Clipped Signature – König Friedrich Wilhelm IV of Prussia

König Friedrich Wilhelm IV (1795-1861) was the eldest son and successor to König Friedrich Wilhelm III (1770-1840), the King of Prussia during the Napoleonic Wars. When Friedrich Wilhelm III died in 1840, Friedrich Wilhelm IV assumed Prussia’s throne. He served from 1840 until 1857, when he was struck down by a stroke and was unable to continue as King. His younger brother, Wilhelm, assumed the role of Prinzregent, and held that position until his older brother died in 1861. Wilhelm I then became King of Prussia in 1861, and later Kaiser in 1871. Today we are offering a clipped signature of Friedrich Wilhelm IV. It is boldly signed and dated 1841. The signature and date appear on a piece of paper that measures 5” x 2 1/4.”

Additional historical context:

• historical analysis: for more information on Friedrich Wilhelm iv and his reign, you can refer to The Royal House of Prussia.
• military games and movies: to understand the historical backdrop of Prussia during this era, consider watching:
  • all quiet on the western front (1930) - imdb
  • paths of glory (1957) - imdb
• ancestry resources: if you are tracing your Prussian or German heritage, these genealogy websites can be helpful:
  • Ancestry
  • MyHeritage

Translation of text in the photograph:

• "Berlin den 1. Dezember 1842." (Berlin, December 1, 1842)
• Signature: "Friedrich Wilhelm"

This detailed description along with the provided links and historical context offers a comprehensive overview for collectors and enthusiasts interested in prussian history and memorabilia.