German Empire Bread Ration Coupon Sheet – “Reise-Brotmarke” – Early WWI Period

Condition: Very Good, with visible folding and minor edge wear consistent with age
Dimensions: Approx. 4 x 3 inches
Material: Lightweight ration paper with printed black and red ink; Imperial eagle watermark and stamp visible

This authentic and rarely encountered Reise-Brotmarke (Travel Bread Coupon) originates from the early World War I period, issued by the Deutsches Reich as part of its domestic rationing system. Printed with the iconic Imperial German eagle and the phrase “Deutsches Reich”, these coupons entitled the bearer to specific gram allotments of bread—this particular example notes 10g and 40g of baked bread (“Gebäck”).

Ration cards like this one were typically issued to soldiers on leave or traveling civilians, especially during the height of wartime food shortages. The stamped serial number and intricate print patterns further authenticate its wartime use and strict administrative control.

The reverse retains its full backing—an unusual survival for paper ration items, which were often discarded or glued to collection booklets. This example is especially appealing for collectors of WWI-era homefront relics, economic history, or wartime ephemera.

Historical Note: Germany's 1914–1918 rationing program was among the most tightly controlled in Europe. By 1915, nearly all foodstuffs required government-issued coupons, and travel bread tickets such as these provided essential mobility access to food for those on the move.

Display Recommendation: Best preserved under UV-protected glass or stored flat in archival plastic. This piece would pair excellently with WWI soldier's personal documents, leave papers, or economic propaganda.