Autographed Portrait Postcard of Hermann Köhl, German Aviation Pioneer

This original early 20th century photographic portrait postcard features Hermann Köhl (1888–1938), one of Germany’s most significant aviation pioneers and a central figure in the history of early long-distance flight. The portrait presents Köhl in three-quarter profile, dressed in civilian attire with a high collar and tie, consistent with known formal portrait images of Köhl from the mid- to late-1920s, following his rise to international prominence.

The image is printed in sepia tones on period German postcard stock with a smooth photographic surface and narrow white border. The composition, lighting, and paper quality are consistent with professional studio portrait production of the interwar period. The postcard bears Köhl’s bold ink signature, applied directly to the photographic surface. The autograph displays confident, flowing pen strokes and natural variation in pressure, fully consistent with authenticated examples of Hermann Köhl’s signature from the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Hermann Köhl is best known as the co-pilot of the Junkers W 33 “Bremen,” which in April 1928 completed the first successful east-to-west transatlantic flight, traveling from Ireland to Newfoundland. This achievement marked a major milestone in aviation history and cemented Köhl’s international reputation. For this feat, he was awarded the Pour le Mérite, Germany’s highest military decoration, and became a widely celebrated public figure in Germany during the late Weimar period. Signed portrait postcards such as this were commonly produced for prominent aviators of the era and distributed as presentation pieces or commemorative keepsakes.

The reverse of the postcard is blank and unused, with a standard divided-back format and no postal markings, indicating it was likely retained as an autograph or presentation item rather than circulated through the mail. The card remains in very good condition overall, with light age toning and minimal handling wear consistent with its age. No structural damage, repairs, or later alterations are observed.

A historically significant and visually compelling autograph piece from one of the most important figures in early transatlantic aviation, well suited for advanced collectors of aviation history, German historical autographs, and interwar ephemera.