Autographed Sanke Card Nr. 602 - Pour le Mérite Winner Hauptmann Alfred Keller

This autographed Sanke Card Nr. 602 depicts Hauptmann Alfred Keller, a distinguished German military aviator during World War I. Born in 1882, Keller quickly rose through the ranks, earning the prestigious Orden Pour le Mérite—Germany's highest military honor—on December 4, 1917, for his exceptional service as a bomber pilot and squadron commander.

In this photograph, Keller is seen wearing his M1915 Feldbluse and visor cap, with the Pour le Mérite proudly displayed at his throat. His left breast is adorned with the Prussian Pilot Badge, the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class, and a ribbon bar, symbolizing his significant contributions to the Imperial German Air Service. The card is in good condition, although some slight effects of silver oxide are visible on the right side, indicating that this card was likely produced in late 1917 or early 1918 when the use of silver in photographic production was restricted.

Alfred Keller's military career did not end with World War I. In the 1930s, he joined the newly formed Luftwaffe and achieved the rank of Generaloberst. In June 1940, he was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross, making him one of the few officers to receive both the Pour le Mérite and the Knight's Cross. Keller's leadership extended beyond the battlefield; he was a prominent figure in the Luftwaffe throughout World War II. After retiring at the war's end, he lived until 1974, becoming one of the oldest surviving officers to have received such distinguished honors.

The autograph on this card is in black ink, and while it is somewhat faint, it remains clearly legible. The historical significance of both the subject and the signature make this Sanke Card a remarkable addition to any collection.