{"title":"German Shoulder Boards","description":"Imperial German \u0026amp; WWI Shoulder Boards, Straps \u0026amp; Epaulets","products":[{"product_id":"germany-shoulder-boards-for-leutnant-in-luftschiffer-bataillione-m1915-feldgrau-with-original-paper","title":"Germany Shoulder Boards for Leutnant in Luftschiffer Bataillione M1915 Feldgrau with original paper","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing the authentic Germany Shoulder Boards Leutnant Feldgrau M1915 Luftschiffer Bataillonne with original packaging tissue, a rare find for collectors and enthusiasts of military history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrafted with precision and attention to detail, these shoulder boards feature a stunning feldgrau color that was commonly used by the German army during World War I. The Leutnant rank symbolizes a lieutenant, making these shoulder boards ideal for reenactments or display purposes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese particular shoulder boards were used by the Luftschiffer Bataillonne, or airship battalion, which was responsible for operating airships during the war. This makes them a unique addition to any military collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat sets these shoulder boards apart is the fact that they come with their original packaging tissue. This adds to their authenticity and demonstrates the care with which they were originally produced and preserved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're looking for an authentic piece of German military history, the Germany Shoulder Boards Leutnant Feldgrau M1915 Luftschiffer Bataillonne with original packaging tissue is the perfect addition to your collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Luftschiffer Bataillon or Airship Battalion was a unit of the German army during World War I that was responsible for operating airships, specifically dirigibles or zeppelins. The battalion was formed in 1913, and during the war, it played a crucial role in reconnaissance, bombing, and naval operations. The airship was a new and innovative technology at the time, and the Luftschiffer Bataillon was at the forefront of its development and deployment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe airships used by the battalion were typically used for reconnaissance purposes, flying over enemy lines to gather intelligence. They were also used for bombing missions, with the aim of damaging or destroying enemy infrastructure and morale. The airships were also used for naval operations, patrolling the seas to spot and engage enemy ships.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Luftschiffer Bataillon saw action in many of the major battles of World War I, including the Battle of the Marne and the Battle of Jutland. However, the use of airships in warfare was not without its risks, and many were lost to accidents, mechanical failures, or enemy fire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite their eventual obsolescence as a military technology, the Luftschiffer Bataillon played an important role in the development of air power and the evolution of military tactics. Today, they remain a fascinating and intriguing part of military history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReferences:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"German Airship Operations in World War I.\" Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/airandspace.si.edu\/stories\/editorial\/german-airship-operations-world-war-i\" target=\"_new\"\u003ehttps:\/\/airandspace.si.edu\/stories\/editorial\/german-airship-operations-world-war-i\u003c\/a\u003e. Accessed 13 Mar. 2023.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"The Airship in World War One.\" Imperial War Museum, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.iwm.org.uk\/history\/the-airship-in-world-war-one\" target=\"_new\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.iwm.org.uk\/history\/the-airship-in-world-war-one\u003c\/a\u003e. Accessed 13 Mar. 2023.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"Luftschiffer Bataillon.\" German War Machine, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.germanwarmachine.com\/army\/heer\/luftschiffer-bataillon\" target=\"_new\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.germanwarmachine.com\/army\/heer\/luftschiffer-bataillon\u003c\/a\u003e. Accessed 13 Mar. 2023.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43852034638063,"sku":"23-583","price":995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/products\/23-583_1.jpg?v=1678741698"},{"product_id":"prussia-shoulder-board-generalfeldmarschall-m1915","title":"Prussian Shoulder Board Generalfeldmarschall M1915","description":"\u003cp\u003ePresented here is an exquisite example of a Prussian Generalfeldmarschall M-1915 subdued shoulder board, measuring 1.5\" x 4.\" The position of the Generalfeldmarschall was the highest rank attainable in the German Army during World War I, and was held by only a select few. This particular shoulder board is believed to have been worn by one of six different Prussian Generalfeldmarschall during the war.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe shoulder board features black and white Prussian chevrons, which are prominently displayed on the subdued silver rope that is enclosed within a border of muted, dark-gold braid. The detailing on the crossed, restrained-silver Generalfeldmarschall batons is particularly noteworthy and impressive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reverse of the shoulder board reveals a sewn-in red felt backing, which is an unusual variation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe overall condition of this shoulder board is excellent, making it a rare and highly desirable piece for collectors of military memorabilia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn conclusion, this Prussian Generalfeldmarschall M-1915 subdued shoulder board is a remarkable piece of history, offering a glimpse into the elite ranks of the German Army during World War I.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts impeccable detailing and excellent condition make it a valuable addition to any military collection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43861749137647,"sku":"23-534","price":1995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-534_1.jpg?v=1757015546"},{"product_id":"wurttemberg-shoulder-boards-for-general-oberst","title":"Württemberg Shoulder Boards for General Oberst","description":"\u003cp\u003eI have a personal fascination with shoulder boards\/epaulettes, particularly those worn by General Officers from states outside of Prussia. I have an exceptional and rare pair of Artillerie General oberst’s shoulder boards from the Kingdom of Württemberg that I would like to present for your consideration. The rank of General oberst was seldom attained within the Imperial German Army, ranking just below a General feldmarschall. During World War I, two General obersts commanded the I. and II. Armees, which were massed on the Western Front after invading France through Belgium. Paul von Hindenburg was also promoted to Generaloberst, commanding the German VIII. Armee before becoming a Generalfeldmarschall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese shoulder boards exhibit alternating rows of silver and gold bullion in the Russian braid-style on the front, with red and black chevrons representing Württemberg's state colors. These colors are also present on the state kokarden for Württemberg’s pickelhauben and kugelhelm. The three brass pips in a triangular formation indicate the rank of General oberst, with the Artillerie’s flaming bomb (grenade) prominently displayed. The reverse of the boards features red felt backings, and the overall condition is excellent. You can see that they are slightly rounded from being worn on a tunic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe identity of the original owner of these shoulder boards is of great interest to anyone who acquires them. We consulted a renowned researcher from the UK who suggests that they may have belonged to Bavaria’s Prinz-Regent Luitpold (1821-1912). However, he cannot be entirely certain due to some differences in the arrangement of the pips. Luitpold was named Regent in 1886 when his nephew, König (Mad) Ludwig II (1845-1886) was removed from office due to mental instability. His regency continued until his death in 1912, when his son, Ludwig, took over as Regent and eventually became König. We believe that these shoulder boards are for Bavaria’s 2. Württembergisches Feldartillerie-Regiment Nr 29, Prinzregent Luitpold von Bayern. This regiment was founded in 1736 and was garrisoned at Ludwigsburg and attached to Württemberg’s XIII. Armeekorps. While this is our best guess, it is highly likely that this was an honorary rank for the man who served as the Regimental Chef for the regiment that was named after him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese shoulder boards are a valuable addition to any collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArtillerie General Oberst's shoulder boards from the Kingdom of Württemberg were a rare and prestigious item in the Imperial German Army, particularly during World War I. These shoulder boards were worn by officers with the rank of Generaloberst, which was the second-highest rank in the army, just below the rank of General Feldmarschall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe shoulder boards were typically made from alternating rows of silver and gold bullion, in the Russian braid-style, with the state colors of Württemberg, red, and black, appearing on the chevrons. The triangular formation of three brass pips indicated the rank of Generaloberst, and the boards also displayed the Artillerie's flaming bomb (grenade) insignia. The boards had red felt backings on the reverse side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese shoulder boards are now considered to be valuable collectors' items. A pair of Artillerie General oberst’s shoulder boards from the Kingdom of Württemberg was sold by a dealer on the militaria website Emedals for over $4,500 in 2020.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43868772139247,"sku":"23-524","price":2195.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-524_1.jpg?v=1757015664"},{"product_id":"prussia-shoulder-boards-generalmajor-m-1915","title":"Prussia Shoulder Boards Generalmajor M 1915","description":"\u003cp\u003eThese shoulder boards are a superb example of Prussian Generalmajor’s M-1915 subdued design, with each measuring 1.5\" x 4.\" The black and white Prussian chevrons are prominently visible on the subdued silver ropes enclosed within their borders of muted, dark-gold braid. These shoulder boards are in excellent condition and have been worn on a feldgrau tunic. The reverses of the shoulder boards reveal slip-on, red-felt backings. As General Officer’s M-1915 shoulder boards are rare to come by, this pair is an excellent addition to any collection. With their lovely patinas, they are as good as one could desire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Prussian Generalmajor's M-1915 shoulder boards were a design of shoulder boards worn by the German General Officers during World War I. These shoulder boards were created in 1915 and were used until the end of the war. They were designed to be more subdued than previous versions, with the black and white Prussian chevrons being visible on the subdued silver ropes enclosed within their borders of muted, dark-gold braid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Generalmajor's rank was one of the lower General Officer ranks in the German military, equivalent to the rank of Brigadier General in the United States military. This rank was held by officers who commanded a brigade, which was typically made up of several battalions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring World War I, the German military underwent significant changes in terms of organization and tactics. The General Officers, including those who wore these shoulder boards, played a crucial role in leading the German forces on the battlefield.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, the Prussian Generalmajor's M-1915 shoulder boards are highly sought-after by collectors of militaria due to their historical significance and rarity. They are an excellent example of the attention to detail and design that went into the uniforms and insignia of the German military during World War I.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43868819063023,"sku":"23-540","price":1095.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-540_1.jpg?v=1757015742"},{"product_id":"prussian-shoulder-boards-for-generalfeldmarschall","title":"Prussian Shoulder Boards for Generalfeldmarschall","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe are thrilled to present one of the most remarkable pairs of shoulder boards we've had the privilege of offering. These shoulder boards are believed to have belonged to a Generalfeldmarschall, dating back to the early stages of World War I, if not prewar. Measuring 11.5\" x 5\", these shoulder boards were meant to be worn on a tunic, as opposed to a larger size that would have been used on a mantle.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe alternating rows of silver and gold bullion ropes on these shoulder boards display extensive tarnishing, indicating their age and authenticity. The black chevrons on the silver ropes indicate that they were used by Prussian Generalfeldmarschall, the German state with the most GFMS during the Great War. Although there were other GFMS appointed from several other German states and royalty from other Central Powers, only six Prussian GFMS served during WWI.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe reverse of the shoulder boards is covered in solid red felt, without any signs of the usual slip-on tabs or the crossed batons of a GFM. Both shoulder boards display mild mothing, with one board having slightly more than the other, as shown in our photographs. Nonetheless, this is not detractive in any way and serves as a testament to their age and authenticity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWe saved the best for last: the crossed batons of a GFM. Each baton is crafted from an impressive silver and featuring an intricate design. These batons make a stunning addition to any collection, and their historical relevance only adds to their significance.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThese shoulder boards offer a glimpse into the life of a high-ranking military officer during a tumultuous time in history. They are a testament to the dedication and sacrifice of the German soldiers who served their country during World War I.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo learn more about the history of German Generalfeldmarschalls, visit this link: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Generalfeldmarschall\" title=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Generalfeldmarschall\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Generalfeldmarschall.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43897917866223,"sku":"23-575","price":3495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/products\/23-574_1.jpg?v=1681335722"},{"product_id":"bavarian-epaulettes-for-major-in-prinz-alfons-1-schweres-reiter-rgt","title":"Bavarian Epaulettes for Major Prinz Alfons 1. Schweres Reiter Rgt","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOnce again our old friend Prinz Alfons (1862-1933) of Bavaria makes an appearance on the pages of Der Rittmeister Militaria. Prinz Alfons was Prinz Adalbert of Bavaria’s second son. Although a House of Wittelsbach member, Prinz Alfons was well down on the Bavarian throne’s successor list.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAfter serving as Prinz Regent for years, Ludwig III was elevated to König (when \"Mad\" Ludwig II died). This meant Kronprinz Rupprecht became the Bavarian heir apparent. Of course, he never became king because the empire fell in 1918. Prinz Alfons joined the Army in 1891 as a major in 1. Schweres-Reiter-Regiment Prinz Karl von Bayern. This regiment was founded in 1814 and garrisoned in the capital of Munich, where it was assigned to the 1. Bavarian ArmeeKorps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1892 Prinz Alfons became the commander and oberst of 1. Schweres-Reiter-Regiment Prinz Karl von Bayern. Ultimately, he was promoted to General der Kavallerie, and served as the 7. Chevaulegers-Regiment Prinz Alfons’ Inhaber (Regimental Chef). This regiment was established in 1905 and named for Prinz Alfons. It was based at Straubing, where it was attached to the III. Bavarian ArmeeKorps. Prinz Alfons was never a front-line military commander, but as a royal he served in an à la Suite capacity. He held no official command during WW I.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis pair of epaulets belonged to Prinz Alfons when he served as a major in 1. Schweres-Reiter-Regiment Prinz Karl von Bayern. They are clearly for this regiment. We can tell by the epaulets’ silver moons. While the epaulets are similar to those of its sister regiment, 2. Schweres Reiter-Regiment Erzherzog Franz Ferdinand von Österreich-Este (founded in 1815 and garrisoned at Landshut), its moons are gilt. The material on the obverse is red. The rank of major is confirmed by the dangling silver trim (ringlets) hanging from its edges, (which was used for the three ranks of major, oberstleutnant, and oberst). Blue thread in the bullion trim also confirms them as Bavarian. These are some of the small details necessary for identifying shoulder boards\/epaulets’ regiments, especially when cyphers or regimental designations are not present. The epaulets’ backing is a matching red.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOverall, they are in very fine condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe shoulder boards are housed in their original storage carton. The carton is quite large in order to properly accommodate these large epaulets. A pedestal in its interior is where they are mounted and secured when they are not in use. The lid of the box has a white label on which is neatly penned \"No II - 19 April 1891.\" This is the date of either the entrance into the regiment, or when they were acquired. The designation \"No II\" was for Prinz Alfons’ valet, to make sure that he assembled the correct regalia for a given uniform. The inside lid of the carton has \"Prinz Alfons von Bayern,\" along with a Wittelsbach Crown and Stole over his name. A large white tag inside the lid proclaims that they come from the Christian Block workshops of Munich. Block (as noted on the label) was an official provider to the royal house.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis is a great set in top condition. It would make a fine addition to any collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43989555445999,"sku":"20-192","price":1750.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/20-192_4.jpg?v=1687815413"},{"product_id":"prussia-pair-of-oberleutnants-epaulettes-for-regiment-bezerkskommando-nr-35","title":"Prussia Pair of Oberleutnant's epaulettes for Regiment Bezerkskommando Nr 35","description":"Discover a rare treasure from Prussian military history with this remarkable pair of Oberleutnant's epaulettes for Regiment Bezerkskommando Nr 35. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Bezerkskommandos, which served as the vital link between reserve districts and recruit depots for incoming army soldiers throughout Germany. District 35 proudly represented Prussia, showcasing the region's esteemed military prowess.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThese exquisite epaulettes feature a gold moon emblem, an iconic symbol synonymous with honor and distinction. Encased within the moon's borders, you'll find a pristine white\/creme-colored fabric facing that adds an elegant touch to this historically significant artifact. Adorned on the facing is a large gilt \"35\" insignia, proudly displaying the regiment's identity, alongside an Oberleutnant's single gilt pip, signifying the rank of a lieutenant.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTurning the epaulettes over, you'll find a luxurious red felt covering the reverse side, providing a striking contrast to the emblem on the front. While some discoloration on the obverse due to age and minor soiling is present, these epaulettes remain in exceptional condition, meticulously preserved to retain their original allure.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTo further enhance their historical authenticity, this remarkable pair of epaulettes comes with the original storage carton, ensuring the utmost protection and maintaining their significance for years to come. The carton includes the original tissue that was thoughtfully placed to safeguard these remarkable epaulets, showcasing the care and reverence bestowed upon such prestigious artifacts.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhether you are an avid collector, a military history enthusiast, or someone captivated by the stories woven into each thread, these Oberleutnant's epaulettes for Regiment Bezerkskommando Nr 35 offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of Prussian military heritage. Unveil the past, embrace the legacy, and celebrate the dedication and bravery of those who once wore these symbols of honor.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eInvest in this extraordinary pair of epaulettes today, and let them serve as a cherished testament to the remarkable history of Bezerkskommandos and the enduring legacy of Prussian military excellence.","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43989571338479,"sku":"23-561","price":395.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-561_2.jpg?v=1687817946"},{"product_id":"saxony-shoulder-boards-for-a-leutnant-air-service-m1915","title":"Saxony Shoulder Boards for a Leutnant Air Service M1915","description":"\u003cp\u003eDelve into history with these exceptional Original Period Saxony Shoulder Boards designed for a Leutnant in the Air Service M1915. These are not modern reproductions; they are authentic artifacts from the past, offering a direct link to a pivotal era in aviation and military history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Features:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGenuine Historical Artifacts\u003c\/strong\u003e: These Original Period Saxony Shoulder Boards are not replicas or reproductions. They are genuine, original pieces that once adorned the uniforms of Leutnants in the Air Service during the M1915 period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTime-Honored Craftsmanship\u003c\/strong\u003e: These shoulder boards showcase the remarkable craftsmanship of the era, reflecting the dedication and precision of the artisans who created them. They are a testament to the quality and attention to detail of the past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHighly Collectible\u003c\/strong\u003e: Owning original period military insignia is a rare privilege for collectors. These shoulder boards hold intrinsic historical value and are sought after by enthusiasts and serious collectors worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistorical Significance\u003c\/strong\u003e: These shoulder boards carry with them the stories of brave aviators who contributed to the early development of aerial warfare during World War I. They are tangible pieces of history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Details:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese Original Period Saxony Shoulder Boards for a Leutnant Air Service M1915 offer more than a glimpse into the past; they provide a direct connection to the brave men and women who served their nations with honor and valor. Each board is a unique piece of history, preserving the legacy of those who took to the skies when aviation was in its infancy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile they bear the marks of time and wear that are expected from original period artifacts, their historical significance remains undiminished. Whether you're a dedicated collector, a passionate historian, or simply someone who appreciates the authenticity and historical value of military memorabilia, these shoulder boards are an unparalleled addition to your collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original period artifacts like these Saxony Shoulder Boards are exceedingly rare. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of history. Add them to your collection today and honor the courage and innovation of the Air Service Leutnants of M1915.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44074078666991,"sku":"23-582","price":595.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-582_1.jpg?v=1694816322"},{"product_id":"original-period-bavaria-shoulder-boards-for-a-major-in-the-air-service-m1915","title":"Original Period Bavaria Shoulder Boards for a Major in the Air Service M1915","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnearth a remarkable piece of aviation history with these Original Period Bavaria Shoulder Boards tailored for a Major in the Air Service during the M1915 era. These shoulder boards are not contemporary reproductions; they are authentic, original artifacts that bear witness to a pivotal chapter in aviation and military heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Features:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGenuine Historical Artifacts\u003c\/strong\u003e: These Original Period Bavaria Shoulder Boards are not modern replicas. They are genuine relics from the past, having adorned the uniforms of Majors in the Air Service during the M1915 period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCraftsmanship of Yesteryears\u003c\/strong\u003e: These shoulder boards exemplify the craftsmanship of a bygone era, reflecting the dedication and meticulousness of artisans from that time. They embody the quality and attention to detail characteristic of historical military regalia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHighly Coveted Collectibles\u003c\/strong\u003e: Owning original period military insignia is a privilege cherished by collectors. These shoulder boards are not only highly collectible but also hold intrinsic historical value, making them sought after by enthusiasts and serious collectors worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistorical Significance\u003c\/strong\u003e: These shoulder boards carry with them the stories of valiant aviators who played vital roles in the early stages of aerial warfare during World War I. They are tangible fragments of history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Details:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese Original Period Bavaria Shoulder Boards for a Major in the Air Service M1915 provide more than just a glimpse into the past; they offer a direct connection to the courageous men and women who served their nations with honor and valor. Each board is a unique testimony to the pioneering spirit of those who took to the skies when aviation was still in its infancy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile they bear the authentic marks of time and usage that are expected from original period artifacts, their historical importance remains undiminished. Whether you are a dedicated collector, a passionate historian, or simply someone who values the authenticity and historical significance of military memorabilia, these shoulder boards are an unparalleled addition to your collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original period artifacts like these Bavaria Shoulder Boards are exceedingly rare and irreplaceable. Seize this extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of history. Add them to your collection today to pay homage to the courage and innovation of Major rank officers in the Air Service during M1915.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44074080076015,"sku":"23-584","price":745.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-584_1.jpg?v=1694817312"},{"product_id":"mecklenburg-schwerin-shoulder-boards-one-year-volunteer-grenadier-regiment-nr-89","title":"Mecklenburg-Schwerin Shoulder Boards OYV Grenadier 89","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eEmbrace a piece of living history with these authentic Mecklenburg-Schwerin shoulder boards designed for a One-Year Volunteer in the legendary Grenadier Regiment Nr. 89. These shoulder boards represent the martial traditions of the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin within the larger tapestry of the Imperial German Army.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Features:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistorical Authenticity\u003c\/strong\u003e: These Mecklenburg-Schwerin shoulder boards are original artifacts from a time when military service was a point of honor. They embody the valor and commitment of One-Year Volunteers who proudly served in the Grenadier Regiment Nr. 89.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCraftsmanship of Yesteryears\u003c\/strong\u003e: These shoulder boards are crafted with meticulous attention to historical detail, preserving the essence of Mecklenburg-Schwerin's military traditions. They serve as a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of that era's military regalia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCollector's Gem\u003c\/strong\u003e: Original period military insignia is a treasure for collectors. These shoulder boards are not only historical artifacts but also highly sought after by enthusiasts and dedicated collectors worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistorical Significance\u003c\/strong\u003e: Carrying with them the legacy of brave soldiers, these shoulder boards are tangible connections to the history and traditions of the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and its contribution to the Imperial German Army.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Details:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese Mecklenburg-Schwerin Shoulder Boards, tailor-made for a One-Year Volunteer in the esteemed Grenadier Regiment Nr. 89, allow you to grasp a piece of a proud military heritage. While they may bear the marks of time and service, these shoulder boards retain their historical significance and are a testament to the valor of those who served.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're an avid collector, a devoted historian, or simply someone who values the rich history encapsulated in military memorabilia, these shoulder boards are an exceptional addition to your collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \"Grenadier Regiment Nr. 89\" was a military unit in Imperial Germany, specifically associated with the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Here's some information about the regiment and the German state:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrenadier Regiment Nr. 89 (Grenadier-Regiment Nr. 89):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Grenadier Regiment Nr. 89 was a part of the larger Imperial German Army during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis regiment was primarily associated with the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, which was one of the smaller German states within the German Empire.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe regiment's history dates back to the 17th century, and it was known for its disciplined and well-trained soldiers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMecklenburg-Schwerin:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMecklenburg-Schwerin was a constituent state of the German Empire, located in the northern part of present-day Germany.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe state had its own military forces, including regiments like the Grenadier Regiment Nr. 89, which were integrated into the larger German Imperial Army.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMecklenburg-Schwerin's military traditions were highly regarded, and its troops served alongside other German states' forces in various conflicts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original period artifacts like these Mecklenburg-Schwerin Shoulder Boards are exceedingly rare and embody the martial traditions of a German state within the Imperial German Army. Don't miss this remarkable opportunity to own a piece of history. Add them to your collection today and honor the commitment and valor of One-Year Volunteers in the Grenadier Regiment Nr. 89 of Mecklenburg-Schwerin.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44074086170863,"sku":"23-581","price":395.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-581_1.jpg?v=1757024432"},{"product_id":"braunschweig-shoulder-boards-one-year-volunteer-husaren-regiment-nr-17","title":"Braunschweig Shoulder Boards - One-Year Volunteer, Husaren Regiment Nr. 17","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eDiscover a piece of living history with these authentic Braunschweig shoulder boards, meticulously crafted for a One-Year Volunteer proudly serving in the legendary Husaren Regiment Nr. 17. These shoulder boards not only symbolize personal commitment but also carry the legacy of Prussian martial traditions within the German Imperial Army.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Features:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistorical Authenticity\u003c\/strong\u003e: These Braunschweig shoulder boards are genuine artifacts from a period when service to one's nation was a matter of honor. They embody the valor and dedication of One-Year Volunteers who served with distinction in the iconic Husaren Regiment Nr. 17, a cavalry unit rooted in Prussian military history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCraftsmanship of Yesteryears\u003c\/strong\u003e: Each pair of shoulder boards is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship of a bygone era, preserving the essence of Prussian cavalry regiments and their distinctive hussar-style uniforms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCollector's Pride\u003c\/strong\u003e: Original period military insignia is a cherished treasure for collectors. These shoulder boards are not just historical artifacts; they are also highly sought after by enthusiasts and dedicated collectors worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistorical Significance\u003c\/strong\u003e: Carrying with them the legacy of brave soldiers, these shoulder boards are tangible links to the history and traditions of Prussian cavalry, which made invaluable contributions to the German Imperial Army.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Details:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese Braunschweig Shoulder Boards, custom-made for a One-Year Volunteer in the renowned Husaren Regiment Nr. 17, allow you to grasp a tangible piece of Prussian and German military history. Though they may bear the marks of time and service, these shoulder boards retain their historical significance and stand as a tribute to the valor of those who served.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're a passionate collector, a dedicated historian, or simply someone who appreciates the rich heritage embodied in military memorabilia, these shoulder boards are an extraordinary addition to your collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal period artifacts like these Braunschweig Shoulder Boards are exceptionally rare and embody the martial traditions of Prussia within the context of the Husaren Regiment Nr. 17. Don't miss this remarkable opportunity to own a piece of history. Add them to your collection today and honor the commitment and valor of One-Year Volunteers in the Husaren Regiment Nr. 17, deeply rooted in Prussian and German military heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \"Husaren Regiment Nr. 17\" was a cavalry regiment in the German Imperial Army, and it had its roots in the Kingdom of Prussia. Here's some information about the regiment and the associated German state:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHusaren Regiment Nr. 17 (Husaren-Regiment Nr. 17):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Husaren Regiment Nr. 17 was a cavalry unit that belonged to the German Imperial Army during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt was originally formed in 1815 and was known for its distinctive hussar-style uniforms, which included distinctive pelisse jackets and shakos adorned with plumes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe regiment was stationed in various locations throughout its history, including time in Germany, Eastern Europe, and France.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHussar regiments, like Husaren Regiment Nr. 17, were known for their mobility and played important roles in reconnaissance, raiding, and screening duties during wartime.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44074089283823,"sku":"23-585","price":545.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-585_1.jpg?v=1757023698"},{"product_id":"historical-grouping-admiral-alfred-von-tirpitz-rare-shoulder-board-and-letter","title":"Historical Grouping: Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz - Rare Shoulder Board and Letter","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlfred von Tirpitz (1849-1930) was a prominent figure in the Kaiserliche Marine (Imperial German Navy) and one of its most well-known admirals. He had a distinguished career that spanned several decades, and his influence on the development and expansion of the German Navy was significant. Below is an overview of his life and career:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEarly Career and Contributions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlfred von Tirpitz entered the German Navy in 1865, during a period when the Prussian Navy was relatively small and inconspicuous.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn the early years of his career, Tirpitz was involved in the development of torpedoes and torpedo boats, showcasing his early interest in naval technology.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHe held various administrative and tactical commands within the Navy and steadily rose through the ranks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePromotions and Key Positions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1895, Tirpitz was promoted to the rank of Konteradmiral.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFour years later, in 1899, he was promoted to Vizeadmiral.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1900, he was ennobled, receiving a noble title.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1903, he achieved the rank of Admiral.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHis most significant promotion came in 1911 when he was elevated to the rank of Großadmiral, which was the highest rank in the German Navy at the time.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRole as Secretary of State:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFrom 1897 to 1916, Tirpitz served as the \"Secretary of State of the Imperial German Naval Office.\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDuring this period, he played a pivotal role in the expansion and modernization of the German Navy, with a particular focus on battleships and cruisers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHis efforts led to a naval arms race with the United Kingdom, as both nations sought to outbuild each other's navies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eU-Boat Development and Challenges:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTirpitz was also responsible for the development of a fleet of U-boats (submarines) in the German Navy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHe believed that submarines would be effective against the larger ships of the Royal Navy, especially in the context of a naval blockade.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHowever, the use of submarines in unrestricted warfare proved controversial and played a significant role in drawing the United States into World War I.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRetirement and Later Involvement:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn 1916, Kaiser Wilhelm withdrew his support for Tirpitz, leading to Tirpitz's retirement the same year.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn the years following his retirement, Tirpitz became involved in politics and served in the Reichstag during the 1920s.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHe remained an influential figure in German military and public life until the late 1920s.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGroßadmiral Rank:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe rank of Großadmiral was introduced in 1901, and it was equivalent to the Army's rank of Generalfeldmarschall.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVon Tirpitz held this rank from 1911 onwards, making him one of only six individuals to achieve this distinction.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHis rank differed slightly from the other Großadmirals, as he did not receive the patent document for the rank. Instead, he displayed four pips on his shoulder boards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe grouping you described, including a shoulder board and a letter from Alfred von Tirpitz, provides a unique insight into the life and career of this influential naval officer. The shoulder board's configuration with four pips distinguishes it as a representation of von Tirpitz's rank as Großadmiral. The letter, dated 2 July 1905, offers congratulations to Friedrich von Ingenohl on his appointment, shedding light on the relationships and promotions within the Imperial German Navy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis historical grouping is a valuable piece of naval history and a testament to the significance of Alfred von Tirpitz's contributions to the Kaiserliche Marine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHistorical Grouping: Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz - Rare Shoulder Board and Letter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIntroduction:\u003c\/strong\u003e Explore a remarkable piece of naval history with this extraordinary grouping, which includes a distinctive shoulder board and a handwritten letter from Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz (1849-1930). This unique collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and career of one of the Kaiserliche Marine's most influential admirals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Features:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAuthentic Shoulder Board:\u003c\/strong\u003e The centerpiece of this grouping is an authentic naval shoulder board from Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz's uniform. What sets it apart is the configuration of four gilt-toned pips, signaling von Tirpitz's rank as Großadmiral, a distinction held by only a select few in the German Navy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHistorical Context:\u003c\/strong\u003e The shoulder board's unique design and rank configuration are not only visually striking but also historically significant. It reflects von Tirpitz's pivotal role in the development and expansion of the Imperial German Navy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHandwritten Letter:\u003c\/strong\u003e Accompanying the shoulder board is a handwritten letter dated 2 July 1905, penned by Admiral von Tirpitz himself. The letter congratulates Friedrich von Ingenohl on his appointment as Kaiser Wilhelm II's Flügeladjutant. This document sheds light on the relationships and promotions within the Imperial German Navy during a critical period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Details:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eShoulder Board:\u003c\/strong\u003e This naval shoulder board measures 1 7\/8\" x 4 3\/16\" and features four gilt-toned pips on the obverse. It is of the slip-on variety, appropriate for a naval officer's uniform. The navy-blue backing material is consistent with the color expected for naval shoulder boards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHandwritten Letter:\u003c\/strong\u003e The letter measures 9 5\/8\" by 7 3\/4\" when fully unfolded. It has been preserved remarkably well over more than a century and provides a personal glimpse into the relationships and career developments within the Imperial German Navy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHistorical Significance:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAdmiral Alfred von Tirpitz played a pivotal role in the expansion and modernization of the German Navy, a period marked by naval arms races and significant technological advancements. His rank as Großadmiral, held without a patent, sets him apart as a key figure in German naval history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNote:\u003c\/strong\u003e This grouping is a unique and historically important collection that offers collectors and history enthusiasts an opportunity to own a tangible piece of naval history. It honors the legacy of Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz and his profound influence on the Kaiserliche Marine.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44074105045231,"sku":"23-562","price":3495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-562_1.jpg?v=1694821575"},{"product_id":"single-epaulet-for-general-der-infanterie-infanterie-regiment-nr-122-wurttemberg","title":"Single Epaulet for General der Infanterie - Infanterie-Regiment Nr 122 Württemberg","description":"\u003cp\u003eOwn a piece of military history with this exquisite single epaulet from Infanterie-Regiment Nr 122, a unit with a storied legacy dating back to 1806. This epaulet was worn by a General der Infanterie, likely of noble or royal descent, serving as the Regimental Chef of Füsilier-Regiment Kaiser Franz Joseph von Österreich, König von Ungarn (4. Württembergisches) Nr 122, predominantly stationed at Heilbronn with a battalion at Mergentheim.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistinguished Design\u003c\/strong\u003e: Features bundled ringlets exclusive to general officers, with a tarnished silver crescent that suggests genuine silver—adding a touch of authenticity and age.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRegal Embellishments\u003c\/strong\u003e: Adorned with a royal crown, the royal cypher of King Wilhelm, and two gilt pips signifying the rank of General der Infanterie, set against a textured silver background.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRegimental Pride\u003c\/strong\u003e: The epaulet proudly displays the number \"122\" in gilt, reflecting its regimental affiliation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e: Despite some wear, such as ringlets pulling away (not visible from the top), a small moth nip, and some staining likely from water damage, the piece remains a remarkable collector's item with its red felt lining intact.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistorical Link:\u003c\/strong\u003e For more about the historical significance of military epaulets and their role in denoting rank and regiment, explore \u003ca rel=\"noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.example.com\/\" target=\"_new\"\u003ethis detailed examination of military insignia\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eModern Cultural Connection:\u003c\/strong\u003e As military antiques continue to captivate collectors and historians, the fascination with such artifacts can be seen in exhibitions and collector's circles online. Engage with a community of fellow enthusiasts and explore more about the preservation of such historical items \u003ca rel=\"noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.example.com\/\" target=\"_new\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45171963953391,"sku":"23-02","price":3495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-02_1.jpg?v=1716324634"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-army-shoulder-straps-enlisted-nco-artillery-pair","title":"Imperial German Army Shoulder Straps – Enlisted\/NCO – Artillery (Pair)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is a matched pair of Imperial German Army enlisted or non-commissioned officer (NCO) shoulder straps, most likely for an artillery unit, as indicated by the distinctive red piping. The chevron-patterned silver braid adds a touch of refinement while remaining consistent with enlisted or NCO status. The black accents are typical of certain specialized regiments, providing additional intrigue for collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reverse side is lined with red wool, showing moderate wear consistent with age and use. There are some small moth nips, a common issue with wool-backed insignia from this period, but overall the straps remain in solid, collectible condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese shoulder straps would have been worn on the tunic of a German soldier during the early 20th century, most likely World War I. Their simplicity and durability reflect the standard-issue design for enlisted personnel while still showcasing a regimental identity through their color and style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFront: Excellent with no significant damage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBack: Minor moth nips on the wool lining.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a wonderful opportunity to own a piece of German military history. Whether displayed individually or as part of a larger uniform collection, these shoulder straps represent an important aspect of enlisted service during the Imperial German era.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46178064728303,"sku":"23-03","price":95.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-03_1.jpg?v=1736653155"},{"product_id":"imperial-russian-officer-s-epaulette-with-crowned-monogram-a-likely-tsar-alexander-ii-or-iii","title":"Imperial Russian Officer’s Epaulettes with Crowned Monogram “A” – Likely Tsar Alexander II or III","description":"\u003cp\u003eMagnificent Imperial Russian officer’s epaulettes a striking example of ceremonial military regalia from the late 19th to early 20th century. The  intricate design and craftsmanship reflect the grandeur and prestige of the Russian Empire during the reigns of Tsar Alexander II or Alexander III.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDesign Features:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrowned Monogram \"A\":\u003c\/strong\u003e The focal point of the epaulette is the gold-tone monogram “A,” surmounted by an Imperial Russian crown. This monogram likely corresponds to one of the two Tsars who ruled during the 19th century – Alexander II (1855-1881) or Alexander III (1881-1894).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStarburst Motifs:\u003c\/strong\u003e On either side of the monogram are meticulously crafted starburst designs, a hallmark of Russian military decoration, symbolizing the officer’s rank and association with the Imperial court.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBold Oval Border:\u003c\/strong\u003e A gilded oval border frames the central design, enhancing the epaulette’s elegance and visual appeal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSilver and Yellow Accents:\u003c\/strong\u003e The epaulette features silver braiding at the attachment point and a yellow velvet field, both of which are indicative of the high rank and ceremonial use of this piece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials and Construction:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe epaulettes are constructed with a combination of gilded metal, yellow velvet, and silver-thread accents, underscoring the luxurious materials used for officers serving the Tsar. The reverse side is lined with red felt, a common feature of Russian military epaulettes, providing contrast and durability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistorical Context:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImperial Russian officers wore epaulettes not only as a functional component of their uniforms but also as symbols of their loyalty and service to the Tsar. The design of this piece suggests it may have been part of a formal or parade uniform, reserved for high-ranking officers with direct ties to the Imperial court. The inclusion of the crowned monogram emphasizes the Tsar’s authority and the wearer’s connection to the throne.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe epaulettes are in \u003cstrong\u003eexcellent condition\u003c\/strong\u003e for its age, with minor wear consistent with its historical use. The yellow velvet remains vibrant, and the metal detailing retains much of its original luster. The reverse red felt shows minimal wear, highlighting the care this piece has received over the years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis item likely originates from the late 19th century, during the height of the Russian Empire under Alexander II or Alexander III. While its specific regiment or owner is unknown, its design aligns with officer’s regalia from this era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDisplay Suggestions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis epaulette is a superb collectible for enthusiasts of Imperial Russian history or military regalia. It would make an exceptional addition to a collection or a compelling display piece, whether mounted in a shadow box or presented alongside other Imperial Russian artifacts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCollectors’ Question:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eCould this epaulette be tied directly to a specific regiment or event in the reigns of Alexander II or III? Researching its exact origins may reveal even more historical significance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46184921497839,"sku":"23-04","price":875.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-04_1.jpg?v=1736910615"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-general-s-collar-tabs-silver-bullion-with-red-piping","title":"Imperial German Musician’s Swallow’s Nests (Silver Bullion with Red Piping)","description":"\u003cp data-end=\"777\" data-start=\"201\"\u003eThese \u003cstrong data-end=\"253\" data-start=\"207\"\u003eImperial German musician’s swallow’s nests\u003c\/strong\u003e were worn on the \u003cstrong data-end=\"284\" data-start=\"271\"\u003eshoulders\u003c\/strong\u003e of military musicians, distinguishing them from standard enlisted or officer ranks. The \u003cstrong data-end=\"402\" data-start=\"373\"\u003esilver bullion embroidery\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"421\" data-start=\"407\"\u003ered piping\u003c\/strong\u003e suggest use within an elite regiment, as musicians often wore elaborate insignia to make them easily recognizable on the field. Swallow’s nests were affixed to the shoulder seams of the tunic and were an integral part of the uniform for parade and ceremonial occasions. These are in \u003cstrong data-end=\"730\" data-start=\"705\"\u003eexceptional condition\u003c\/strong\u003e, retaining their intricate design and color.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46213046010095,"sku":"23-06","price":875.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-06_1.jpg?v=1738167655"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-navy-grossadmiral-hans-von-koester-s-personal-grouping-a-museum-worthy-ensemble","title":"Imperial German Navy Großadmiral Hans von Koester’s Personal Grouping – A Museum-Worthy Ensemble","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis \u003cstrong\u003eexceptional grouping\u003c\/strong\u003e of \u003cstrong\u003eGroßadmiral Hans von Koester’s\u003c\/strong\u003e personal effects offers an unparalleled glimpse into the highest rank of the \u003cstrong\u003eKaiserliche Marine (Imperial German Navy)\u003c\/strong\u003e. Each piece within this set is \u003cstrong\u003erich in history, prestige, and provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e, directly connected to \u003cstrong\u003eone of Germany’s most influential naval leaders\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrouping Overview:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis historically significant set includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1. Imperial German Navy Grand Admiral’s Bicorne (Zweispitz)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA striking \u003cstrong\u003eblack velvet bicorne\u003c\/strong\u003e, worn by the elite \u003cstrong\u003eGroßadmirals\u003c\/strong\u003e of the Imperial German Navy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeatures \u003cstrong\u003eintricate gold bullion oak leaf embroidery\u003c\/strong\u003e, symbolic of \u003cstrong\u003ehigh-ranking naval command\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProminent \u003cstrong\u003egold bullion braiding and Grand Admiral’s buttons\u003c\/strong\u003e, each displaying the \u003cstrong\u003eimperial crown and anchor motif\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInterior lined in fine silk\u003c\/strong\u003e, with \u003cstrong\u003e“v. Koester”\u003c\/strong\u003e monogrammed in gold lettering, confirming personal ownership.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis exact style of bicorne is visible in \u003cstrong\u003eperiod photographs of von Koester\u003c\/strong\u003e, further solidifying its provenance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2. Imperial German Navy Grand Admiral’s Dress Epaulettes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMagnificent gold bullion epaulettes\u003c\/strong\u003e, denoting the highest naval rank in the \u003cstrong\u003eKaiserliche Marine\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEach epaulette showcases a \u003cstrong\u003edetailed anchor and imperial crown\u003c\/strong\u003e, further reinforcing its status.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003efabric backing\u003c\/strong\u003e contrasts beautifully with the bullion, adding to its regal aesthetic.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThese \u003cstrong\u003eceremonial epaulettes\u003c\/strong\u003e were worn \u003cstrong\u003eduring formal functions, parades, and high-level naval events\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3. Grand Admiral’s Cuff Rank Insignia\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA pair of \u003cstrong\u003elarge, gold bullion cuff rank insignia\u003c\/strong\u003e, specifically denoting the rank of \u003cstrong\u003eGroßadmiral\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeatures \u003cstrong\u003ethick black piping\u003c\/strong\u003e, a distinct characteristic reserved only for the highest naval command.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThese insignia would have been \u003cstrong\u003esewn onto the full-dress uniform of von Koester\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4. Imperial German Navy Presentation Silver Plate – Dated March 22, 1897\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn \u003cstrong\u003eornate silver presentation plate\u003c\/strong\u003e engraved with the \u003cstrong\u003eKaiserliche Marine (Imperial Navy) flag\u003c\/strong\u003e at its center.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSurrounding dedication inscription\u003c\/strong\u003e translates to:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e“From the Officers of the Baltic Naval Station to our highly esteemed Station Chief, Admiral H. Koester – 22 March 1897.”\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003epresentation date suggests this was a commemorative gift\u003c\/strong\u003e, likely honoring von Koester for \u003cstrong\u003ehis leadership of the Baltic Naval Station\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eElaborate decorative border\u003c\/strong\u003e adds to the prestige of this significant piece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition shows appropriate aging and patina\u003c\/strong\u003e, confirming its \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal silver composition and authenticity\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e5. Personal Storage and Transport Chest – Engraved with \"V. KOESTER\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003eheavy black leather transport chest\u003c\/strong\u003e, fitted with brass locks and clasps.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBrass nameplate engraved with \"V. KOESTER\"\u003c\/strong\u003e, confirming its ownership.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAged \u003cstrong\u003etravel labels and naval transport markings\u003c\/strong\u003e indicate extensive use within the \u003cstrong\u003eImperial German Navy\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemarkably, the \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal key is still present\u003c\/strong\u003e, a rare feature in such historic artifacts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis chest likely \u003cstrong\u003estored von Koester’s dress uniform, regalia, and personal effects\u003c\/strong\u003e during naval voyages.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e6. Period 1914 Großadmiral Hans von Koester Commemorative Postcard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003ecolorized postcard from 1914\u003c\/strong\u003e, celebrating von Koester’s \u003cstrong\u003e70th birthday\u003c\/strong\u003e and his tenure as \u003cstrong\u003ePresident of the German Naval Association (Deutschen Flotten-Vereins)\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDepicts von Koester in full dress uniform\u003c\/strong\u003e, wearing \u003cstrong\u003ethe exact same bicorne and epaulettes included in this grouping\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvides \u003cstrong\u003estrong photographic evidence of the authenticity and connection of these items to von Koester\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e7. Imperial German Navy Grand Admiral’s Cap Badge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003erare embroidered Imperial crown insignia\u003c\/strong\u003e, worn on a \u003cstrong\u003eGrand Admiral’s visor cap\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeatures \u003cstrong\u003egold bullion detailing and metallic thread accents\u003c\/strong\u003e, crafted for \u003cstrong\u003eceremonial and dress occasions\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFurther \u003cstrong\u003ecements this grouping as an elite collection of Großadmiral von Koester’s personal items\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGroßadmiral \u003cstrong\u003eHans von Koester (1844–1928)\u003c\/strong\u003e was one of the most \u003cstrong\u003edistinguished naval officers\u003c\/strong\u003e in Imperial Germany. He played a pivotal role in the \u003cstrong\u003edevelopment and modernization of the Kaiserliche Marine\u003c\/strong\u003e, overseeing \u003cstrong\u003efleet expansion\u003c\/strong\u003e and acting as an \u003cstrong\u003eadvisor to Kaiser Wilhelm II\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn \u003cstrong\u003e1897\u003c\/strong\u003e, von Koester was \u003cstrong\u003eStation Chief of the Baltic Naval Station\u003c\/strong\u003e, which aligns with the \u003cstrong\u003einscription on the silver plate\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHe was \u003cstrong\u003eelevated to the rank of Großadmiral in 1905\u003c\/strong\u003e, making him only the \u003cstrong\u003esecond person in Imperial Germany to hold the title\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLater, he \u003cstrong\u003ebecame President of the German Naval Association\u003c\/strong\u003e, advocating for naval supremacy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition \u0026amp; Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEach piece in this grouping \u003cstrong\u003eremains in remarkable condition\u003c\/strong\u003e, with \u003cstrong\u003eauthentic aging and patina\u003c\/strong\u003e expected for items of this era.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003epresence of von Koester’s name on multiple artifacts\u003c\/strong\u003e, including \u003cstrong\u003ethe bicorne lining, storage chest, and silver plate\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003edefinitively links this set to him\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eItems such as the \u003cstrong\u003ebicorne, epaulettes, and rank insignia\u003c\/strong\u003e match those worn by von Koester in \u003cstrong\u003econtemporary photographs\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003esilver plate’s date and inscription\u003c\/strong\u003e confirm that this was a \u003cstrong\u003egift of recognition from the officers under his command in the Baltic Naval Station\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an \u003cstrong\u003eexceptional, museum-quality grouping\u003c\/strong\u003e of \u003cstrong\u003eGrand Admiral Hans von Koester’s personal effects\u003c\/strong\u003e, offering \u003cstrong\u003ea rare glimpse into the ceremonial regalia of Imperial Germany’s highest naval rank\u003c\/strong\u003e. The \u003cstrong\u003eprovenance, completeness, and connection to period photographs\u003c\/strong\u003e make this a \u003cstrong\u003ehistorically invaluable ensemble for serious collectors, museums, or institutions focused on naval history\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional Historical Context \u0026amp; Discoveries\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVon Koester’s Role in the Baltic Fleet (1897)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003edate on the presentation silver plate (March 22, 1897)\u003c\/strong\u003e coincides with von Koester’s tenure as \u003cstrong\u003eChief of the Baltic Naval Station\u003c\/strong\u003e (\u003cem\u003eMarinestation der Ostsee\u003c\/em\u003e).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis was a \u003cstrong\u003ekey position\u003c\/strong\u003e within the Kaiserliche Marine, as the \u003cstrong\u003eBaltic Fleet\u003c\/strong\u003e was responsible for \u003cstrong\u003edefending Germany’s eastern coastline and naval infrastructure\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis plate was likely presented as \u003cstrong\u003ea farewell gift\u003c\/strong\u003e, commemorating his \u003cstrong\u003eservice before moving on to a higher command\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRare Großadmiral Artifacts\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003erank of Großadmiral (Grand Admiral) was only held by five individuals\u003c\/strong\u003e in the entire history of the \u003cstrong\u003eImperial German Navy\u003c\/strong\u003e:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHans von Koester (1905)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlfred von Tirpitz (1911, but never wore the uniform)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHenning von Holtzendorff (1918)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrince Heinrich of Prussia (1909)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKaiser Wilhelm II (1899, honorary)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSince \u003cstrong\u003eonly a handful of men ever held this rank\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eany regalia associated with a Großadmiral is exceptionally rare\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003ecombination of the bicorne, epaulettes, and cuff insignia\u003c\/strong\u003e makes this \u003cstrong\u003eone of the most complete Grand Admiral sets known\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVon Koester’s Personal Connection to the German Naval Association\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e1914 commemorative postcard celebrating his 70th birthday\u003c\/strong\u003e highlights his \u003cstrong\u003eprestigious post-retirement role as President of the German Naval Association (Deutschen Flotten-Vereins)\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis organization was \u003cstrong\u003ecritical in promoting German naval expansion and public support for the Imperial Navy\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHis \u003cstrong\u003elong-standing relationship with the German naval elite\u003c\/strong\u003e adds \u003cstrong\u003efurther prestige to this grouping\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Bicorne \u0026amp; Cap Badge – A Status Symbol\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eGrand Admiral’s bicorne (Zweispitz)\u003c\/strong\u003e was an \u003cstrong\u003eiconic element of ceremonial naval uniforms\u003c\/strong\u003e, modeled after traditional \u003cstrong\u003eEuropean admiralty styles\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003ecap badge with the Imperial Crown\u003c\/strong\u003e was a \u003cstrong\u003ehighly distinctive insignia\u003c\/strong\u003e, designed to \u003cstrong\u003eimmediately signal the wearer's elite status\u003c\/strong\u003e within the military hierarchy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuch insignia were \u003cstrong\u003enot standard issue but specially made for a Grand Admiral\u003c\/strong\u003e, making them \u003cstrong\u003ecustom, one-of-a-kind items\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSurviving Von Koester Artifacts \u0026amp; Comparison to Other Collections\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThere are \u003cstrong\u003every few surviving items belonging to Großadmiral von Koester\u003c\/strong\u003e, especially those directly traceable to him.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSome examples of von Koester’s belongings reside in major German naval museums\u003c\/strong\u003e, but \u003cstrong\u003eprivate collectors have rarely had access to such a complete set\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003epresence of his name inside the bicorne and engraved on the storage chest\u003c\/strong\u003e provides \u003cstrong\u003eunquestionable provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e, which \u003cstrong\u003esets this grouping apart from other general Imperial German Navy collectibles\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Importance of the Storage Chest\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003epersonalized travel chest\u003c\/strong\u003e suggests \u003cstrong\u003ethis grouping stayed together throughout von Koester’s service\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOfficers of this rank often had \u003cstrong\u003ecustom cases for their dress uniforms and insignia\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe fact that the key remains with the chest is extremely rare\u003c\/strong\u003e, as many of these were \u003cstrong\u003elost or replaced over time\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConnection to Kaiser Wilhelm II\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVon Koester was \u003cstrong\u003ea close confidant and advisor to Kaiser Wilhelm II\u003c\/strong\u003e, the architect of Germany’s \u003cstrong\u003enaval arms race against Britain\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eImperial German Navy’s shift toward global power projection\u003c\/strong\u003e was, in part, driven by men like von Koester, \u003cstrong\u003ewho commanded both respect and influence\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOwning artifacts from this period \u003cstrong\u003eties directly into the broader story of Germany’s pre-WWI naval ambitions\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition \u0026amp; Display Considerations\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003elevel of preservation across these artifacts is remarkable\u003c\/strong\u003e, with the \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal bullion embroidery and insignia still intact\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollectors and museum curators would find this set highly desirable for a formal display\u003c\/strong\u003e, as it represents \u003cstrong\u003ethe pinnacle of Imperial German naval leadership\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003ehigh-quality display case or mannequin with period-accurate uniform components\u003c\/strong\u003e could further \u003cstrong\u003eenhance its presentation\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46213562466543,"sku":"15-16","price":29995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/15-16_2.jpg?v=1738184934"},{"product_id":"boxed-pair-of-imperial-german-officer-epaulettes-9th-regiment-marked-pristine-yellow-wool-backing","title":"Boxed Pair of Imperial German Officer Epaulettes – 9th Regiment Marked – Pristine Yellow Wool Backing","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"303\" data-end=\"710\" class=\"\"\u003eThis pristine and complete set of \u003cstrong data-start=\"337\" data-end=\"377\"\u003eImperial German officer’s epaulettes\u003c\/strong\u003e is an exceptional example of pre-World War I militaria, featuring a matching pair marked with the numeral \u003cstrong data-start=\"484\" data-end=\"489\"\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e, denoting the \u003cstrong data-start=\"504\" data-end=\"520\"\u003e2nd Regiment\u003c\/strong\u003e. Housed in its \u003cstrong data-start=\"536\" data-end=\"592\"\u003eoriginal heart-shaped pressed-cardboard storage case\u003c\/strong\u003e, this rare find speaks volumes about both officer class distinction and presentation standards of the Kaiserzeit era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-start=\"712\" data-end=\"731\" class=\"\"\u003eItem Features:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"732\" data-end=\"1452\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"732\" data-end=\"920\" class=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"734\" data-end=\"920\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"734\" data-end=\"751\"\u003eConstruction:\u003c\/strong\u003e Thick yellow wool backing—indicative of cavalry or light horse artillery—paired with heavy silver-toned crescent-shaped guards made of pressed aluminum or tombak alloy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"921\" data-end=\"1064\" class=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"923\" data-end=\"1064\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"923\" data-end=\"946\"\u003eRegimental Marking:\u003c\/strong\u003e Both epaulettes are affixed with domed silver numeral “2” buttons, finely embossed with the proper period font style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1065\" data-end=\"1201\" class=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1067\" data-end=\"1201\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1067\" data-end=\"1076\"\u003eTrim:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original black-and-white twisted bullion cord remains intact along the inner neck edge—a detail specific to officer’s issue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1202\" data-end=\"1452\" class=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1204\" data-end=\"1452\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1204\" data-end=\"1218\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Superb preservation overall. There is \u003cstrong data-start=\"1257\" data-end=\"1282\"\u003eno mothing or fraying\u003c\/strong\u003e to the yellow felt. Light toning to the metal, consistent with age. The interior of the case shows expected minor edge wear, but the shape is strong and entirely intact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-start=\"1454\" data-end=\"1478\" class=\"\"\u003eHistorical Context:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1479\" data-end=\"1916\" class=\"\"\u003eDuring the late Imperial period, officers’ epaulettes not only denoted regiment and rank but also reflected the prestige and discipline expected of the officer corps. The 2nd Regiment (likely \u003cstrong data-start=\"1671\" data-end=\"1699\"\u003e2. Garde-Regiment zu Fuß\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong data-start=\"1703\" data-end=\"1725\"\u003e2nd Uhlan Regiment\u003c\/strong\u003e, depending on branch color) held an elite position in the Prussian order of battle. The yellow backing is often associated with \u003cstrong data-start=\"1854\" data-end=\"1875\"\u003ecavalry regiments\u003c\/strong\u003e, further supporting this interpretation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-start=\"1918\" data-end=\"1950\" class=\"\"\u003eDisplay \u0026amp; Collector Appeal:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1951\" data-end=\"2309\" class=\"\"\u003eThis set is museum-worthy in both condition and completeness. Whether you collect by regiment, specialize in German officer uniforms, or are assembling a display for an Imperial cavalry officer, these epaulettes will immediately draw attention. The original case significantly enhances both provenance and value—examples with the box are increasingly scarce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-start=\"2311\" data-end=\"2326\" class=\"\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2327\" data-end=\"2436\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2327\" data-end=\"2357\" class=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2329\" data-end=\"2357\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2329\" data-end=\"2344\"\u003eEpaulettes:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent+\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2358\" data-end=\"2436\" class=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2360\" data-end=\"2436\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2360\" data-end=\"2368\"\u003eBox:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very good, with minor surface wear consistent with storage and age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2586\" data-end=\"2705\" class=\"\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46353807638767,"sku":"23-05","price":365.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-05_2_0de38058-8714-4b45-94ff-b1a3d84550ac.jpg?v=1743190634"},{"product_id":"bavarian-officer-s-shoulder-board-with-crossed-cannon-for-artillery-regiment","title":"Bavarian officer’s shoulder board with crossed cannon for artillery regiment","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"492\" data-end=\"956\"\u003eThis is a \u003cstrong data-start=\"539\" data-end=\"583\"\u003esingle Bavarian officer’s shoulder board\u003c\/strong\u003e for the Imperial German Army, most likely dating from the late 19th century to the early World War I period. The piece is constructed from \u003cstrong data-start=\"723\" data-end=\"758\"\u003einterwoven silver bullion cords\u003c\/strong\u003e, accented by visible \u003cstrong data-start=\"780\" data-end=\"803\"\u003eblue thread strands\u003c\/strong\u003e braided into the weave—a hallmark distinction of \u003cstrong data-start=\"853\" data-end=\"882\"\u003eBavarian officer insignia\u003c\/strong\u003e, which diverged from the purely silver or silver\/gilt Prussian standard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"958\" data-end=\"1336\"\u003eMounted atop the bullion is a finely struck pair of \u003cstrong data-start=\"1010\" data-end=\"1039\"\u003ecrossed artillery cannons\u003c\/strong\u003e in silvered brass, denoting service in the \u003cstrong data-start=\"1083\" data-end=\"1122\"\u003eBayerisches Feldartillerie-Regiment\u003c\/strong\u003e or a related Bavarian artillery formation. The cannon barrels are deeply detailed with ringed muzzles, engraved bands, and rifling—elements typically reserved for higher-quality, privately tailored officer boards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1338\" data-end=\"1894\"\u003eThe reverse is covered in \u003cstrong data-start=\"1364\" data-end=\"1392\"\u003evivid crimson red velvet\u003c\/strong\u003e, signaling artillery service, and features a matching red velvet tongue stitched to the backing for uniform attachment. Close inspection shows a single mounting hole at the tip and two machine-sewn reinforcement lines down the tongue—a pattern consistent with custom parade boards. The velvet edges are neatly finished with gilt braid piping, framing the red facing fabric. The velvet appears hand-applied, with some minor fraying and one puncture near the slit, likely from long-term wear or storage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1896\" data-end=\"2274\"\u003eNotably, the bullion exhibits a pronounced patina across both the silver and the gilded threads, and fine wear reveals intermittent hints of greenish oxidation, a natural result of the copper content in metallic thread exposed to moisture over time. The blue threads remain visible yet subtle, tucked within the lower plaits and highlighted under magnification or side lighting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2276\" data-end=\"2683\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2276\" data-end=\"2290\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2290\" data-end=\"2293\"\u003eCondition: Very good. The bullion cords are intact and tightly woven, with no unraveling. Patina is even, with rich depth across the surface. The cannon insignia shows age toning but no deformation or looseness. The red velvet reverse is complete, retaining strong color with only minor wear to the tongue and one small pinhole. This piece remains structurally sound and highly displayable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2685\" data-end=\"3182\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2685\" data-end=\"2708\"\u003eHistorical Context:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2708\" data-end=\"2711\"\u003eThe Kingdom of Bavaria maintained a \u003cstrong data-start=\"2747\" data-end=\"2784\"\u003esemi-autonomous military identity\u003c\/strong\u003e within the German Empire from 1871 until the empire’s dissolution in 1918. While Bavarian units wore broadly similar styles to their Prussian counterparts, they incorporated distinctive features such as \u003cstrong data-start=\"2988\" data-end=\"3032\"\u003elight blue piping, blue-threaded bullion\u003c\/strong\u003e, and locally issued medals. Artillery units, vital to both home defense and field operations, were especially prominent in Bavaria’s military makeup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3184\" data-end=\"3642\"\u003eOfficers from Bavarian artillery regiments often held strong regional allegiances and served with distinction on multiple fronts in World War I. This shoulder board, with its combination of blue-braided bullion and crossed cannon device, would have been worn on a \u003cstrong data-start=\"3448\" data-end=\"3462\"\u003eWaffenrock\u003c\/strong\u003e or full-dress tunic, typically on the right shoulder during ceremonial or peacetime duties, or during early-war mobilizations before the shift to simplified \u003cstrong data-start=\"3620\" data-end=\"3632\"\u003efeldgrau\u003c\/strong\u003e insignia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3644\" data-end=\"4015\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3644\" data-end=\"3668\"\u003eDisplay Suggestions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"3668\" data-end=\"3671\"\u003eThis Bavarian officer’s board would display beautifully alongside a \u003cstrong data-start=\"3739\" data-end=\"3773\"\u003eBavarian artillery pickelhaube\u003c\/strong\u003e, officer’s tunic, or a collection of Bavarian-issued medals and decorations. Its blue-threaded bullion offers a rare variation within Imperial shoulder boards and makes it a standout piece for focused collectors of German regional militaria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4017\" data-end=\"4248\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4017\" data-end=\"4032\"\u003eProvenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"4032\" data-end=\"4035\"\u003eAcquired from a private European collection specializing in regional German military insignia. No maker's mark is visible, but style and materials are consistent with Munich-based military tailors circa 1895–1914.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46476129665263,"sku":"23-01","price":195.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-01_1.jpg?v=1747958291"},{"product_id":"bavarian-government-official-s-shoulder-boards-pair","title":"Bavarian Government Official’s Shoulder Boards (Pair)","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"121\" data-end=\"420\"\u003eThis is a fine matched pair of Bavarian government official’s shoulder boards, dating from the Imperial German period. Unlike military officer epaulettes, these represent high-ranking civil service officials in the Kingdom of Bavaria, which maintained a distinct identity within the German Empire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"422\" data-end=\"883\"\u003eThe boards are constructed of heavy interwoven silver bullion cord, stitched over a stiff core and finished with dark blue wool backing. Affixed to each is a gilt crown-topped Bavarian state eagle shield device, indicating Bavarian administrative authority, along with a gilt rank pip in the form of a rosette. The combination suggests a senior official posting—likely within the judicial, administrative, or transportation branches of Bavarian state service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"885\" data-end=\"1133\"\u003eCondition is very good, with light age toning to the bullion cords and minor oxidation to the gilt devices. Stitching remains intact, and the blue wool underlay shows only slight wear. Both boards are uniform and unquestionably original as a set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1135\" data-end=\"1421\"\u003eThese insignia reflect the duality of Imperial Germany, where each kingdom preserved its own state apparatus alongside service to the Kaiser. Bavaria in particular was fiercely protective of its sovereignty, making such pieces highly desirable to collectors of state-specific regalia.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810037911791,"sku":"SKU 23-551 XFQ","price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-551XFQ_1.jpg?v=1756843223"},{"product_id":"bavarian-major-s-shoulder-boards-field-artillery-regiment-nr-8-pair","title":"Bavarian Major’s Shoulder Boards – Field Artillery Regiment Nr. 8 (Pair)","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"315\" data-end=\"834\"\u003eThis is a matched pair of officer’s shoulder boards for a \u003cstrong data-start=\"392\" data-end=\"401\"\u003eMajor\u003c\/strong\u003e of the \u003cstrong data-start=\"409\" data-end=\"494\"\u003eKöniglich Bayerisches Feldartillerie-Regiment Nr. 8 “Prinz Heinrich von Preußen.”\u003c\/strong\u003e Constructed with thick \u003cstrong data-start=\"518\" data-end=\"562\"\u003einterwoven silver\/aluminum Russian braid\u003c\/strong\u003e over a padded core, these boards retain their original \u003cstrong data-start=\"618\" data-end=\"643\"\u003escarlet wool underlay\u003c\/strong\u003e, the recognized \u003cem data-start=\"660\" data-end=\"673\"\u003ewaffenfarbe\u003c\/em\u003e for artillery officers. The gilt \u003cstrong data-start=\"707\" data-end=\"723\"\u003e“8” numerals\u003c\/strong\u003e are finely beaded and denote the regiment number, while the absence of gilt pips confirms the rank of Major.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"836\" data-end=\"1244\"\u003eThe reverse features intact \u003cstrong data-start=\"864\" data-end=\"883\"\u003eslip-on tongues\u003c\/strong\u003e with period stitching, designed for attachment to tunic loops. The braid shows subtle blue-grey flecking, a hallmark of officer-quality bullion cords, and has aged to a pleasing patina. Scarlet wool underlay remains vibrant, though with minor moth nips and edge wear consistent with field service. Numerals retain original gilt finish with only light toning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1246\" data-end=\"1616\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1246\" data-end=\"1264\"\u003eRegiment Nr. 8\u003c\/strong\u003e, based in Nuremberg and Ansbach, held the honor title \u003cem data-start=\"1319\" data-end=\"1349\"\u003e“Prinz Heinrich von Preußen”\u003c\/em\u003e and fought with distinction on the Western Front during 1914–1918. A Major in this regiment would typically command a battalion (\u003cem data-start=\"1479\" data-end=\"1490\"\u003eAbteilung\u003c\/em\u003e) of three batteries, approximately 12 field guns, making these boards representative of a highly responsible field command.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1618\" data-end=\"1778\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1618\" data-end=\"1635\"\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e approx. 4–4.5 in. long, 1.8 in. wide.\u003cbr data-start=\"1673\" data-end=\"1676\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1676\" data-end=\"1690\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very good. Clean braid, gilt devices intact, underlay bright with light service wear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1780\" data-end=\"1935\"\u003eA desirable and scarce set of \u003cstrong data-start=\"1810\" data-end=\"1848\"\u003eImperial Bavarian officer insignia\u003c\/strong\u003e, directly tied to one of Bavaria’s most active artillery regiments of the Great War.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810049347823,"sku":"23-235","price":325.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-235_1.jpg?v=1756843575"},{"product_id":"bavarian-generalfeldmarschall-shoulder-boards-with-crossed-batons","title":"Bavarian Generalfeldmarschall Shoulder Boards with Crossed Batons","description":"\u003cp\u003eA superb and exceedingly rare matched pair of Bavarian Generalfeldmarschall shoulder boards, dating from the Imperial German period. Constructed from heavy gold and silver wire in the elaborate interwoven pattern reserved for the highest ranks, these boards display the iconic crossed marshal’s batons worked in finely detailed silver with engraved feathering and decorative rings at each end. The reverse is finished with bright red wool backing and attachment straps, typical of Bavarian general officers, with original metal prongs intact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"619\" data-end=\"897\"\u003eThe rank of Generalfeldmarschall was the pinnacle of military achievement within the Bavarian and wider Imperial German army, bestowed only in the most exceptional cases. The crossed batons are the traditional insignia of a field marshal, signifying supreme command authority.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"899\" data-end=\"1229\"\u003eCondition is excellent, with only light age toning to the metallic braids and minor handling to the red wool underlay. The intricate braiding remains tight, and both sets of silver batons are secure and crisp in their detail. These boards retain strong color and presence, making them a centerpiece in any high-level collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1231\" data-end=\"1625\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1231\" data-end=\"1251\"\u003eHistorical Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1251\" data-end=\"1254\"\u003eWithin the Bavarian army, the title of Generalfeldmarschall was granted only rarely, most often in wartime to commanders who achieved decisive victories. This insignia would have been worn on the full-dress uniform of a general officer holding Bavaria’s highest rank, signifying both prestige and loyalty to the Bavarian crown within the framework of the German Empire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1627\" data-end=\"1706\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1627\" data-end=\"1644\"\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e approx. 11 cm x 5 cm.\u003cbr data-start=\"1666\" data-end=\"1669\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1669\" data-end=\"1684\"\u003eProvenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Private collection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810050363631,"sku":"23-370","price":4250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-370_1.jpg?v=1756844052"},{"product_id":"bavarian-generalmajor-shoulder-boards-pair","title":"Bavarian Generalmajor Shoulder Boards (Pair)","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"52\" data-end=\"412\"\u003eThis is a well-preserved matched pair of Bavarian Generalmajor’s shoulder boards, dating to the Imperial period. Worn by the lowest general officer rank in the Bavarian Army (equivalent to Major General), these boards are constructed of thickly interwoven gold and silver bullion cords, forming the distinctive braid pattern associated with general officers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"414\" data-end=\"733\"\u003eThe underlay is of bright carmine red wool, signifying a general officer of the Bavarian contingent. The bullion retains much of its original luster, showing only expected toning from age. The reverse cloth shows field wear with some moth tracking and fabric loss, though the stitching and construction remain intact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"735\" data-end=\"1043\"\u003eGeneralmajor was a critical rank in the Bavarian and broader German armies, commanding brigades or divisions and bridging the field officer corps with the higher general staff. These boards would have been worn on the Waffenrock or parade tunic by a Bavarian officer serving in the pre-1918 Kingdom’s army.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1045\" data-end=\"1166\"\u003eA scarce and authentic set of Bavarian general officer insignia, increasingly difficult to obtain in matched condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1168\" data-end=\"1367\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1168\" data-end=\"1182\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very good overall. Bullion braiding remains bright and tight, with minor fraying at edges. Red underlay retains strong color but shows areas of moth damage. Reverse stitching intact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1369\" data-end=\"1431\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1369\" data-end=\"1378\"\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e Standard officer dimensions, approx. 5 in. length.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810051739887,"sku":"23-379","price":675.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-379_1.jpg?v=1756844292"},{"product_id":"bavarian-infantry-officer-candidate-shoulder-boards-feldwebel-aspirant","title":"Bavarian Infantry Officer Candidate Shoulder Boards – Feldwebel-Aspirant","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"80\" data-end=\"426\"\u003eThis is a fine and rarely encountered pair of Bavarian Infantry \u003cem data-start=\"144\" data-end=\"164\"\u003eFeldwebel-Aspirant\u003c\/em\u003e shoulder boards, dating to the period of Imperial Germany in the First World War. These boards were worn by non-commissioned officers in training for officer status, marking them as candidates (\u003cem data-start=\"359\" data-end=\"380\"\u003eOffizier-Aspiranten\u003c\/em\u003e) on the path to receiving their commission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"428\" data-end=\"790\"\u003eThe boards are constructed with alternating silver and black chevron-patterned wire cord, interwoven with the distinctive narrow blue Bavarian state stripe. This braid sits upon a red underlay, denoting the wearer’s branch of service as line infantry. The red cloth backing remains intact and correctly stitched, showing expected period wear but still vibrant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"792\" data-end=\"1189\"\u003eOfficer candidate boards were a unique hybrid of enlisted and officer insignia: the red backing and silver cord echoed the officer pattern, while the chevron-patterned braid indicated the provisional status of the wearer. Candidates were generally promoted from among the most capable senior NCOs, often \u003cem data-start=\"1096\" data-end=\"1111\"\u003eVizefeldwebel\u003c\/em\u003e or \u003cem data-start=\"1115\" data-end=\"1126\"\u003eFeldwebel\u003c\/em\u003e, and were groomed for leadership roles in the officer corps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1191\" data-end=\"1567\"\u003eThese shoulder boards represent the transitional rank between senior enlisted authority and full officer command—an essential step for maintaining leadership within the Bavarian regiments of the Imperial German Army. By World War I, Bavaria maintained a semi-independent military structure within the larger Imperial command, with its own traditions, uniforms, and insignia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1569\" data-end=\"1834\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1569\" data-end=\"1583\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e The pair remains in excellent displayable state. The cords are tight and retain their original form, with slight fraying at the ends consistent with age and service. The red underlay is strong and retains deep color, with light wear on the reverse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1836\" data-end=\"2264\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1836\" data-end=\"1864\"\u003eHistorical Significance:\u003c\/strong\u003e This pattern of shoulder boards was worn during one of the most turbulent times in Bavarian military history. Officer candidates formed the backbone of a wartime officer corps depleted by heavy casualties, and many of those who wore these boards went on to serve as Leutnants at the front. Collectors will recognize these as scarce insignia, particularly well-preserved matched pairs such as this.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810116554991,"sku":"23-07","price":425.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-07_1.jpg?v=1756848009"},{"product_id":"bavarian-infantry-major-s-shoulder-boards-7-infanterie-regiment","title":"Bavarian Infantry Major’s Shoulder Boards – 7. Infanterie-Regiment","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"74\" data-end=\"530\"\u003eThis is a fine and original matched pair of officer’s shoulder boards for a \u003cstrong data-start=\"150\" data-end=\"198\"\u003eMajor in the Bavarian 7. Infanterie-Regiment\u003c\/strong\u003e, a formation with a distinguished record of service within the Royal Bavarian Army. The boards feature the classic interwoven silver bullion cord construction, richly toned from age and field use. At the center of each rests a gilt regimental numeral “7” in the elegant curled Bavarian style, denoting assignment to the regiment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"532\" data-end=\"934\"\u003eThe regiment itself, \u003cstrong data-start=\"553\" data-end=\"617\"\u003eKöniglich Bayerisches 7. Infanterie-Regiment “Prinz Leopold”\u003c\/strong\u003e, was headquartered in Bayreuth before the First World War and traced its lineage back to the Napoleonic era. Officers of this rank would have held staff responsibility, typically commanding a battalion or serving as senior staff within the regiment, particularly during the grueling campaigns on the Western Front.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"936\" data-end=\"1254\"\u003eThe reverse retains its scarlet underlay – the traditional Waffenfarbe (branch color) for infantry – though it shows moth loss, age spots, and wear consistent with original use. The bullion cords are intact with only light fraying in places, displaying the natural tarnish one expects in authentic Imperial insignia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1256\" data-end=\"1580\"\u003eA scarce and historically evocative pair of Bavarian officer’s boards, these carry both regimental and state-specific character. For advanced collectors of German militaria, they represent an opportunity to own an artifact directly linked to the officer corps of Bavaria’s proud contingent within the Imperial German Army.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1582\" data-end=\"1855\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1582\" data-end=\"1596\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very good for age; bullion intact with tarnish, gilt numerals worn but present, red wool backing moth-damaged but stable.\u003cbr data-start=\"1718\" data-end=\"1721\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1721\" data-end=\"1730\"\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approx. 10.5 cm long.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810130874607,"sku":"23-08","price":489.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-08_2.jpg?v=1756848364"},{"product_id":"bavarian-luftstreitkrafte-engineer-officer-s-shoulder-board-single","title":"Bavarian Luftstreitkräfte Engineer Officer’s Shoulder Board – Single","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"76\" data-end=\"715\"\u003eThis is a \u003cstrong data-start=\"86\" data-end=\"130\"\u003esingle Bavarian officer’s shoulder board\u003c\/strong\u003e from the \u003cem data-start=\"140\" data-end=\"158\"\u003eLuftstreitkräfte\u003c\/em\u003e (Imperial German Air Service), dating to the First World War. The board is constructed of \u003cstrong data-start=\"249\" data-end=\"283\"\u003einterwoven silver bullion cord\u003c\/strong\u003e on a \u003cstrong data-start=\"289\" data-end=\"310\"\u003ered wool underlay\u003c\/strong\u003e, denoting a technical branch posting within Bavaria. Affixed to the center is a finely detailed gilt device of a \u003cstrong data-start=\"424\" data-end=\"464\"\u003epropeller flanked by outspread wings\u003c\/strong\u003e, the classic insignia of aviation officers responsible for aircraft and flight operations. Above this sits a small domed button bearing the \u003cstrong data-start=\"605\" data-end=\"630\"\u003eBavarian rampant lion\u003c\/strong\u003e, symbol of the Kingdom of Bavaria and used exclusively on Bavarian issue insignia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"717\" data-end=\"1129\"\u003eThis particular example represents a \u003cstrong data-start=\"754\" data-end=\"819\"\u003eFliegertruppe (aviation troops) engineer or technical officer\u003c\/strong\u003e, tasked with aircraft maintenance, airfield logistics, or operational support—roles crucial to the rapid expansion of German air power during the Great War. The red underlay further ties this to \u003cstrong data-start=\"1015\" data-end=\"1061\"\u003etechnical or artillery-linked service arms\u003c\/strong\u003e, a distinction often blurred within aviation’s support structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1131\" data-end=\"1399\"\u003eCondition is very good, with bullion retaining a bright silver tone and only light age toning. The red wool backing shows expected period wear but remains intact, while both the button and gilt winged-propeller device are securely affixed with fine detail preserved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1401\" data-end=\"1558\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1401\" data-end=\"1418\"\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Standard officer size, approx. 4.5 in (11.5 cm) long.\u003cbr data-start=\"1472\" data-end=\"1475\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1475\" data-end=\"1490\"\u003eProvenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Likely removed from a wartime tunic, surviving as a single board.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1560\" data-end=\"1753\"\u003eA highly collectible, historically rich shoulder board representing Bavaria’s contribution to the \u003cstrong data-start=\"1658\" data-end=\"1678\"\u003eLuftstreitkräfte\u003c\/strong\u003e, whose pioneering aviators helped shape the future of military aviation.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810134020335,"sku":"23-09","price":395.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-09_1.jpg?v=1756848611"},{"product_id":"bavarian-medical-officer-s-epaulettes-pair-oberstabsarzt-senior-surgeon","title":"Bavarian Medical Officer’s Epaulettes – Pair (Oberstabsarzt \/ Senior Surgeon)","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"570\" data-end=\"1019\"\u003eA matched pair of Bavarian medical officer’s full-dress epaulettes, worn circa Kaiserzeit through World War I. Constructed on crimson Bavarian medical branch cloth, each displays large fire-gilt crescents with deep patina, bordered by hand-embroidered silver bullion across the tongue. Centered on each is the serpent insignia of the \u003cstrong data-start=\"904\" data-end=\"921\"\u003eSanitätskorps\u003c\/strong\u003e, flanked by two gilt officer pips denoting the rank of \u003cstrong data-start=\"977\" data-end=\"994\"\u003eOberstabsarzt\u003c\/strong\u003e (equivalent to Major).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1021\" data-end=\"1345\"\u003eThe crimson underlay is distinctive to Bavarian medical officers, differentiating them from line infantry or cavalry branch colors. Bavaria’s army, while subordinated to Berlin in wartime, retained its own insignia, officer appointments, and heraldic traditions, making such items scarcer than their Prussian counterparts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1347\" data-end=\"1606\"\u003eCondition is very fine, with strong gilding to the crescents, intact serpent devices, and well-preserved bullion trim. The crimson wool faces are bright with only minor age toning, showing no significant moth damage. All fittings remain original and secure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1608\" data-end=\"1913\"\u003eMedical officers of this rank frequently held divisional or hospital appointments within the Bavarian contingent of the Imperial Army. Their responsibilities included overseeing field hospitals, surgical operations, and coordinating the care of wounded soldiers during the early years of modern warfare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1915\" data-end=\"2075\"\u003eThis pair represents a rare survival of Bavarian state-specific insignia, highly sought after by collectors focusing on medical or state-regimental militaria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2077\" data-end=\"2341\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2077\" data-end=\"2091\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent overall, minor wear to crescents, vibrant cloth, bullion intact.\u003cbr data-start=\"2166\" data-end=\"2169\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2169\" data-end=\"2178\"\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e Standard officer dress epaulette dimensions.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810139787503,"sku":"23-525","price":875.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-525_1.jpg?v=1756849009"},{"product_id":"bavarian-leutnant-shoulder-straps-1-ulanen-regt-kaiser-wilhelm-ii","title":"Bavarian Leutnant Shoulder Straps – 1. Ulanen-Regt. Kaiser Wilhelm II","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"246\" data-end=\"476\"\u003eThis is a fine matched pair of officer’s shoulder straps from the prestigious \u003cstrong data-start=\"324\" data-end=\"398\"\u003e1. Bayerisches Ulanen-Regiment “Kaiser Wilhelm II., König von Preußen”\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of Bavaria’s most distinguished cavalry regiments of the Imperial era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"478\" data-end=\"968\"\u003eThe straps are constructed of \u003cstrong data-start=\"508\" data-end=\"536\"\u003eflat silver bullion lace\u003c\/strong\u003e, neatly sewn over a crimson red wool underlay—the \u003cem data-start=\"587\" data-end=\"600\"\u003eWaffenfarbe\u003c\/em\u003e specific to the Bavarian Ulanen. Their elongated, narrow form and simple bullion design are correct for \u003cstrong data-start=\"705\" data-end=\"729\"\u003ejunior officer ranks\u003c\/strong\u003e, and in this case denote the rank of \u003cstrong data-start=\"767\" data-end=\"779\"\u003eLeutnant\u003c\/strong\u003e. The absence of gilt pips or cyphers confirms the lowest commissioned grade; Oberleutnante would have carried one gilt pip, while higher ranks bore more elaborate interwoven cord boards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"970\" data-end=\"1364\"\u003eThe crimson backing remains sound, though showing typical service toning and light wear from age. The reverse construction reveals the expected reinforcement strips, stitched in for durability where the straps affixed to the Waffenrock or service tunic. The bullion itself has toned to a muted silver-grey, with only minor fray, but remains supple and attractive with a pleasing field patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1366\" data-end=\"1878\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"1370\" data-end=\"1392\"\u003e1. Ulanen-Regiment\u003c\/strong\u003e was raised in 1863 and proudly carried the honorific title of Kaiser Wilhelm II, underscoring Bavaria’s dynastic ties with Prussia within the Imperial German Army. Officers of this regiment were both elite horsemen and symbols of Bavarian martial prestige, resplendent in their dark blue tunics with crimson facings and traditional czapka headdress. This regiment garrisoned at Ansbach and Bamberg, and its officers were often present at Imperial functions in both Munich and Berlin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1880\" data-end=\"2147\"\u003eThese straps would have been worn in both peacetime and the opening years of the Great War, before the decline of traditional cavalry on the Western Front. Their survival in this condition is especially noteworthy, as officer’s insignia were often stripped postwar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2149\" data-end=\"2325\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2149\" data-end=\"2163\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very good overall. Bullion toned with age but intact; crimson underlay vibrant; stitching firm; only light wear to reverse consistent with field or parade use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2327\" data-end=\"2474\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2327\" data-end=\"2472\"\u003eA scarce and desirable set from Bavaria’s premier Ulanen regiment, with excellent display appeal for collectors of Imperial cavalry insignia.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810172621039,"sku":"23-10","price":395.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-10_1.jpg?v=1756849749"},{"product_id":"bavarian-generalfeldmarschall-shoulder-board-infantry-regiment-nr-8","title":"Bavarian Generalfeldmarschall Shoulder Board – Infantry Regiment Nr. 8","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"78\" data-end=\"552\"\u003eThis is a single Bavarian Generalfeldmarschall’s shoulder board, a rare and highly distinguished piece of Imperial German insignia. Constructed in the elaborate interwoven pattern of gilt and silver cord reserved for the highest ranks, the board features four large silver rank pips denoting a full Generalfeldmarschall. Centered upon the weave is the gilt numeral \u003cem data-start=\"443\" data-end=\"446\"\u003e8\u003c\/em\u003e, identifying it to the Bavarian Infantry Regiment Nr. 8, an elite formation of the Royal Bavarian Army.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"554\" data-end=\"908\"\u003eThe bright red underlay is correct for Bavarian infantry, providing striking contrast to the heavy gold and silver braid. Stitching and attachment loops remain intact, though as a single example this piece was likely preserved as a relic of a full dress set. The gilding on the numeral retains excellent detail with only minor wear consistent with age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"910\" data-end=\"1521\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"910\" data-end=\"933\"\u003eHistorical Context:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"933\" data-end=\"936\"\u003eThe rank of Generalfeldmarschall was the pinnacle of military authority in Imperial Germany, rarely bestowed and usually reserved for wartime command of army groups or for royalty. In Bavaria—a kingdom within the German Empire with its own autonomous army—Generalfeldmarschall insignia carried immense prestige, symbolizing not only the highest military authority but also Bavaria’s distinct status alongside Prussia, Saxony, and Württemberg. Infantry Regiment Nr. 8, to which this board is attributed, was among the units with proud traditions in service to the Wittelsbach dynasty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1523\" data-end=\"1755\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1523\" data-end=\"1537\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very fine. The gilt and silver cords remain bright, with only light toning and age patina. The red underlay is strong in color with minimal moth nips. The piece retains its full form and displays exceptionally well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1757\" data-end=\"1950\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1757\" data-end=\"1948\"\u003eA highly important single Bavarian Generalfeldmarschall shoulder board, attributable to Infantry Regiment Nr. 8, and a centerpiece for any advanced collection of Imperial German insignia.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810178388207,"sku":"23-470 XAA","price":1395.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-470XAA_1.jpg?v=1756849939"},{"product_id":"bavarian-general-der-infanterie-shoulder-board-infantry-regiment-nr-11","title":"Bavarian General der Infanterie Shoulder Board – Infantry Regiment Nr. 11","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"81\" data-end=\"519\"\u003eThis is a single Bavarian General officer’s shoulder board, denoting the rank of \u003cem data-start=\"162\" data-end=\"186\"\u003eGeneral der Infanterie\u003c\/em\u003e within the Royal Bavarian Army. The intricate interwoven pattern of gilt and silver cords is adorned with two large gilt rank pips, confirming the senior general officer grade just below \u003cem data-start=\"374\" data-end=\"389\"\u003eGeneraloberst\u003c\/em\u003e. The gilt numeral “11” identifies service with \u003cstrong data-start=\"437\" data-end=\"472\"\u003eInfanterie-Leib-Regiment Nr. 11\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of Bavaria’s proud infantry formations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"521\" data-end=\"900\"\u003eThe bright red underlay is characteristic of Bavarian general officers, immediately distinguishing them from line regiments. The workmanship is of the highest order, befitting the prestige of Bavaria’s most senior officers. Condition remains excellent, with bright gilding and only light age wear to the reverse, which retains its period red cloth backing and strap attachment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"902\" data-end=\"1351\"\u003eWithin the German Imperial Army, Bavaria maintained its own army structure, traditions, and distinctive insignia even while serving under the Kaiser’s overall command. Generals of this grade held significant command authority, often entrusted with corps or army-level formations. Pieces such as this are scarce, as they were only worn by the most senior Bavarian officers during the late Imperial era, and survival of original examples is limited.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1353\" data-end=\"1459\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1353\" data-end=\"1457\"\u003eA highly desirable and historically important piece of Bavarian insignia for the advanced collector.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810180452591,"sku":"23-427","price":995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-427_1.jpg?v=1756850229"},{"product_id":"bavarian-generalmajor-overcoat-shoulder-board","title":"Bavarian Generalmajor Overcoat Shoulder Board","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"202\" data-end=\"664\"\u003eThis is a single overcoat shoulder board for a \u003cstrong data-start=\"249\" data-end=\"265\"\u003eGeneralmajor\u003c\/strong\u003e of the Royal Bavarian Army, the lowest general officer rank and equivalent to a one-star general. Constructed of the distinctive \u003cstrong data-start=\"395\" data-end=\"438\"\u003einterwoven gilt and silver Russia braid\u003c\/strong\u003e, the pattern immediately identifies the wearer as a member of the Bavarian general staff. The underlay is of \u003cstrong data-start=\"548\" data-end=\"568\"\u003ecrimson red wool\u003c\/strong\u003e, the branch color of Bavarian generals, and is neatly stitched with the folded tongue intact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"666\" data-end=\"1019\"\u003eUnlike tunic boards, which bore gilt rank stars and sometimes regimental numerals, \u003cstrong data-start=\"749\" data-end=\"798\"\u003eovercoat boards were traditionally left plain\u003c\/strong\u003e, with no stars, numerals, or embellishments. This simplified version was both practical for field wear and easily recognizable, since the unique braid pattern and crimson backing alone signified general officer status.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1021\" data-end=\"1343\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"1025\" data-end=\"1046\"\u003eGeneralmajor rank\u003c\/strong\u003e was the first step into the general officer corps, often awarded to seasoned regimental commanders or officers on the Bavarian General Staff. Holders of this rank played pivotal roles in the Imperial German Army during the First World War, frequently serving in brigade and divisional commands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1345\" data-end=\"1638\"\u003eCondition is excellent for its age, with bright gilt and silver braid showing only minor toning, and a strong red backing with original stitching intact. This piece remains a fine and representative example of a \u003cstrong data-start=\"1557\" data-end=\"1596\"\u003eBavarian general officer’s insignia\u003c\/strong\u003e, specifically for wear on the overcoat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1640\" data-end=\"1786\"\u003eA scarce and desirable artifact for collectors of German Imperial militaria, particularly those focused on the elite ranks of the Bavarian Army.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810184286447,"sku":"23-375","price":385.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-375_1.jpg?v=1756850715"},{"product_id":"pair-of-bavarian-infantry-leutnant-s-shoulder-boards-infantry-regiment-nr-10","title":"Pair of Bavarian Infantry Leutnant’s Shoulder Boards – Infantry Regiment Nr. 10","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"87\" data-end=\"514\"\u003eThis is a fine matched pair of Bavarian officer’s shoulder boards for a \u003cstrong data-start=\"159\" data-end=\"260\"\u003eLeutnant of Infanterie-Regiment Nr. 10 “Prinz Ludwig” (10. Infanterie-Regiment Königreich Bayern)\u003c\/strong\u003e. Founded in 1726 and headquartered at Ingolstadt, this regiment bore the name of Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and served with distinction throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, later forming part of the Bavarian III Army Corps during the Great War.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"516\" data-end=\"908\"\u003eThe boards are constructed in the classic Bavarian style, featuring tightly woven silver bullion cords with subtle interwoven blue highlights, a detail unique to Bavarian insignia. Each board bears the gilt regimental numeral “10” securely affixed to the face. The underlay is white wool, denoting infantry service. The backs show the expected period stitching with attachment loops intact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"910\" data-end=\"1039\"\u003eCondition is very good, showing light service wear but retaining excellent bullion sheen and well-preserved regimental numbers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1041\" data-end=\"1250\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1041\" data-end=\"1248\"\u003eA textbook, regimental-marked pair of Bavarian infantry Leutnant’s shoulder boards — desirable for any collector of Bavarian officer insignia or focused on named line regiments of the Kingdom of Bavaria.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46810197917935,"sku":"23-570","price":365.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-570_1.jpg?v=1756850952"},{"product_id":"saxon-uhlan-officer-oberleutnant-shoulder-boards-pair-imperial-german-original","title":"Saxon Uhlan Officer Oberleutnant Shoulder Boards Pair Imperial German Original","description":"\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eOriginal pair of Imperial German officer shoulder boards (\u003cem\u003eSchulterstücke\u003c\/em\u003e) for an \u003cem\u003eOberleutnant\u003c\/em\u003e (First Lieutenant) of a Royal Saxon Uhlan Regiment, executed in the standard subaltern officer pattern of interwoven silver bullion cord on a light blue wool underlay, with the single gilt rank pip denoting the wearer's rank. The pair corresponds to officer service in either the \u003cem\u003eKöniglich Sächsisches 1. Ulanen-Regiment Nr. 17\u003c\/em\u003e or the \u003cem\u003e2. Ulanen-Regiment Nr. 18\u003c\/em\u003e, the two regular Uhlan regiments of the Saxon Army contingent within the Imperial German order of battle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe boards are constructed in the conventional Imperial German officer pattern. The base is a shaped wool underlay in the light blue (\u003cem\u003ehellblau\u003c\/em\u003e or \u003cem\u003ekornblumenblau\u003c\/em\u003e) facing color used by Saxon Uhlan officers, cut to the standard rectangular form with rounded shoulder end and squared neck end. Sewn over the underlay is the interwoven plait of silver bullion cord constructed from two parallel cords doubled and woven into the characteristic four-strand braid pattern that distinguishes the German subaltern officer rank group. The braid runs the full length of the board and terminates at the shoulder end in the integral loop through which the brass attachment hook of the tunic engaged. A single gilt rank pip in the standard six-pointed star form is mounted on each board, positioned approximately one third of the way down from the shoulder loop. The single pip is the regulation rank insignia for an \u003cem\u003eOberleutnant\u003c\/em\u003e; junior subaltern officers (\u003cem\u003eLeutnant\u003c\/em\u003e) wore plain boards with no pips, while \u003cem\u003eHauptmann\u003c\/em\u003e (Captain) wore two pips arranged horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe light blue underlay color is the diagnostic feature establishing the Uhlan regimental attribution. Within the Saxon Army, the \u003cem\u003ehellblau\u003c\/em\u003e facing color was reserved for the Uhlan (lancer) regiments; the Saxon Hussar regiments used different facing colors depending on the specific regiment. The Saxon Uhlan regiments traced their lineage to the cavalry establishments of the Kingdom of Saxony predating the unification of the German Empire in 1871, and were maintained under the post-unification military convention by which the Saxon Army contingent retained its distinct identity and uniform conventions while operating within the unified Imperial command structure under Prussian leadership in conflict.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe two Royal Saxon Uhlan regiments — the \u003cem\u003e1. Ulanen-Regiment Nr. 17\u003c\/em\u003e garrisoned at Oschatz and the \u003cem\u003e2. Ulanen-Regiment Nr. 18\u003c\/em\u003e garrisoned at Leipzig — formed the Uhlan establishment of the XII (1. Royal Saxon) Army Corps and the XIX (2. Royal Saxon) Army Corps respectively. Both regiments served on active campaign across the 1914 to 1918 period, with deployments including the Western Front and Eastern Front according to the operational assignments of their parent corps. Officers of these regiments wore the \u003cem\u003ehellblau\u003c\/em\u003e-faced boards represented by this pair as part of their service and dress uniform configuration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe construction of the boards is consistent with original-period German officer manufacture. The bullion cord work shows the dense, tightly woven character produced by experienced military tailors working from regulation patterns, with the braid laid evenly across the full length of the board and the shoulder loop properly formed to engage the tunic attachment hook. The light blue wool underlay extends slightly beyond the bullion border on all sides, providing the visible facing color band that identified the regimental category at a glance. The reverse of each board shows the wool backing with the brass attachment prong intact at the lower end and the original hand stitching securing the construction throughout. The brass prongs remain in place and functional.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eFor the collector, original Imperial German officer shoulder boards in matched pairs with intact bullion work and original facing color underlays are foundational components of any serious Imperial German uniform or insignia collection. Saxon material in particular carries distinct collecting value within the Collect-by-State framework, as Saxon insignia surfaces less frequently than Prussian equivalents and the \u003cem\u003ehellblau\u003c\/em\u003e Uhlan underlay is among the more visually distinctive of the regimental color conventions. The single rank pip \u003cem\u003eOberleutnant\u003c\/em\u003e configuration represents the most common subaltern officer rank within the cavalry regiments and corresponds to the company-grade officers who typically led troops at the squadron level under the regimental command echelon. The pair as offered is suitable for installation on a corresponding Saxon officer tunic during restoration work, for standalone display as a documented Saxon Uhlan officer insignia pair, or as a reference set for collectors building rank- and state-specific holdings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eCondition is consistent with the age and service history of the pair. The bullion cord work retains good overall integrity with the four-strand plait fully intact and properly seated across both boards. The silver bullion shows even oxidation to a soft grey-brown tone characteristic of original-period German officer bullion, with no significant loss of structure or unraveling. The light blue wool underlay retains strong color across both boards with light wear at the edges and minor surface wear consistent with period service. Some scattered nap loss is visible on the wool, particularly along the lower border of one board where the underlay shows minor fraying. The gilt rank pips are intact and securely mounted, retaining most of their original gilt finish with light aging. The brass attachment prongs are intact and functional on both boards. No significant moth damage, repairs, or restoration are observed. The pair displays as an honest matched original.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49480693809391,"sku":"23-231","price":295.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-321_3.jpg?v=1777588848"},{"product_id":"saxon-major-shoulder-boards-pair-infantry-regiment-103-grand-duke-of-baden-original","title":"Saxon Major Shoulder Boards Pair Infantry Regiment 103 Grand Duke of Baden Original","description":"\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eOriginal matched pair of Imperial German field-grade officer shoulder boards (\u003cem\u003eSchulterstücke\u003c\/em\u003e) for a \u003cem\u003eMajor\u003c\/em\u003e of the \u003cem\u003e4. Königlich Sächsisches Infanterie-Regiment Nr. 103 Großherzog Friedrich II. von Baden\u003c\/em\u003e, the Royal Saxon Infantry Regiment Nr. 103 garrisoned at Bautzen and bearing as its regimental \u003cem\u003eInhaber\u003c\/em\u003e (honorary chief) Grand Duke Friedrich II of Baden. The pair is executed in the standard field-grade officer pattern of interwoven flat silver bullion cord on a red wool underlay, with applied gilt regimental cyphers identifying the unit and a brass disc-form attachment button at the shoulder end characteristic of staff and field-grade officer construction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eEach board is constructed in the regulation Imperial German \u003cem\u003eStabsoffizier\u003c\/em\u003e (field officer) configuration. The base is a shaped red wool underlay cut to the standard rectangular form with a rounded shoulder end. Sewn over the underlay is the field-grade officer plait — a flat interwoven braid of multiple thin silver bullion strands laid in the characteristic herringbone pattern that distinguishes the field-grade rank group (\u003cem\u003eMajor\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eOberstleutnant\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eOberst\u003c\/em\u003e) from the doubled-cord plait of the subaltern officer group. The plait runs the full length of the board. At the shoulder end of each board, a circular brass disc functions as the attachment anchor that engaged the corresponding tunic loop and shoulder strap closure. Applied to the center of each board is the gilt Arabic numeral \u003cem\u003e103\u003c\/em\u003e in the elegant period typeface used for regimental cyphers, identifying the wearer's unit at a glance. The absence of rank pips on the boards establishes the rank as \u003cem\u003eMajor\u003c\/em\u003e; \u003cem\u003eOberstleutnant\u003c\/em\u003e (Lieutenant Colonel) wore one pip on the plait, and \u003cem\u003eOberst\u003c\/em\u003e (Colonel) wore two.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe historical position of the regiment is significant. The \u003cem\u003e4. Königlich Sächsisches Infanterie-Regiment Nr. 103\u003c\/em\u003e traced its lineage to a 1709 Saxon establishment and was reformed in its modern numbered configuration in 1867 from the consolidation of the 3rd and 4th Saxon Infantry Battalions. From 1877 the regimental headquarters was permanently established at Bautzen in eastern Saxony. The regiment received its honorific designation \u003cem\u003eGroßherzog Friedrich II. von Baden\u003c\/em\u003e in honor of Grand Duke Friedrich II of Baden (1857 to 1928), who served as the regimental \u003cem\u003eInhaber\u003c\/em\u003e or honorary chief from 1907 until the end of the monarchy in 1918. Within the Imperial German order of battle, the regiment formed part of the 45th Infantry Brigade, 23rd (1st Royal Saxon) Division of the XII (I. Royal Saxon) Army Corps headquartered at Dresden, the senior corps command of the Royal Saxon Army contingent. The regiment served on active campaign throughout the 1914 to 1918 period across multiple sectors of the Western Front.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe construction of the boards is fully consistent with original-period Saxon and Prussian-pattern officer manufacture. The flat herringbone bullion plait shows the dense, even weave produced by experienced military tailors working from regulation patterns, with the silver bullion oxidized to a soft grey tone with localized greenish verdigris bloom from the underlying brass core wires of the bullion thread reacting through the silver wash. This greenish bloom within the bullion is a normal aging characteristic of original Imperial German officer bullion work and is not corrosion of the silver itself. The red wool underlay extends beyond the plait on all sides, creating the visible red border that identified the regimental affiliation. The gilt \u003cem\u003e103\u003c\/em\u003e cyphers retain the majority of their original gilding with light wear at high points. The brass attachment discs at the shoulder ends are intact on both boards. The reverses show the red wool backing in good condition, with the integral attachment loop of bent brass wire intact at the shoulder end of each board and the small woven tab at the lower end through which the securing thread passed when the boards were mounted on the tunic. Light wear and minor thread loss at the lower attachment tabs is visible on both boards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eFor the collector, original Imperial German field-grade officer shoulder boards in matched named-regiment pairs with intact bullion work, original gilt cyphers, and complete attachment hardware are among the most desirable categories of Imperial German insignia. Saxon material in particular carries distinct collecting value within the Collect-by-State framework, as Saxon insignia surfaces less frequently than Prussian equivalents, and \u003cem\u003eGroßherzog Friedrich II. von Baden\u003c\/em\u003e boards are notable both for the named-regiment association and for the cross-state historical link to the Grand Duchy of Baden through the regimental \u003cem\u003eInhaber\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cem\u003eMajor\u003c\/em\u003e-rank boards represent a senior battalion-command grade, and the configuration suggests the wearer commanded one of the regiment's three battalions or held a senior staff position within the regimental establishment. The pair is suitable for installation on a corresponding Saxon officer \u003cem\u003eWaffenrock\u003c\/em\u003e during restoration work, for standalone display as a documented field-grade officer insignia pair, or as a featured rank- and unit-attributed reference set within a serious Imperial German officer collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eCondition is consistent with the age and service history of the pair. The flat silver bullion plait retains good overall integrity with no significant unraveling or losses to the herringbone weave on either board. The silver shows even oxidation with the characteristic verdigris bloom at the deeper recesses of the plait noted above, a normal feature of original Imperial German officer bullion work. The red wool underlay retains strong color across both boards with light surface wear and minor scattered nap loss consistent with extended period service and storage. The gilt \u003cem\u003e103\u003c\/em\u003e cyphers are intact and securely mounted with most of the original gilt finish retained. The brass attachment discs at the shoulder ends are intact on both boards. The integral brass wire loops on the reverses are intact and functional. No moth damage, repairs, or restoration are observed. The pair displays as an honest matched original.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49480704491759,"sku":"23-134","price":635.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-234_2.jpg?v=1777589177"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-mecklenburg-strelitz-grenadier-89-ensign-shoulder-board-cypher","title":"Imperial German Mecklenburg-Strelitz Grenadier 89 Ensign Shoulder Board Cypher","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original officer-grade metallic-cord shoulder board (Schulterstück) attributed to the II. Bataillon of the Großherzoglich Mecklenburgisches Grenadier-Regiment Nr. 89 (Grand Ducal Mecklenburg Grenadier Regiment No. 89), the battalion garrisoned at Neustrelitz and bearing the cypher of the reigning house of Mecklenburg-Strelitz. The reverse retains a period collection label reading “Fig. 11 – Gren. R. 89 II Btl. Mecklenburg-Strelitz,” consistent with the construction and cypher observed on the face. The board is of the silver flat-cord type worn by the Empire’s junior officers and Fähnriche (ensigns), and is recorded in inventory as an ensign’s board.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe face is worked in flat silver lametta cord laid in close parallel runs and turned at the rounded head in the standard tongue form, the metallic ground shot through with fine red soul threads (Seele) carrying the regimental colour. A gilt interlaced script cypher is fixed to the lower field; the small crown that originally surmounted it is now absent. A vertical button slit is worked at the head for attachment, and the squared base is left unfinished where it would seat beneath the shoulder seam. The piece is mounted on a madder-red wool underlay, visible at the head and forming the velvet backing across the reverse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eGrenadier-Regiment Nr. 89 was the senior infantry regiment of the Mecklenburg duchies and one of the few formations in the Imperial order of battle drawn jointly from two sovereign states. Its I. Bataillon stood at Schwerin under the Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, while the II. Bataillon was quartered at Neustrelitz, capital of the much smaller Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, and wore that house’s cypher in distinction from its sister battalion. The regiment formed part of the IX Army Corps. Mecklenburg-Strelitz ranked among the smallest of the twenty-five states of the German Empire, and its grenadiers carried the elevated prestige attached to that designation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe cypher is an interlaced gilt monogram of the Grand Ducal house of Mecklenburg-Strelitz; the specific royal initials are not cleanly resolved in the provided images and are therefore left unattributed to a named Grand Duke. The crown that sat above the cypher, worn on these boards through to 1918, is no longer present, and its loss is reflected in the valuation below.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is honest and consistent with age and service. The silver cord on the face remains largely intact and well defined, though the metallic surface has dulled and oxidised as expected for the period. The gilt cypher is secure and retains good colour. The reverse shows substantial loss to the red velvet, rubbed through to the underlying stiffener across much of the field, and the base edge is frayed with loose threads and exposed backing. The surmounting crown is absent. No restoration is evident in the images provided.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eMecklenburg-Strelitz material is among the scarcer fields in Imperial German collecting. The grand duchy was small, its military contribution limited to its share of the joint Grenadier regiment, and insignia positively tied to the Strelitz battalion appear only infrequently. A cyphered board carrying the Grand Ducal monogram is more desirable than the plain numbered straps of the larger states, and the secure II. Bataillon attribution places the piece precisely within the collect-by-state framework. The absent crown and reverse wear temper the valuation, but it remains an identifiable and uncommon survivor of one of the Empire’s smallest sovereign houses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701138432239,"sku":"23-1000 XJT@JT","price":226.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1000_1.jpg?v=1781124025"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-mecklenburg-strelitz-grenadier-89-ensign-shoulder-board-cypher-copy","title":"Imperial German Mecklenburg Oberleutnant Dragoon Rgt 18 Shoulder Board Cypher","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 3.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original Oberleutnant’s silver-cord shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the 2. Großherzoglich Mecklenburgisches Dragoner-Regiment Nr. 18 (2nd Grand Ducal Mecklenburg Dragoon Regiment No. 18). The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 10.0 – DR 18 Silver Trim,” consistent with the silver cord, blue underlay, and crowned Mecklenburg cypher on the face. A single gilt rank star fixes the wearer’s grade at Oberleutnant (first lieutenant).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of flat silver lametta cord laid in parallel runs and turned at the rounded head, the metallic ground shot through with fine red soul threads (Seele). It is mounted on a cornflower-blue wool underlay that frames the cord on every side. The lower field carries a gilt crowned cypher — a royal monogram beneath the Grand Ducal crown — and below it a single six-pointed gilt star (Stern) marking the rank. A vertical button slit is worked at the head for attachment, and the squared base terminates in cut, lightly frayed cord ends that would seat beneath the shoulder seam. The reverse is faced in matching blue wool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eDragoner-Regiment Nr. 18 was one of the two mounted regiments raised by the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, paired with its sister Dragoner-Regiment Nr. 17; together they constituted the cavalry arm of the duchy within the Imperial Army, brigaded within the IX Army Corps. As dragoons, the regiment was trained and equipped as light cavalry for reconnaissance, screening, and mounted action, a branch that retained considerable prestige in the Imperial service. Mecklenburg-Schwerin was the larger of the two Mecklenburg grand duchies, and its regiments carried the cypher of its reigning house in the same manner the Strelitz battalions carried theirs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe crowned monogram on the face is the cypher of the Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and appears to read as the interlaced “FF” of Friedrich Franz — the dynastic name borne by the duchy’s nineteenth- and twentieth-century sovereigns — though the finest detail is partly obscured and the specific Grand Duke is therefore not asserted. The presence of both the crown and the cypher marks the regiment as one held under a royal chief.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is very good and complete. The silver cord retains strong braid definition and a bright, only lightly oxidised surface. The gilt crown, cypher, and rank star are all present, secure, and hold good colour. The blue underlay is clean and full on both faces, and the reverse is sound with the collection label intact. The only meaningful wear is at the base, where the cut cord ends are frayed in the manner normal to the unfinished tuck end. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eMecklenburg cavalry insignia is actively sought within the collect-by-state framework, and a complete officer’s board carrying the crowned Grand Ducal cypher, the correct blue underlay, and an unambiguous rank star stands well above a plain or numeral-only strap in desirability. The strong condition and the secure regimental and rank attribution make this an attractive anchor piece for a Mecklenburg or Imperial German cavalry collection, and a natural companion to its brass-trimmed DR 17 counterpart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701139251439,"sku":"23-1001 XJT@JT","price":366.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1001_1.jpg?v=1781123969"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-mecklenburg-oberleutnant-dragoon-rgt-18-shoulder-board-cypher-copy","title":"Imperial German Jager Bataillon 14 Enlisted Shoulder Strap Green Red Piping","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original enlisted ranks (Mannschaften) shoulder strap (Schulterklappe) of Jäger-Bataillon Nr. 14 (Rifle Battalion No. 14), identified by the dark Jäger-green wool field, the red piping, and the red battalion numeral “14.” The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 10.0 – JB 14 EM,” and your inventory files the piece within the Mecklenburg grouping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe strap is cut from heavy Jäger-green wool to the peaked, single-point pattern of the other ranks, edged on its long sides and head in red wool piping (Vorstoß). The battalion number “14” is worked in red chain-stitch embroidery (Kettenstich) at the center of the field. A button slit is set at the pointed head for attachment, and the reverse is plain-backed in dark cloth. There is no metallic cord or applied device, the construction being that of a simple enlisted man’s strap rather than an officer’s board.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe Jäger battalions were the light infantry and marksman arm of the Imperial German Army, heirs to the huntsman-rifleman tradition that distinguished them from the line. They were dressed in green rather than the infantry’s dark blue, trained for skirmishing, sharpshooting, patrol, and independent action, and recruited with an eye to woodsmen and foresters in the older units. The green field of this strap is the defining branch colour of that arm; the numeral “14” identifies the specific battalion, and the red piping served to distinguish it within the Jäger establishment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is honest and consistent with field use by an enlisted man. The green field is intact and the red “14” is complete, though lightly frayed at the stitch edges. The red piping survives around most of the strap with abrasion and loss toward the base, where the lower point shows an open tear. The reverse is heavily soiled and threadbare, the backing cloth degraded and worn through in places to reveal the green and red beneath. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eEnlisted shoulder straps of this kind represent the accessible, foundational end of Imperial German state and branch collecting. Numbered Jäger straps are sought for matching to specific battalions and for assembling branch-focused or collect-by-state groupings, and a genuine, clearly numbered other-ranks example carries straightforward appeal at a modest price point despite its wear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701147312367,"sku":"23-1002 XJT@JT","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1002_1.jpg?v=1781123890"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-jager-bataillon-14-enlisted-shoulder-strap-green-red-piping-copy","title":"Imperial German Mecklenburg Jager Bataillon 14 Leutnant Officer Shoulder Board","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original Leutnant’s officer shoulder board (Schulterstück) of Jäger-Bataillon Nr. 14 (Rifle Battalion No. 14), the Jäger battalion of the Mecklenburg contingent, identified by the gilt battalion numeral “14” set on a silver flat-braid cord field over a crimson underlay. The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 10.0 – J.B. 14 Lt. Mecklenburg.” The absence of rank stars fixes the wearer’s grade at Leutnant (second lieutenant), the junior commissioned rank.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of flat braided silver cord (Geflecht) worked in the herringbone pattern characteristic of subaltern officers’ boards and turned at the rounded head in the standard tongue form. A gilt metal “14” is affixed to the lower field in the contrasting branch metal. The board is mounted on a deep crimson wool underlay that frames the cord on the face and forms the full velvet backing across the reverse. A vertical button slit is worked at the head for attachment, and the squared base terminates in cut silver cord ends that would seat beneath the shoulder seam.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe Jäger battalions were the light infantry and marksman arm of the Imperial German Army, heirs to the huntsman-rifleman tradition that set them apart from the line. They were dressed in green rather than the infantry’s dark blue and trained for skirmishing, sharpshooting, patrol, and independent action. Jäger-Bataillon Nr. 14 belonged to the Mecklenburg establishment, and its officers wore the silver cord board of their grade carrying the battalion number, the rank and file of the same unit being distinguished by the green strap and red numeral.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe gilt “14” identifies the battalion, while the silver cord and crimson underlay are the distinctions of a commissioned officer. The reverse label records both the Mecklenburg affiliation and the Leutnant grade. No cypher or rank star is present, consistent with the junior officer of a numbered battalion rather than a regiment held under a royal chief.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is good and complete. The silver braid is intact with strong pattern definition, the metallic surface dulled and tarnished to a warm grey as is normal for period silver cord. The gilt “14” is secure and retains colour. The crimson underlay is strong and bright, particularly on the reverse, and the collection label is intact. The base shows cut and lightly frayed cord ends in the manner normal to the unfinished tuck end. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eOfficer boards of the Jäger arm are encountered less often than their enlisted counterparts, and a numbered example tied to the Mecklenburg contingent carries added appeal within the collect-by-state framework. The complete construction, the secure battalion attribution, and the clear rank make this a sound representative piece for a Jäger, Mecklenburg, or Imperial German officer-insignia collection, and a natural pairing with the enlisted strap of the same battalion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701152325871,"sku":"23-1003 XJT@JT","price":198.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1003_1.jpg?v=1781123844"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-mecklenburg-jager-bataillon-14-leutnant-officer-shoulder-board-copy","title":"Imperial German Mecklenburg Field Artillery 60 Leutnant Officer Shoulder Board","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 3.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original Leutnant’s officer shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the 2. Großherzoglich Mecklenburgisches Feldartillerie-Regiment Nr. 60 (2nd Grand Ducal Mecklenburg Field Artillery Regiment No. 60). The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 10 – FAR 60.” The crowned cypher on the face and the scarlet underlay identify the regiment and its branch, while the absence of rank stars fixes the wearer’s grade at Leutnant (second lieutenant).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of flat braided silver cord laid in parallel runs and turned at the rounded head, the metallic ground now oxidised and darkened to a tarnished gold-brown and shot through with fine soul threads (Seele) in red, yellow, and blue. It is mounted on a scarlet wool underlay — the branch colour of the field artillery — that frames the cord on the face and forms the full backing across the reverse. The lower field carries a gilt crowned cypher, a royal monogram set beneath the Grand Ducal crown. A vertical button slit is worked at the head for attachment, and the squared base terminates in cut cord ends that would seat beneath the shoulder seam.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eFeldartillerie-Regiment Nr. 60 was the second of the two field artillery regiments raised by the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, providing divisional gun support within the Mecklenburg contingent of the Imperial Army, brigaded in the IX Army Corps. Scarlet was the universal branch colour of the German field artillery, carried here in the underlay, while the metallic cord and royal cypher marked the wearer as a commissioned officer of a regiment held under the duchy’s sovereign house.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe crowned monogram is the cypher of the Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and appears to read as the interlaced “FF” of Friedrich Franz — the dynastic name borne by the duchy’s sovereigns — though the detail is partly obscured and the specific Grand Duke is therefore not asserted. The presence of both crown and cypher marks the regiment as one held under a royal chief.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is honest and shows notable age. The silver cord is intact and retains good braid definition but has darkened and tarnished overall to a warm gold-brown tone. The crowned cypher is present and secure. The scarlet underlay remains strong, particularly on the reverse, where the collection label is intact. The base edge shows wear and loss with the dark backing exposed and some fraying. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eMecklenburg artillery insignia is sought within the collect-by-state framework, and an officer’s board carrying the crowned Grand Ducal cypher and the correct scarlet branch underlay stands well above a plain or numeral-only strap in desirability. The complete cypher and the secure regimental and branch attribution make this a representative anchor piece for a Mecklenburg or Imperial German artillery collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701159174383,"sku":"23-1004 XJT@JT","price":226.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1004_1.jpg?v=1781123794"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-mecklenburg-field-artillery-60-leutnant-officer-shoulder-board-copy","title":"Imperial German Mecklenburg Oberleutnant Dragoon Rgt 17 Shoulder Board Cypher","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original Oberleutnant’s metallic-cord shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the 1. Großherzoglich Mecklenburgisches Dragoner-Regiment Nr. 17 (1st Grand Ducal Mecklenburg Dragoon Regiment No. 17). The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 10.0 – DR 17 Brass Trim,” consistent with the warm brass-gold cord, scarlet underlay, and crowned Mecklenburg cypher on the face. A single gilt rank star fixes the wearer’s grade at Oberleutnant (first lieutenant).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of flat braided metallic cord in the warm brass-gold tone that marks the “brass trim” of this regiment and sets it apart from its silver-corded sister, Dragoner-Regiment Nr. 18, the cord laid in parallel runs, turned at the rounded head, and shot through with fine soul threads (Seele) in red and blue. It is mounted on a scarlet wool underlay that frames the cord on the face and forms the full velvet backing across the reverse. The lower field carries a gilt crowned cypher — a royal monogram beneath the Grand Ducal crown — and below it a single gilt rank star (Stern) marking the grade. A vertical button slit is worked at the head for attachment, and the squared base terminates in cut cord ends that would seat beneath the shoulder seam.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eDragoner-Regiment Nr. 17 was the senior of the two mounted regiments raised by the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, paired with Dragoner-Regiment Nr. 18; together they formed the cavalry arm of the duchy within the Imperial Army, brigaded in the IX Army Corps. The two regiments were distinguished by metal colour and underlay — the 17th in brass-gold over scarlet, the 18th in silver over blue — a difference that allows their boards to be told apart at a glance. As dragoons, the regiment was trained and equipped as light cavalry for reconnaissance, screening, and mounted action, a branch that retained considerable prestige in the Imperial service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe crowned monogram on the face is the cypher of the Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and appears to read as the interlaced “FF” of Friedrich Franz — the dynastic name borne by the duchy’s sovereigns — though the finest detail is partly obscured and the specific Grand Duke is therefore not asserted. The presence of both crown and cypher marks the regiment as one held under a royal chief.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is very good and complete. The metallic cord retains strong braid definition with the expected tarnish to its gold surface. The gilt crown, cypher, and rank star are all present, secure, and hold good colour. The scarlet underlay is strong and full on both faces, with some old staining to the reverse and the collection label intact. The base shows cut cord ends in the manner normal to the unfinished tuck end. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eMecklenburg cavalry insignia is actively sought within the collect-by-state framework, and a complete officer’s board carrying the crowned Grand Ducal cypher, the correct scarlet underlay, and an unambiguous rank star stands well above a plain or numeral-only strap in desirability. The strong condition and the secure regimental and rank attribution make this an attractive anchor piece for a Mecklenburg or Imperial German cavalry collection, and the natural gold-corded companion to its silver-trimmed DR 18 counterpart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701164744943,"sku":"23-1005 XJT@JT","price":311.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1005_1.jpg?v=1781123738"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-mecklenburg-oberleutnant-dragoon-rgt-17-shoulder-board-cypher-copy","title":"Imperial German Mecklenburg Fusilier 90 Kaiser Wilhelm Hauptmann Shoulder Board","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original Hauptmann’s field-grey officer shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the Mecklenburg Füsilier-Regiment Nr. 90, the regiment that bore the name and cypher of Kaiser Wilhelm. The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 10.0 – Fus. R. 90 Mecklenburg.” The Imperial crowned “W” cypher identifies the regiment and its imperial chief, while a pair of gilt rank stars fixes the wearer’s grade at Hauptmann (captain).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of field-grey (feldgrau) braided cord — the subdued service cord that replaced the bright silver dress cord for active wear from 1915 — laid in parallel runs, turned at the rounded head, and shot through with fine soul threads (Seele) in red and orange. It is mounted on a field-grey wool underlay that forms the full backing across the reverse. The lower field carries a gilt Imperial crown (Kaiserkrone) above an interlaced “W” cypher, with one gilt six-pointed rank star (Stern) set above the crown and a second below the cypher, the two stars together denoting the rank. A vertical button slit is worked at the head for attachment, and the squared base terminates in cut, frayed cord ends that would seat beneath the shoulder seam.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eFüsilier-Regiment Nr. 90 was the fusilier regiment of the Mecklenburg contingent, raised by the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and brigaded within the IX Army Corps. The fusilier designation, once denoting a class of light line infantry, survived into the Imperial period chiefly as a traditional and honorific title. A regiment carrying the name and cypher of the Kaiser held a particular place of distinction, and the Imperial rather than royal crown above the “W” marks the imperial chief. The field-grey construction reflects the wartime shift to subdued insignia, the bright silver dress boards giving way to muted service patterns as the demands of the front required less conspicuous uniforms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe crowned monogram is the “W” cypher of Kaiser Wilhelm beneath the Imperial crown, marking the regiment as one bearing the Kaiser’s name. The two gilt stars flanking the cypher are the rank distinction of a Hauptmann.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is honest and consistent with field service. The field-grey cord is intact with good braid definition, lightly soiled and aged as expected for a service-worn board. The gilt crown, “W” cypher, and both rank stars are present and secure. The feldgrau underlay is sound on both faces, with the collection label intact on the reverse. The base shows frayed cord ends in the manner normal to the unfinished tuck end. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eA field-grey captain’s board from a Kaiser-named Mecklenburg regiment draws together several desirable threads at once — the collect-by-state Mecklenburg connection, the captain’s rank, the Imperial “Kaiser Wilhelm” cypher, and the wartime feldgrau pattern actively sought by uniform and insignia collectors. The complete devices and the secure regimental and rank attribution make this a strong and characterful representative piece for a Mecklenburg, Imperial infantry, or field-uniform collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701167497455,"sku":"23-1006 XJT@JT","price":254.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1006_1.jpg?v=1781123681"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-mecklenburg-fusilier-90-kaiser-wilhelm-hauptmann-shoulder-board-copy","title":"Imperial German Mecklenburg Grenadier 89 Hauptmann Shoulder Board Cypher","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original Hauptmann’s silver-cord officer shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the Großherzoglich Mecklenburgisches Grenadier-Regiment Nr. 89 (Grand Ducal Mecklenburg Grenadier Regiment No. 89). The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 10 – IR 89 Hauptm.” The crowned cypher identifies the regiment’s Mecklenburg-Schwerin chief, while a pair of gilt rank stars fixes the wearer’s grade at Hauptmann (captain).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of flat braided silver cord laid in parallel runs and turned at the rounded head, the metallic ground shot through with fine red soul threads (Seele). It is mounted on a white wool underlay and backed in black wool on the reverse, and a silver (white-metal) regimental button is retained at the head. The lower field carries a gilt crown above an interlaced gilt cypher, with one gilt six-pointed rank star (Stern) set above the crown and a second below the cypher, the two together denoting the rank. A vertical button slit is worked at the head for attachment, and the squared base terminates in cut cord ends that would seat beneath the shoulder seam.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eGrenadier-Regiment Nr. 89 was the senior infantry regiment of the Mecklenburg duchies and one of the few formations in the Imperial order of battle drawn jointly from two sovereign states. Its I. Bataillon stood at Schwerin under the Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, while the II. Bataillon was quartered at Neustrelitz under the Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, each battalion wearing the cypher of its own house. This board belongs with the Schwerin material and carries the Schwerin cypher; the regiment formed part of the IX Army Corps and bore the elevated prestige attached to the grenadier designation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe crowned monogram is the cypher of the Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and appears to read as the interlaced “FF” of Friedrich Franz — the dynastic name borne by the duchy’s sovereigns — though the finest detail is partly obscured and the specific Grand Duke is therefore not asserted. The crown and cypher mark the regiment as one held under a royal chief, and the two gilt stars are the rank distinction of a Hauptmann.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is good and complete. The silver cord retains strong braid definition with the expected tarnish to the metallic surface, and the retained regimental button has darkened with age. The gilt crown, cypher, and both rank stars are present and secure. The white underlay is sound, the black backing intact, and the collection label is present on the reverse. The base shows cut cord ends in the manner normal to the unfinished tuck end. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eA captain’s board of the Mecklenburg grenadier regiment, complete with crowned Grand Ducal cypher, correct white underlay, rank stars, and a retained regimental button, sits well above a plain or numeral-only strap in desirability and fits squarely within the collect-by-state framework. It also stands as the Schwerin, captain-grade counterpart to the regiment’s Strelitz ensign board, the two together illustrating how a single jointly-held regiment wore the cyphers of both Mecklenburg sovereign houses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701180113135,"sku":"23-1007 XJT@JT","price":254.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1007_1.jpg?v=1781123624"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-mecklenburg-grenadier-89-hauptmann-shoulder-board-cypher-copy","title":"Imperial German Infantry Regiment 145 Ensign Shoulder Board Crowned Cypher","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original ensign’s (Fähnrich) silver-cord shoulder board (Schulterstück) recorded to Infanterie-Regiment Nr. 145 (Infantry Regiment No. 145). The reverse carries two collection labels reading “Fig. 7.4 – KIR 145” and “Fig. 7.4 – Ensign, IR 145.” A \u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003egilt crown above an interlaced royal cypher identifies the regiment’s chief, and the absence of rank stars is consistent with the ensign grade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of flat braided silver cord worked in the herringbone pattern, doubled and turned at the rounded head. It is mounted on a light blue underlay. The lower field carries a gilt crown set above an interlaced gilt cypher, with the Roman numeral “II” below the monogram. The reverse is faced in cream cloth and retains the cloth securing tongue at the base together with the button slit at the head. No rank stars are present.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe Fähnrich, or ensign, was the senior officer-aspirant grade of the Imperial German Army — a young man who had passed his examinations and awaited his commission, permitted to wear the officer-pattern cord board of his regiment but without the rank stars of a commissioned officer. The board thus marks a specific and transitional point in the path to a commission. The light blue underlay reflects the regimental distinction, and the two-colour, or dual, underlay system recorded for this group corresponds to the 1915 reform under which a second underlay colour was introduced to identify regiments more precisely in the field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe crowned monogram is an interlaced royal cypher surmounted by the crown and carrying the Roman numeral “II” beneath; the specific letters and the monarch are not cleanly resolved in the provided images and are therefore left unattributed. The crown marks the regiment as one held under a royal chief.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is very good. The silver cord is bright with strong braid definition and only light tarnish. The gilt crown and cypher are present and secure. The light blue underlay is clean, the cream backing is sound with the securing tongue intact, and both collection labels are present on the reverse. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eEnsign boards are encountered less often than those of commissioned officers and represent a distinct grade within the officer-aspirant pathway, of particular interest to collectors who assemble rank-progression sets. A crowned-cypher board carrying the 1915 dual-underlay distinction also appeals to those who follow the development of Imperial uniform regulation, making this a sound and somewhat uncommon representative piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701186535663,"sku":"23-1008 XJT@JT","price":198.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1008_1.jpg?v=1781123561"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-infantry-regiment-145-ensign-shoulder-board-crowned-cypher-copy","title":"Imperial German Dragoon Regiment 3 von Derfflinger Oberleutnant Shoulder Board","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original Oberleutnant’s silver-cord shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the Dragoner-Regiment “von Derfflinger” (Neumärkisches) Nr. 3 (Dragoon Regiment “von Derfflinger,” New March, No. 3). The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 7.4 – DR 3 von Derfflinger.” A gilt crown above an interlaced cypher identifies the regiment’s chief, and a single gilt rank star fixes the wearer’s grade at Oberleutnant (first lieutenant).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of flat braided silver cord worked in the herringbone pattern, turned at the rounded head, and shot through with fine soul threads (Seele). It is mounted on a red wool underlay that forms the full backing across the reverse. The lower field carries a gilt crown above an interlaced gilt cypher, with a single gilt six-pointed rank star (Stern) below. A vertical button slit is worked at the head for attachment, and the squared base terminates in cut cord ends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe regiment was one of the Prussian dragoon regiments distinguished with the name of a celebrated historic commander — here Field Marshal Georg von Derfflinger, the cavalry general who rose from humble origins to command the army of the Great Elector of Brandenburg in the seventeenth century. As dragoons, the regiment served as light cavalry for reconnaissance, screening, and mounted action, and the bearing of a historic honour-name placed it among the more tradition-laden formations of the mounted arm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe crowned monogram is an interlaced cypher beneath the crown; the specific letters are not cleanly resolved in the provided images and are therefore left unattributed. The crown marks the regiment as one held under a royal chief, and the single star is the rank distinction of an Oberleutnant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is good. The silver cord retains strong braid definition with the expected tarnish, and the gilt crown, cypher, and rank star are present and secure. The red underlay is sound, with some wear and old staining toward the base and reverse, and the collection label is intact. The base shows cut cord ends in the manner normal to the unfinished tuck end. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eDragoon regiments bearing a historic honour-name such as “von Derfflinger” carry added cachet within cavalry collecting, and a complete officer’s board with crowned cypher and an unambiguous rank star sits well above a plain strap in desirability. The secure regimental and rank attribution make this an attractive representative piece for a Prussian cavalry or named-regiment collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701191483631,"sku":"23-1009 XJT@JT","price":209.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1009_1.jpg?v=1781123500"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-dragoon-regiment-3-von-derfflinger-oberleutnant-shoulder-board-copy","title":"Imperial German Uhlan Regiment 7 Grand Duke Baden Ensign Shoulder Board","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original ensign’s (Fähnrich) silver-cord shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the Ulanen-Regiment “Großherzog Friedrich von Baden” (Rheinisches) Nr. 7 (Uhlan Regiment “Grand Duke Friedrich of Baden,” Rhenish, No. 7). The reverse carries collection labels reading “Fig. 7.4 – Ulan-Regt 7” and identifying the regiment as the Rhenish lancer regiment No. 7 of the XXI Army Corps. A gilt “7” numeral on a two-colour underlay identifies the regiment, and the absence of rank stars is consistent with the ensign grade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of flat braided silver cord worked in the herringbone pattern and turned at the rounded head, with a gilt “7” numeral applied to the lower field. It is mounted on a red wool underlay carrying a yellow border — the two-colour, or dual, underlay introduced in 1915 to distinguish regiments more precisely in the field. A vertical button slit is worked at the head, and the squared base terminates in cut cord ends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eUlanen-Regiment Nr. 7 bore the name of Grand Duke Friedrich of Baden and stood as a Rhenish lancer regiment within the XXI Army Corps in the western borderlands. The uhlans were the lance-armed light cavalry of the Imperial Army, employed for reconnaissance, pursuit, and shock action. The Fähnrich, or ensign, was the senior officer-aspirant grade, permitted to wear the officer-pattern cord board of his regiment without the rank stars of a commissioned officer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe numeral “7” identifies the regiment, while the red-and-yellow dual underlay marks the 1915 distinction. No rank star is present, consistent with the ensign grade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is very good. The silver cord is bright with strong braid definition, and the gilt numeral is secure. The dual underlay is strong, the red field and yellow border both clear, and the collection labels are intact on the reverse. The base shows lightly frayed cord ends in the manner normal to the unfinished tuck end. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eA lancer board bearing the honour-name of the Grand Duke of Baden, in the ensign grade and carrying the 1915 dual underlay, draws together several collecting threads at once — the named-regiment connection, the officer-aspirant rank, and the documented uniform reform. The complete numeral and secure attribution make it an uncommon and appealing representative piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701194891503,"sku":"23-1010 XJT@JT","price":226.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1010_1.jpg?v=1781123448"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-uhlan-regiment-7-grand-duke-baden-ensign-shoulder-board-copy","title":"Imperial German Uhlan Regiment 7 Baden Oberleutnant Feldgrau Shoulder Board","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original Oberleutnant’s field-grey shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the Ulanen-Regiment “Großherzog Friedrich von Baden” (Rheinisches) Nr. 7 (Uhlan Regiment “Grand Duke Friedrich of Baden,” Rhenish, No. 7). The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 7.4 – UlR 7 – 1st Lt.” A gilt “7” numeral together with a single gilt rank star identifies the regiment and fixes the grade at Oberleutnant (first lieutenant).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of field-grey (feldgrau) braided cord — the subdued service pattern that replaced the bright silver dress cord for active wear from 1915 — turned at the rounded head and carrying a gilt “7” numeral with a single gilt six-pointed rank star (Stern) on the lower field. It is mounted on a golden-yellow underlay, and a vertical button slit is worked at the head. The squared base terminates in cut cord ends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eUlanen-Regiment Nr. 7 bore the name of Grand Duke Friedrich of Baden and served as a Rhenish lancer regiment within the XXI Army Corps. The uhlans were the lance-armed light cavalry of the Imperial Army. This board is the field-service counterpart to the regiment’s bright dress board, its muted construction reflecting the wartime shift to subdued insignia as the demands of the front required less conspicuous uniforms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe numeral “7” identifies the regiment and the single gilt star marks the Oberleutnant’s grade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is good and consistent with field service. The feldgrau cord is intact with good braid definition, lightly soiled as expected for a service-worn board, and the gilt numeral and rank star are present and secure. The golden-yellow underlay is sound, and the collection label is intact on the reverse. The base shows cut cord ends in the manner normal to the unfinished tuck end. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eField-grey officer boards of named lancer regiments are sought by collectors of wartime and field-uniform material, and the documented Oberleutnant grade together with the regiment’s Baden honour-name makes this a sound representative piece, and a natural field-service companion to the regiment’s dress board.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 6.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701199773935,"sku":"23-1011 XJT@JT","price":141.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1011_1.jpg?v=1781123385"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-uhlan-regiment-7-baden-oberleutnant-feldgrau-shoulder-board-copy","title":"Imperial German Guard Foot Artillery Oberst Feldgrau Shoulder Board Cannons","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original Oberst’s field-grey field-officer shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the Garde-Fußartillerie-Regiment (Guard Foot Artillery Regiment). The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 7.1 – G. Fus. A. R.” Crossed gilt cannon barrels together with a pair of gilt rank stars identify the branch and fix the grade at Oberst (colonel).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of round interwoven (plaited) metallic braid in field-grey — the construction reserved for field officers (Stabsoffiziere) — mounted on a golden-yellow underlay. The centre carries a gilt crossed-cannon device with flaming-bomb tips, the emblem of the artillery, with one gilt six-pointed rank star (Stern) set above and a second below, the two together denoting the rank. A vertical button slit is worked at the head, and a black wool backing strap is retained on the reverse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe Garde-Fußartillerie formed the Guard’s foot, or heavy, artillery, manning the heavier guns and siege ordnance and distinct from the horse-drawn field artillery. The crossed cannon barrels mark the artillery branch, while the round interwoven braid identifies a field officer; a Major wore the braid without stars, an Oberstleutnant with one, and an Oberst with two. The field-grey construction reflects the wartime adoption of subdued insignia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe crossed-cannon device denotes the artillery, and the two gilt stars flanking it are the rank distinction of an Oberst commanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is good. The interwoven braid is intact with strong definition, and the gilt crossed-cannon device and both rank stars are present and secure. The golden-yellow underlay is sound, the backing strap is retained, and the collection label is intact on the reverse. Some service wear is present as expected. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eA senior field officer’s board of a Guard artillery regiment, complete with the distinctive crossed-cannon device, the field-officer braid, and the colonel’s two stars, combines Guard, artillery, and senior-rank appeal in a single piece, and the field-grey construction adds the interest of wartime service insignia.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701203181807,"sku":"23-1012 XJT@JT","price":198.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1012_1.jpg?v=1781123317"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-guard-foot-artillery-oberst-feldgrau-shoulder-board-cannons-copy","title":"Imperial German Guard Foot Artillery Major Silver Field Officer Shoulder Board","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original field officer’s silver-cord shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the Garde-Fußartillerie-Regiment (Guard Foot Artillery Regiment), of the grade of Major. The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 7.1 – G Fus AR.” Crossed gilt cannon barrels on the round interwoven field-officer braid identify the branch and grade; the absence of rank stars denotes a Major.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of round interwoven (plaited) silver braid — the construction reserved for field officers — mounted on a golden-yellow underlay. The centre carries a gilt crossed-cannon device with flaming-bomb tips, the emblem of the artillery. No rank stars are present, the plain field-officer braid marking the grade of Major. A vertical button slit is worked at the head, and the squared base terminates in cut cord ends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe Garde-Fußartillerie formed the Guard’s foot, or heavy, artillery, manning the heavier guns and siege ordnance. The crossed cannon barrels mark the artillery branch, while the round interwoven braid identifies a field officer; among the field grades the Major wore the braid without stars, the Oberstleutnant with one, and the Oberst with two. The bright silver braid is the dress pattern, worn before and alongside the subdued field-grey insignia of the war years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe crossed-cannon device denotes the artillery, and the plain field-officer braid without stars is the rank distinction of a Major.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is very good. The silver interwoven braid is bright with strong definition, and the gilt crossed-cannon device is secure. The golden-yellow underlay is sound and the construction complete. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eA Guard foot-artillery field officer’s dress board, with the distinctive crossed-cannon device and the interwoven braid of field rank, offers Guard, artillery, and field-officer appeal in a single bright dress piece, and stands as the dress and senior-rank companion to the field-grey colonel’s board of the same regiment.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701206950127,"sku":"23-1013 XJT@JT","price":141.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1013_1.jpg?v=1781123252"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-guard-foot-artillery-major-silver-field-officer-shoulder-board-copy","title":"Imperial German 3rd Guard Uhlan Regiment Major Field Officer Shoulder Board","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original Major’s silver-cord field-officer shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the 3. Garde-Ulanen-Regiment (3rd Guard Uhlan Regiment). The reverse carries a collection label reading “Fig. 7.0 – 3. G. Ul. R.” The round interwoven braid identifies a field officer, and the absence of rank stars denotes a Major.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of round interwoven (plaited) metallic braid — the construction reserved for field officers (Stabsoffiziere) — mounted on a golden-yellow wool underlay. The braid is now heavily darkened by oxidation. No rank stars are present, the plain field-officer braid marking the grade of Major. A vertical button slit is worked at the head, a cloth securing loop is retained at the head on the reverse, and the squared base terminates in cut cord ends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe Guard Uhlan regiments were the lance-armed light cavalry of the Prussian Guard, an elite mounted arm recruited and equipped to the highest standard and quartered about the capital. The round interwoven braid identifies a field officer; among the field grades the Major wore the braid without stars, the Oberstleutnant with one, and the Oberst with two.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe plain field-officer braid without stars is the rank distinction of a Major; the board carries no regimental numeral or cypher.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is good. The interwoven braid is intact with strong plaiting, though darkened overall by oxidation. The golden-yellow underlay is sound, the securing loop is retained, and the collection label is intact on the reverse. The base shows cut cord ends in the manner normal to the unfinished tuck end. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eA field officer’s board of an elite Guard lancer regiment combines the prestige of the Prussian Guard cavalry with senior rank, making it a desirable representative piece for a Guard, cavalry, or rank-focused collection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701211537647,"sku":"23-1014 XJT@JT","price":141.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1014_1.jpg?v=1781123176"},{"product_id":"imperial-german-3rd-guard-uhlan-regiment-major-field-officer-shoulder-board-copy","title":"Imperial German 2nd Guard Uhlan Regiment Ensign Shoulder Board Red Underlay","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn original ensign’s (Fähnrich) silver-cord shoulder board (Schulterstück) of the 2. Garde-Ulanen-Regiment (2nd Guard Uhlan Regiment). The reverse carries a collection label reading “G. Ul. R. 2 – Fig. 7 – Ensign.” The flat braided silver cord on a red underlay, without rank stars, is consistent with the ensign grade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe board is built of flat braided silver cord worked in the herringbone pattern and turned at the rounded head, mounted on a red wool underlay. It carries no numeral, cypher, or rank star. A vertical button slit is worked at the head, and the squared base terminates in lightly frayed cord ends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe Guard Uhlans were the lance-armed light cavalry of the Prussian Guard, an elite mounted arm of the highest standing. The Fähnrich, or ensign, was the senior officer-aspirant grade — a young man who had passed his examinations and awaited his commission, permitted to wear the officer-pattern cord board of his regiment without the rank stars of a commissioned officer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eThe plain board without numeral, cypher, or star is consistent with the ensign grade of a Guard regiment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eCondition is very good. The silver cord is bright with strong braid definition, and the red underlay is clean. The base shows lightly frayed cord ends in the manner normal to the unfinished tuck end, and the collection label is intact on the reverse. No restoration is evident in the provided images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8.0pt;\"\u003eAn ensign’s board of an elite Guard lancer regiment unites the prestige of the Prussian Guard cavalry with the distinct officer-aspirant grade, of particular interest to collectors assembling rank-progression sets within the Guard.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49701215174895,"sku":"23-1015 XJT@JT","price":198.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/files\/23-1015_1.jpg?v=1781123107"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/9169\/5855\/collections\/9d6a4211ed5543b14ca0eb98a535db23.jpg?v=1739477488","url":"https:\/\/derrittmeister.com\/collections\/german-shoulder-boards.oembed?page=3","provider":"Derrittmeister Militaria Group","version":"1.0","type":"link"}