German WWI Fighter Pilot Group Photo – Featuring autograph of Franz Mulzer, Pour le Mérite Winner

This remarkable Sanke postcard (No. 373) captures a distinguished group of Imperial German fighter pilots from World War I, including the notable Oberleutnant Franz Mulzer, a decorated ace and recipient of the Pour le Mérite (Blue Max).

The postcard’s printed caption at the bottom reads:
“Hauptmann Boelcke und Oberleutnant Immelmann im Kreise ihrer Kameraden.”
This translates to “Captain Boelcke and First Lieutenant Immelmann among their comrades,” identifying the presence of early German aviation icons, Oswald Boelcke and Max Immelmann, whose legacy shaped aerial combat tactics.

While Boelcke and Immelmann are referenced in the caption, the group photo also notably features Franz Mulzer, whose signature is boldly inscribed across the image, a rare and significant find for collectors.

About Franz Mulzer

• Service and Achievements: Mulzer was a prominent ace serving with Jasta 26. By the time of his death, he had achieved 10 confirmed aerial victories.
• Pour le Mérite: Mulzer earned Germany's highest military honor, the Pour le Mérite, on April 22, 1918, for his exceptional aerial prowess.
• Tragic End: His promising career ended tragically on June 26, 1918, when his aircraft suffered a structural failure during flight.

The Postcard

• Publisher: Postkarte W. Sanke, Berlin (No. 373).
• Signature: The front of the postcard features Mulzer’s autograph, which is prominently written across the image.
• Reverse: The reverse remains blank, with standard postcard markings including the outlined triangle and sunburst stamp box design.

Condition

• Condition: Excellent overall. The image retains sharp clarity with minimal wear, and the signature is clear and well-preserved.
• The reverse is clean, with no writing, maintaining its archival quality.

Historical Context

This postcard is a historically rich artifact, linking some of the greatest figures in the Imperial German Air Service. While the caption honors Boelcke and Immelmann, the inclusion of Franz Mulzer highlights the continuity of excellence among German aces during the war. Mulzer's scarce signature further enhances this item's appeal, as he perished shortly after achieving the pinnacle of recognition with the Pour le Mérite.

Dimensions

• Standard postcard size, approximately 3.5 x 5.5 inches.

This is a rare and highly sought-after addition to any collection focused on World War I aviation, German fighter aces, or Pour le Mérite recipients. A centerpiece-worthy artifact for enthusiasts of early military aviation history