teutons and kindred! A similar motif can still be seen at the back outside wall of the former office of Julius Striecher in Munich even today, unless the culture destroying Vandals of government have wrecked it and demolished it. It was still there in 2007 while we were there. This is a meaningful relic of a very turbulent time, a time that is under historic scrutiny today finally due to the advent of the internet and certain history scholars who feel that history should be carefully examined and brought up into accordance with the facts, and many will be amazed when the propaganda veils start to fall and certain truths emerge. The old canard of the victors of a war writing the history of any war all the while lauding their side and demonizing the losers no longer completely holds sway!  This magnificent historical important relic is priced very reasonably by the consigner.  

PRICE: SOLD

Special 1936 Mod Officers Dagger from Cavalry Champion and Sturmbannfuhrer GuntherTemme (Item SS 35-12 & SSDAG 1-7)

DESCRIPTION: This is the most incredibly important dagger we have had since we procured the chained Mod 1936 dagger of Prince Josias Waldeck V. Pymont. This is the dagger of SS Standartenfuhrer Gunther Temme who was the greatest horseman of the SS cavalry, ranking only below the equestrian feats of Hermann Fegelein, the Commander of the famed SS Cavalry Division. The Cavalry detachments were the idea brought to fruition by Reichsfuhrer SS Heinrich Himmler. His idea was to give the German Nation and people “an elite within the elite;” they were early known as the equestrian SS and later the Cavalry Division. They always received great Party support and were given all the social prestige by the adoring public. Professional jockeys and horse farmers were recruited to the ranks in almost every tournament in the 30’s and 40’s. SS riders were almost invariably the winners. Distinctive from all the others within the SS, these riders were the “Stuff of Glory." Many of them became famous throughout the land, even royals from some of Germany’s past ruling houses flocked to this organization and a SS riding school of gigantic proportions was set up in Munich and another in Berlin. The usual social order as observed in the German Army from earliest times was cast aside in the equestrian SS. Himmler believed equestrianism had been too exclusive and hitherto it was the rule that only the elite and wealthy plus stuffed shirts of the army Command and Cavalry Schools and the wealthy could even afford the training that was necessary to become accomplished horsemen, but now German farmers and the landed gentry rode together side by side in equal pride. Gunther Temme who later became the "Star Rider of the SS" was born 29 August 1900 in Botschin, West Prussia. His occupation was that of farmer. In World War I, he served in a cavalry regiment and later he served in the “Stalhelm.”  He joined the SA in April 1933 remaining there until joining the SS on Jan 5th 1934 and was assigned to the 2/SS Reiterstandarte 1 commissioned on July 1st 1934.  He became special duties officer of Reiterabschnitt 1 V at the start of August 1935 and was promoted to Obersturmfuhrer on January 30 1936. Temme moved to SS Reiterstandarte 7 in Berlin on Nov 1st 1936 where he became Hauptsturmfuhrer on Jan 30 1937 and was assigned as Sachbearbeiter 1/R for Oberabschnitt “Ost” succeeding Paul Brantener on July 1 1937.

Temme remained there until added to the faculty of the SS Hauptreitschule in Munich during mid-April 1939.  Promoted to Sturmbannfuhrer on April 20 1939 he was assigned as Leiter Der Nachersaltzstellle with the staff of the initial Berittene Abteilung in Sept. 1939, then Sturmbannfuhrer D.R. on March 1 1940 as Fuhrer Beim Stabe of the 1st SS Totenkopfreiterstandarte. It was in this rank and this time that he commissioned the dagger that we offer to be customized. In mid-March 1941, he returned to Munich as Schwadron Chef of the 3/SS Kavallerieersatz Abteilung and then Commander of the Abteilung succeeding Josef Fritz returning to the front to lead the Reconnaissance Element that was decimated under his command in early 1942. Promoted to Obersturmbannfuhrer D.R. in March, Temme led the rebuilding elements of SS Kavallerie Regt. 2 in Debica into June 1942 while the SS Cavalry Division was being formed. After serving again in Munich, he was assigned to the divisional staff of the SS Kavallerie Division in April 1943 while serving in the command of Hermann Fegelein until posted to a staff assignment in the SS Fuhrerhauptamt with AMT VI Reit und Fahr Wessen in August 1943. Gunther Temme then took command of the SS Remountermt of SS Wartheland in Feb 1944 -- his last known posting and was promoted to SS Standartenfuhrer D.R. on Dec 21 1944. During his faithful service to the Reich he was listed as having received:

The Honor Cross for Front Fighter
The German Olympic Honor Cross
Medal 2nd Class 1936
The Iron Cross 2nd Class 1941
The Iron Cross 1st Class  1942 
The War Service Cross 2nd Class 
The Honor Sword of the SS
The Honor Ring (Totenkopfring)
The Yule Candle Holder (Julleuchter)
And an award from the SS Lebensborn 

His equestrian victories were legion and legend. He was, in addition to being a farmer, a prominent jockey. As an entered jockey from East Prussia, he won 1st place in 1935 as SS entry in the prestigious Deutsches Spring Derby in Hamburg. He was Europe’s spring champion extraordinaire! He was considered Germany’s most gifted jockey and, of course, the greatest SS rider and he brought fame and glory to his troop of riders. He actually won the German Derby twice, he rode without flaw and he won one after the other of jumping tournaments in Germany. He was written about in all the German papers in glowing terms including the SS journal Swarzekorps where he was lauded as the greatest of all jockeys. He was promoted to ride with the various members of royalty in Equestrian Regt. 7 in Berlin. He became a favored guest with army cavalry units and the upper crust of German nobility. He was often exempted from normal SS duties because of his value as a showman of the Reich. He certainly was that! An incredible rider without equal whose name would still resound in equestrian circles worldwide were it not for the bias that still pervades against the history of the SS. However, if Rittmeister Temme were here with us today, we would surely hear him say, “Wenn Alle Untrue Werden So Bleiben Wir Doch Treue, Meine Ehre Heist Treue.”

The dagger is the standard type 2 – 1936 pattern chained dagger authorized for wear by SS officers by Heinrich Himmler in Aug 25 1936.  Gunther Temme had the SS identification number of 204956. There are copies of Dienstaltersliste with the grouping we offer, this lists all the personal of the SS who had reached officer classification. There are several Dienstaltersliste in the provenance package that comes with the dagger that show his various promotions and honor items such as Totenkopf ring, sword, medals and his rise in the ranks. Under the cross guard of the dagger is the stamped SS number assigned to him - 204 956 on the front of the cross guard is also found engraved the rank of Sturmbannfuhrer in initials Stbf-Temme. The dagger is as we have noted a 1936 Mod. Officer's chained dagger in better than average condition. This model of SS dagger is familiar of course to collectors and historians, but after this the familiarity ends and we will now point out the custom work that the Sturmbannfuhrer had done to his dagger. Stbf. Teme always stood out from within the SS organization due to his amazing proclivities at the equestrian arts so it follows that he might have had a bit of that sprit d’corps that horsemen, especially cavalry officers often had. The dagger has on its scabbard throat an SS skull flanked by oak leaves and acorns all in silver and applied. The skull is of the type used by the Death's Head Division “Der Totenkopf Standarte." And on the cross guard in front there are the initials SS-TK-R-STD. This comes out to be SS Totenkopf Reiter Standarte. This of course would have been worn by Temme while assigned to this elite cavalry outfit. At the bottom of the scabbard on the drag is a single silver oak leaf -- so the dagger is quite unique as was the man. We have already indicated that Temme had special dispensation to avoid the regular duties of an SS officer due to his “Star” status and this obviously would be the reason that he gained the privilege of having this custom work on his issue dagger. Another example of exception to the normally stringent rules is found on our Germania pages at page 25 of Schutzstaffel (SS) Page 25 1-A where you can see that just such an exception was made for the Hereditary Prince Josias Von Waldeck und Pyrmont. Why? Because he was of respected royalty and also a horseman and held the title Leiter Das Deutschen Reitsports (Head of the SS Office for Riding.). The cavalry definitely were given many privileges beyond their SS Kameraden. They were the treasured and beloved showmen of the Reich. And Gunther Temme was the best of the best!

Included with the Temme dagger is a great documentation portfolio prepared from the U.S. National Archives Administration by Ross J. Kelbaugh a professional researcher in Baltimore, MD.  The documents in the portfolio include his personal data summary, his various ranks, his military service, pictures of Temme from archives, his officer file and his Rassé und Siedlungs records (race and resettlement records) (RuSha file), and there are explanations of these records and their purposes are included. Then there are the SS Dienstalterliste the service records from 1936, 1937, 1938 through to 1944.  He is listed in each with his awards as mentioned earlier and also his subsequent ranks. In addition to all of this there are 151 pages separate, to include the documents from the SS Race and Resettlement Office and as mentioned his SS officer file. This makes for a huge stack of documentation, all very reticent to the life of this illustrious SS officer. This dagger and all the bountiful documents make for one of the most important historical pieces we have ever had. It is our distinct pleasure to present to the collecting public the Prince's dagger and this one that surely are the most important SS daggers ever to be located.

PRICE: SOLD

DESCRIPTION: This is the earliest of the National Socialist flag pole tops. It would screw into the wooden shaft of the flag pole. It was used in the 1920’s during the Kampfzeit (“The Struggle for Power”). It was used by the SA (Stormtroopers) and the early SS formations that were Hitler’s Body Guard. The early eagles had the sharp pointed wing tips; later they were more refined, these are very scarce and seldom show up. This one is in practically perfect condition.

PRICE: SOLD

Kulturzeichen

An SS Officer Candidate Sword by WKC (SS Bewerberdegen) (Item SS 35-14 & SSDAG 1-8)

DESCRIPTION: This is a very fine example of the SS officer candidate sword, an important accoutrement to the aspiring young recruit as he makes his way up through the ranks to becoming a fully accredited SS officer. The SS logo (the runes) are not found on these swords, as the wearer had a long way to go in his training and certification before he would receive the officer degen. The blade is marked with the Knight's head logo of the Weyersberg Kirschbaum Co. of Solingen (WKC) on the back side of the blade. Directly behind the WKC mark is the Kulturzeichen which is an intertwined Seigrune. The original designer of the SS and Police swords was Professor & SS Obersturmbannfuhrer Karl Diebitsch who was in charge of Heinrich Himmler’s personal staff department of the Reichsfuhrer SS. The Diebitsch mark on a SS object signified that it was appropriate for use and therefore conformed to the high standards of the SS. Diebitsch’s office which had great influence over the artistic designs that were used by the RFSS. He personally designed objects d’art in a wide range of subjects to even include the decoration of buildings and the nature of ceremonies. Many collectors and dealers refer to Diebitsch’s Kulturzeichen as an SS proof mark. This is not correct; it really was meant to show that the object carrying this mark was deemed by the Reichsfuhrer to be consistent with the SS image and their high ideals and therefore was appropriate for use by the SS. The sword measures 39 ½ inches long in its scabbard. The blade is in perfect unmarred condition. The grip has no chips or blemishes. The Kulturzeichen appears on the top scabbard lip as well as on the blade. The sword also has something you just never see -- the black leather carry strap with pebbled snap attachment. This ultra-rare piece is beautifully marked with the words and numerals SS 371/38 and the RZM logo. This is just never seen. The paint on the scabbard is all original and has the usual minor scratches here and there. The sword is in A-1 condition overall but you must realize it was worn. This sword would be a great addition to a good collection of SS items or even a good sword collection. A prime example of N.S. mastery in highly decorative and meaningful weaponry.

PRICE: SOLD

DESCRIPTION: Here also is a fine textbook example of what is the ultimate SS dagger and very likely the ultimate NS dagger altogether. This one has the beautiful anodized Finish on the scabbard that the purists all look for. Never refinished, all 100% original. It has the highest detailed alternating skulls and SS runes all in high relief, it has the type 2 chain similar to the one featured in SS Dag 1-1 on this page. The Kulturzeichen on the first link on the shorter chained section is as also depicted in the description of the dagger at DAG 1-1, the type 2 chain is produced of solid nickel silver metal, the grip is in the fine ebony wood and fits perfectly to the top and cross guard with no gaps. The throat and the boot and middle band are all marching and as nice as they could be, and as noted earlier,  this is a very important consideration to ponder when buying a 1936 mod. Dagger. We have also informed our collectors that many offered on other sites have been altered or are outright mixtures. Buying 1936 Model SS daggers for dealers such as we at Germania is really no longer a profitable venture. There generally is no room left in them and everyone knows these models are truly treasures. Why then do we bother to invest in them? Well, because first of all the only way these pieces can go is up!  And, so much do we personally love this particular dagger that we continue to buy them practically at every opportunity. Yes, there are rare daggers that ultimately sell for much more money, but to me none of them have the appeal of these artistically handsome, historically meaningful, daggers. The blade on this one is superb!  Bright and unmarked, shines like a mirror, and without a moment’s hesitation. There is a chip in the handle at the place where the wood meets the top guard. I would feel compelled to say that this is the finest mod, 36 that I have seen in a very long time. It has often been stated that if you do not have one of these daggers, you haven’t reached the goal of true 3rd Reich collecting and if you are just starting out in this fascinating field of collecting, why not start at the pinnacle?  Again this is the ultimate 3rd Reich item. Nothing can match it for importance or beauty. Am I being prejudiced? Well, I just can’t help it, I simply love 36 Model SS daggers and once you obtain one you will feel the same; there is a certain magic about them! Meine Ehre Heisst Treue!

PRICE: SOLD

 Chained Officer Model 1936 Pattern SS Dagger (Item SS 35-16 & SSDAG 1-3B)

DESCRIPTION: Here we present yet another fine 36 Mod Chained Service Dagger. I have said it before and I will say it again. This particular dagger is in my way of thinking (and others share the opinion) the ultimate epitome of the relics of the Third Reich. It is the embodiment of dramatic perspective. The whole agenda and mythos of National Socialism in its most eminent phenomenon (the SS).  Ever since the collecting of 3rd Reich edged weapons started in earnest in the late 1950’s, these daggers have been the most sought after collectable among hobbyists and history buffs. There is a magic about them and not only the striking beauty and artistic acumen was achieved by the original designer but a combination of both incorporated in these magnificent weapons! They even charm with a sometimes reluctant measure of admiration the liberals and sometimes it is just pure fascination as expressed by those who have long ago accepted the assessments and hypothesis that the SS was an instrument of evil. One of the leading experts and purveyors of N.S. daggers and swords who is also a talented author is still Alice in Wonderland when it comes to his natural inclination to admire the original owners of these relics. He stops short of saying it in his writings. However, orthodox history lessons called rightly brainwashing have pretty much overcome his initial approbation and he returns to believing  the sensationalist so called historians. (The controlled ones.) Enough of that for now, I do get carried away sometimes. That is often the problem with being a revisionist historian.

In any case, here is a fine textbook example of the most sought after dagger model in the world; the condition is superb. Where the ebony grip meets the top guard and cross guard there are no gaps as often is found on some examples. The nickel finish on the grip and scabbard match. The skulls and alternating runic links are highly detailed and stand out in beautiful high relief. The chain and middle band have a particularly beautiful patina. The eagle in the grip is also very clearly defined.  The scabbard is with the painted finish (original). The Kulturzeithaen on the 2nd line of the shorter chain is interesting in that it is depicted rather side-ways instead of up and down. (Different but right!)  The scabbards “boot” has the ball end in perfect non-ruptured shape. The blade fits tight into the scabbard.  In fact ‘tight’ would be a good verbiage. As far as all fittings on this dagger, the blade is exceptionally fine and unblemished except for the usual light streaks made by the metallic retainer strips inside the scabbard. This is absolutely natural on SS and SA daggers but on this particular dagger they are hardly noticeable at all. A great and beautifully brilliant blade. This is a type II dagger. Whereby the Wotan Knot at the top of the chain suspension is closed, unlike the type one where the DRGM mark shows through. So, collectors, here is a chance to acquire the “best of the best”. A dagger you will be very proud to own.

PRICE: SOLD

DESCRIPTION: We proudly present an exquisite reduplication of Wolfgang Willrich’s folder of 12 prints produced in 1936 featuring the bust portraits of both Allgemeine and V.T. Troopers. Although Willrich was one of the most gifted and prolific artists of the Third Reich, this particular offering is so rare that only 3 original sets are known of in collections today. Therefore, we are extremely pleased to offer this magnificent reproduction that is accurate in every detail including size, sepia tones, and the finest printing quality available anywhere. We have a limited quantity available and because of the beauty and rarity of this portfolio, we are sure that it will become valuable in a short time; a real collector’s opportunity. The prints are individually presented and not bound (suitable for framing) and measure 11 1/2 x 16 1/2 inches with a page of the same dimensions containing a foreword by Heinrich Himmler concerning the importance of this set of prints to the ideology of the Nazi Movement. All are enclosed inside a heavy and handsome black folder boldly embossed with the SS runes and legend.

PRICE: $39.95 plus postage and handling -dealer inquiries solicited - very good lot prices available

DESCRIPTION: This is a fine crystal beer glass 9 ¼ inches tall of the type that was made first for and distributed to men of the Allgemeine SS to celebrate the occasion of the winter Solstice. In a 1936 memoranda, SS Reichsfuhrer Heinrich Himmler set forth a list of approved holidays based upon both Christian and Pagan political precedents, and besides Hitler’s birthday and the November 9th Beer Hall Putsch Anniversary, Christmas and Yuletide were ultra-important. The Yuletide or winter solstice brought together practically the entire SS Fraternity at candlelight banquet tables and around raging bonfires, observances that harked back to Teutonic tribal rites. At those banquets the one liquid most served and consumed was traditional German beer in steins and beer glasses. In 1941 in the 2nd year of the war, the men of the Panzer Grenadier Division SS Leibstandarte celebrated the Julfest and the beer glasses were once again brought out and of course new ones were made for a celebration of the ancient ritual at the front. Now the men imbibing the delicious nectar were dressed in the grey green of the Waffen SS The silly tales about the SS under Himmler trying to move the men away from Christianity is “hog wash.” The Waffen SS even had Catholic and Protestant Chaplains. The celebration of the so-called pagan rituals was to simply honor the Teutonic past of the Germanic people. Kein Volk Lebt Langer Als Die Dockumente Seiner Kultur!  ("No people live longer than the documentation of their culture", Adolf Hitler quoted . . . in the opening of Der Haus Der Deutschen Kunst 1937.)  The glass is hand etched with the SS symbol in a shield at the top and Zum Julefest 1942 deeply engraved in beautiful calligraphy letters. A beautiful memento of an “Iron Time”.

PRICE: $1,150.00

DESCRIPTION: This is a wonderful presentation item from an anonymous presenter. It is a silver box with silver and enamel decoration very professionally accomplished, although we do not know if it was actually presented or personally commissioned by the Reichsprotector himself. The markings do not seem to be German so we logically presume that a jeweler either made it from an existing box or else made it from scratch. The jeweler may have been Czech; the markings are shown in our attached pictures show the marks clearly. The piece measures across the top 6 ½ x 5 and it is 1 inch deep, the box lid has a depiction of Arno Breker’s famous statue “Die  Partei”. This was part of a pair of heroic figures that flanked the entrance to Hitler’s New Reichs Chancery. This one was Brecker's monumental statue representing the spirit of National Socialism. However, the statue in front of the entrance of the New Reichs Chancellery holds the torch in the opposite hand. Why? The figure of this Aryan man is flanked by 4 symbols:

No. 1 The enameled Swastika shown in a silver wreath.
No. 2 the initials R.H. Reinhard (Heydrich) in classic Roman script
3. In the bottom right you can see the enameled SS runes encircled in a silver wreath and in the left bottom corner is a runic symbol used by Heydrich on his airplanes.

During WWII the planes flown by Heydrich all had this symbol -- it was an ancient German runic character that stood for “Victory”. He flew a BF 110 in the fighter group 11. J6 77 in Norway in 1940. He had the rank of Major in the Luftwaffe. So you can see this symbol hereon the box in fine silver art work. Engraved on the front of the box are the words “Die Ewige Flamme Brent in Unserem Herzen Fur all Zukunft (translated: The eternal flame burns in our hearts for all the future). This alludes directly to the flame of the torch that is held in the hand of the Breker figure depicted in the top design and of course the flame represents the belief in the N.S. agenda. It all ties together beautifully in this exceptional relic of a very turbulent era. SS Obergruppenfuhrer Reinhard Heydrich, in my opinion was not murdered by the British with their Czech assassins because he was a” bad man”. No, he was foully murdered precisely because he was too good! The British War lords decided it was imperative to kill him because quite frankly his popularity was spreading and European people were starting to see very definite positives in the National Socialist agenda. He enjoyed the support and was well liked by the more decent of the Czech citizenry because he performed so many acts of charity and social progress in Czechoslovakia while he was Reichs Protector of Bohemia and Moravia and as President of the European Interpol, he brought justice to many arch criminals that had been amassing fortunes while exploiting the Sudeten and Czech people. He brought in the Red Cross for the first time. Yes, he was merciless to the enemy. He was after all a Policeman -- a Super Policeman. He was a strict authoritarian and dedicated to the rule of law and order.

Yes it is very regrettable what was done to the town of Lidice.in the aftermath of his murder. That was inexcusable but as the American military has often stated “War is Hell” and to make the omelet you must break a few egg! Also, the Czech and Yugoslav partisans were the most evil lot that the Devil ever sent to earth!  The tortures and ghastly murders perpetrated against Germans both soldiers and innocent civilians were fresh in the minds of the revengeful combat soldiers who executed Lidice. The killing of SS Obergruppenfuhrer Heydrich was as they envisioned it “the last straw”. Make no mistake, he was very much admired by his “Band of Brothers,” the SS. I hope to God the world never again sees as horrible a conflict as the European continent had to suffer in WWII (a completely fratricidal war!).

This cigar box was found in Prague and had been looted by Russians or by Czechs. It was later sold to a German part time antique dealer and eventually made its way to the Stuttgart Waffen-Borse where we managed to purchase it. We feel it was taken from either Heydrich's country villa at Panenske Blezany or his office at Prague Castle. Many other items were looted at both locations and we have had some other of these items in the recent past, but nothing so wonderful as this one. I believe it says it all!  The whole agenda and mythos of the N.S. movement and the ideals of Reinhard Heydrich are at least partially revealed in art form. This has to be the epitome of SS items. No other item could be more historically important in WWII relics.

NO LONGER AVAILABLE

DESCRIPTION: Here is one of the most popular pieces of jewelry known to the military collector’s world and certainly the most sought after item of the Third Reich. Donald Boyle, the author of the book, The SS Totenkopf H. Himmler Ring 1933-1945, says these rings were bestowed upon selected members of the SS according to specific criteria. The ring was considered by Reichsfuhrer SS Heinrich Himmler to be of, if not, the most prestigious award of the Schutzstaffel. Construction techniques never varied and all of these rings were made of solid silver and followed the same design and pattern, although minor variations do occur since they were handmade. The inside of the honor rings contain the recipient’s last name, the date of the award, and a facsimile of Himmler’s signature (‘H. Himmler”) and the letters SLB (which stands for Seinen Lieben -- with respect and honor). The fascinating story of the history of these rings can be reviewed in Mr. Boyle’s intriguing book mentioned above. The book is a must read for those interested in the SS organization, The Wewelsburg Castle connection, and the mysticism surrounding it. Also, it is rather spellbinding to read about the criteria for the awarding of this coveted item and information on the Gahr company, the sole maker of these rings, details on construction; etc. This book is highly recommended!

The ring we offer is in excellent plus condition. Most of the rings found are in very worn shape. Often the runes are either partially gone or completely gone from extensive wear. This ring was one that was awarded to a young SS man by the name of Richard Kuhn, and his identity book (which is included) details this information about him:

Member of the National-Socialist German Workers Party
Membership No. 2762096
First and Second Name: Richard Kuhn
Profession: agricultural laborer (Landwirtschaftsgehilfe)
Place of Residence; Neerstedt-Wildeshausen
Date of Birth: May 12th, 1897
Place of Birth: Sharlaton
Joined the NSDAP July 1, 1930
Munich, January 3, 1939
His official N.S. party membership pin is with the grouping
His Identity Card is auto pen signed by Hitler and Schwarz, the Party treasurer
(Signature of Kuhn)
Stamp of local NSDAP chapter Brettorf
(Signed by heads of local Sturm  )

This ring was taken from Kuhn whose picture shows him to be an Unterstrumfuhrer. The item was confiscated by a lieutenant in the Special Investigative Unit of the British Army. This lieutenant’s name was Frank E.O. Hansford.  Hansford was a police detective in England before being selected to go to Germany to help sort out political prisoners who were members of the SS and other special units. We also have Hansford’s diary and there in one of the pages is what we would consider a very sad note dealing with the capture and interrogation of SS Untersturmfuhrer Kuhn. On the 21st of April, Lt. Hansford notes in his diary that Richard K. Kuhn hanged himself while incarcerated. Why? Well many of these young men were so exuberant about the Third Reich and its past and future that they could not see living in the ‘brave new world’ of democracy, preferring honorable death to entering the world of ‘Coca-Cola and chewing gum culture’ (to them it loomed as An Orwellian nightmare!)  We will never know if this was Kuhn’s motivation, but it seems he stayed true to his SS oath.  “Meine Ehre Heisst Treue.” My honor is Loyalty.

The ring is marked 7/3/36 and of course it has all the marks inside to include “Seinen Leben (S/L)” and his last name, Kuhn and the facsimile signature of Reichsfuhrer Heinrich Himmler. The ring is the rarely found 1930’s style and is excellent plus condition. It would have to be rated as one of the finest examples we have ever offered of these prodigiously important relics and to have the NSDAP Party book with it is practically unheard of!  The ring is clearly an excellent textbook example with the nice joiner seam inside and typical engraving. The size of the ring is English size W and this is equivalent, according to a jeweler, to American size 11. The internal diameter is just over 0.8 inches. Whether you collect daggers, badges, or uniforms none can really compare to the SS mythos and historical importance of the Totenkopf honor ring, which was the uncontested highest SS-officer award in that, was presented and approved by the Reichsfuhrer, Heinrich Himmler himself. So this is it! ‘The ultimate N.S. item! Nothing excites the SS collector more that this particular piece of jewelry. 

No. 1.  Along with the ring is also included the picture of lieutenant the interrogator Hansford and his diary where he notes the “suicide”? Of the prisoner and a few pages from his Hansford’s field message book.
No.2 Kuhn’s party pin badly chipped
No. 3 Kuhn’s Party Ausweiss (Id book) with his Picture and N.S. Party dues stamps.

This is an incredible grouping considering the provenance and extra items that are with it. Here is a rather sad story but this grouping of items are testimony to a brave young man’s loyalty and high ideals. To have received the ring he would have had to be a rather special soldier of the German Reich!

PRICE: $14,000.00 Very reasonable for this one! (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

DESCRIPTION: Another fine SS officer candidate sword. This one is unmarked with company name in Solingen. It also has no kulturzeichen on sword or scabbard. This leads us to believe it was made at the Dauchau forge (go to SS 15-1 in this SS section to see an officer sword by Paul Muller and there is a brief explanation of Muller's Dachau swords. We explain that the Dachau pieces were not marked at all.). They are much rarer than the company-made examples. The purpose of the officer candidate sword is visited on this page at SS 35-14 and SSDAG 1-8; please read for details. This sword that we offer here is without the leather carry strap. The scabbard has been professionally repainted but this does not affect its originality and value. The SS officers would often repaint their swords if they looked worn and dingy. The grip is in excellent condition without chips in the ebony wood. The blade is in perfect condition. These blades were not plated and were in natural steel in keeping with the SS tradition of natural purity. This sword must have belonged to a very tall SS man because it measures 41" long in the scabbard...largest we have ever seen! All the metal parts are in bright immaculate condition, like the example shown above (SS 35-14). Would be a brilliant addition to any SS or general sword collection. For further description of Dachau swords, see Tom Wittman's book, Collecting the Dress Daggers and Swords of the German SS.

PRICE: $2,800.00

DESCRIPTION: By ID we mean the SS recruits handbook, pocket-size. Ok, it's not in the greatest condition...loose spine, some staining on the color plates (minor), white pages turning slightly brown from 75 or so years of age. The map and a coupe of the last pages are loosened and detached, no notations are made in the daily diary section. Each date throughout the book has a separate printed blockand in each are histories of what happened or happens on that date. For example, April 20th is the birthday of the Fuhrer, November 9th ceremonies at the Fedherrenhalle in memory of the martyrs of the Putsch, November 10th Martin Luther born. In the front cover is a saying by Heinrich Himmler and in the back cover is a picture of Himmler reviewing the SS recruits. The best part is 24 pages of color plates of flags, uniforms, insignia, shoulder boards, medals, collar tabs, etc. As we said, it is distressed but extremely rare. The book measure 5" x 3 1/8" and about 1/2" thick.

PRICE: SOLD

DESCRIPTION: This is a very early trumpet banner of the Death's Head Standard. It is measured at 23 x 18 ½ inches not counting the fringe on the three sides; this silver bullion fringe is about 2 inches long. Also there are three cloth loops at the top that are about 1 ¼ inches long. These are for fastening the banner to the trumpet. The item has been black lighted and passes the tests. The piece was from the estate of PFC James D. Lund, U.S. Army 2679032 who was attached to the U.S. lst Armored Division. To see more about the Totenkopf Verbande go to our site in the Allgemeine SS section listings and go to page four and to SS 4-5. The skull on this banner is probably the ugliest I have ever seen but it must be kept in mind that in the earliest days of the NSDAP there was no issue of such things and it was pretty much go it on your own as far as such individual trappings were constructed. Much of the items like the banner would be pretty much left to the imagination of men in the units and perhaps their wives who did the sewing. The banner is certainly in keeping with the Esprit d’Corp of this unit of steel hard troopers. Later trumpet banners after 1934 were rather more artistically manufactured in a more professional manner. This however is much more rare in that it is a Kampzeit item (Time of Struggle). If it isn’t pretty it is strongly suggestive of power (Starke Macht!)  These troops were not anyone that the Commie street hoodlums wanted to tangle with. They were tough and unrelenting.

The material is a heavy grade wool that has a natural stiffness to it, not at all light or flimsy. The wool has the same weave pattern as some of the NSDAP banners. The skull being jawless is much like the Hussar skulls on the busbies of those stalwart elite horsemen of old. The SS runes and skull are fashioned from a high grade linen and are applied by way of heavy machine stitching in an overlapped (V) pattern. Both display dye bleed into them from the black wool base. They have brown age discoloring in areas. There is one area where the weave has been slightly broken on one rune where this was folded onto itself. The bullion has a cotton base that has age where it is exposed to a camel brown color and the bullion itself has an age patina that is exactly like other flags that we have acquired from veterans. So, we are quite content that this banner is 100% original and extremely rare.

PRICE: SOLD

DESCRIPTION: This is a great grouping of fine porcelain china from the HQ of the 2nd Waffen SS Division “Deutschland”.  All white bone china pieces that are trimmed in black and red striping on white background (the National colors). Each piece also bears the division's emblem -- a large red shield with a clipped upper right corner holding a reverse ‘n’ with a vertical center bar. Included are:

* No. 1 - a mocha pot 9-5/8" tall with a ‘swan neck’ spout and removable lid
* No. 2 - sugar bowl with cover
* No. 3 - set of four 2-1/3" tall mocha cups
* No. 4 - large vegetable serving bowl 2-1/8" tall with slopping sides 11- 5/8" diameter
* No. 5 - three soup bowls also marked on the low rim opposite the divisional shield there is in black letters “Deutschland”.  The period of manufacture of these pieces was sometime between Dec 3 1940 and January 1941, when the division was known by that name. To avoid confusion with the regiment using the same name, the designation was changed to Waffen SS Division (Das Reich).
* No. 6 - salad dish with shield and Deutschland as above items are marked. This has a 7- 3/8 diameter. All the pieces are marked under the glaze on the bottom with a crown over the name ‘Victoria” and “Waffen SS” a very rare grouping in mint condition.

The Victoria Porcelain Company: The company was founded in 1183 by Lazarus Rosenfeld Ltd.  The Victoria Porcelain factory was located in Altrouhlau, Austria and it was sold to Franz Schmidt two years later and became the finest and most productive porcelain factory of its time; the pieces manufactured by the Victoria Company were considered commercial products, at the time they were not considered to have great artistic value. However, the company also produced many pieces that are of high quality and are considered by today’s collectors to have great artistic merit. In addition to porcelain pieces, the Victoria Company also produced a ceramic product called porcelite. Although this type of porcelain is considered a lower quality ceramic product, it was used all the way up and through WWII because of its durability and strength.

Das Reich: This was the 2nd Panzer Division -- considered an elite formation amongst the thirty-eight divisions fielded by the Waffen SS. It served during the invasion of France and took part in several battles on the Eastern Front (they particularly won combat laurels in  the battle of Prokhorovka against the 5th Guards tank Army at the Titanic battle of Kursk where the young Spartans of the SS fought valiantly against massive odds. Afterwards they were transferred to the west and took part in the desperate attempt to turn back the forces of Stalin’s “willing helpers” at Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge and the ending the war with the last stand in Hungary and Austria.) The symbol for the Das Reich Division (formally Deutschland) was the Wolf’s Hook or Wolfsangel.  The division fought with honor and ever loyal to their oath “Wenn Alle Untreu Werden so Bleiben wir doch treue” (English: If all become unfaithful we remain loyal). Yes, yes, we are familiar with the executions at the French village of Oradour Sur-Glane and it was sheer horror personified but to every war story there are invariably two sides and thereby hangs the tale. There are dozens of sites with the words “massacre and murder” regarding this incident and not much has been said about legal reprisals against terrorists and unlawful partisans. If you the reader has an inquiring mind you can see the other side of some of this story by going online and typing in Oradur Sur Glane, The SS version of the story. And you can make up your own mind about the incident.  There is much to consider. Again these relics are merely things from the turbulent past but they must be preserved for the sake of history. Revisionism is perceived as bringing history into accord with the facts!

We are proud to bring you this awesome grouping of beautiful porcelain pieces and hope you will pour yourself and a companion a couple of nice cups of mocha and think of the past glories and tragedies of the W-SS fighting in a terrible fratricidal war and hope that there would never be another of this magnitude.

PRICE: SOLD

Two Plaques from the Nuremberg Headquarters of the SS (Item SS 35-26)

DESCRIPTION: These two large wooden plaques were taken in 1945 by a GI who sold them only recently. They are from what we are told formally from the dining hall in the barracks of the Nuremberg Headquarter SS kaserne. This building is still there. It was built quite near the grounds where Nuremberg Reichsparteitag (party rallies) were  held each year and it is rumored that within its confines there are still rooms (kept locked) where certain N.S. inspired wall murals are still intact. These two plaques were part of the décor of the room where the SS troopers had their meals. They are certainly decorative and large measuring 10 x 7 ½ inches. They are beautifully made. The SS plaque is a 3 piece construction where the runics are separate wooden cut-outs applied to the shield. The swastika is also cut out of thin veneer wood and applied to the circle within the shield. Of course you will recognize the symbolism.  They are constructed to look like the decals on the sides of the SS helmet. Very dramatic and although they look new because of their immaculate condition they are assuredly period pieces. When our consigner received them he removed the string type hangers off the back and replaced them with picture wire for more stability. Very great looking indeed.

PRICE: SOLD

DESCRIPTION: Here is the official song book for the SA-SS and other “Strassekampfer” of the Party; it is comprised of 63 militant marching and campfire songs.  It was published by the German culture watch (Kultur wacht) in 1933.  Many of the songs are the traditional songs of the SA.  We have had one of these before but in a bit worn condition.  This one is in mint condition.  Inside the front on the 1st page it has the stamp of the SS=Sturm 5/31 Berchtesgaden. This was one of the SS units that guarded the Berghof, Adolf Hitler’s Alpine retreat.

PRICE: $155.00

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