This autographed Sanke Card Nr 647 features Leutnant Friedrich Ritter von Röth, a highly distinguished Bavarian fighter ace of World War I. Born on 29 September 1893, von Röth became renowned for his exceptional skills in aerial combat, particularly in the perilous task of shooting down enemy observation balloons. He achieved a total of 28 aerial victories, 20 of which were against these heavily defended balloons—an incredibly dangerous feat that required immense bravery and precision. His preference for targeting balloons was driven by his acknowledgment of his limitations as a marksman, contrasting with aces like Manfred von Richthofen, who were known for their sharpshooting skills.
Von Röth served in several Jagdstaffeln (fighter squadrons) during the war, including Jasta 34, Jasta 23, and as the commanding officer of Jasta 16. His outstanding contributions to the German war effort earned him multiple honors, including the prestigious Orden Pour le Mérite, which he received in August 1918. Additionally, after his death, he was posthumously awarded the Knights Cross of the Military Max Joseph Order, which ennobled his name to Friedrich Ritter von Röth, marking him as one of the elite among the German military.
This Sanke Card shows von Röth in his M-1915 Feldbluse, leaning confidently against the wing of an aircraft. Visible on his uniform are the Bavarian Pilot Badge, the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class, and a ribbon bar. The aircraft behind him, with a rudder bearing the Balkan Cross, suggests that this photograph was taken in 1918, possibly just before his receipt of the Pour le Mérite.
The signature, "Lt. d. Res. Röth," is boldly inscribed across the bottom of the card, overlapping his boots and the grass. The card itself is in mint condition, a rare and valuable piece, as it is believed to be the only Sanke Card produced featuring von Röth.
Unfortunately, von Röth’s life ended tragically soon after the war. Deeply affected by Germany's defeat and the subsequent fall of the monarchy, he took his own life on 31 December 1918. His legacy, however, lives on through historical pieces like this Sanke Card, which provides a tangible connection to one of the most courageous pilots of the Great War.
Condition:
- The card is in mint condition.
- The signature is clear and boldly inscribed in black ink.
- Some signs of wear are present on the back of the card, where it appears to have been removed from an album, but these do not affect the obverse or the signature.
Sources:
- The Aerodrome - Aces of the Great War
- Wikipedia - Friedrich Ritter von Röth
- Military History Encyclopedia on the Web
