German fighter pilot postcard – Oberleutnant Herr with signature

This original WWI-era postcard features a formal portrait of Oberleutnant Herr, a decorated German fighter pilot. Posed in his Prussian military tunic, Herr displays a stoic, confident demeanor, representative of the elite fighter pilots of the Imperial German Air Service. His uniform bears notable awards, including the Iron Cross 1st Class and the Prussian Pilot Badge, both symbols of valor and aviation skill during the Great War.

The inscription at the top reads: Unser erfolgreicher Kampf-Flieger Oberleutnant Herr ("Our successful fighter pilot Oberleutnant Herr"). Herr’s signature appears prominently in black ink on the postcard, adding a personal and historical touch to this exceptional piece. The sharp clarity of the portrait, along with the autographed detail, enhances its appeal for aviation and WWI collectors.

The reverse of the postcard shows remnants of mounting, which is typical for vintage postcards of this era. The wear does not detract from the significance or presentation of the image.

Historical significance:
Oberleutnant Herr likely served in one of the Jastas (fighter squadrons) during World War I, where German pilots became legends for their contributions to the air war. Fighter pilots were revered for their bravery and skill, often hailed as "knights of the sky" due to the chivalric nature of aerial combat. Postcards such as these were produced to celebrate their heroism and inspire morale on the home front.

Condition:

• Excellent image quality with sharp contrast
• Signature intact and bold
• Reverse shows light mounting remnants

This postcard is a rare and meaningful addition to any WWI aviation or autograph collection, offering insight into the lives and stories of Germany’s aerial aces.