Imperial German Naval Souvenir Flask – 1. Werft Division, Kiel – “Parole Heimath”

This is a scarce Imperial German Navy glass and metal souvenir flask, dating to the pre–First World War era, produced for sailors of the 1. Werft Division stationed at Kiel, one of the Kaiserliche Marine’s most important bases. These flasks were popular keepsakes purchased by sailors at the end of their service, both as functional drinking vessels and as reminders of their duty to the Kaiser and fleet.

The flask is encased in a black lacquered leather covering, with bold raised decoration in white-metal. The obverse bears the Imperial crown surmounting a large fouled anchor crossed with tools of labor, symbolizing naval dockyard service and the essential role of support divisions in keeping the fleet at readiness. Beneath is the engraved unit designation: “1. Werft Division Kiel.” Above runs the sentiment: “Zur Erinnerung an meine Dienstzeit” (“In remembrance of my service time”).

The reverse features an ornate crowned shield with the slogan “Parole – Heimath” (“Password – Homeland”), a patriotic phrase commonly used by German sailors and soldiers to signal their loyalty to Kaiser and country. Below is the toast: “Wer treu gedient hat seine Zeit / Dem sei ein volles Glas geweiht” (“He who has faithfully served his time / To him a full glass is consecrated”). This couplet was a popular saying among conscripts and is rarely seen so well preserved on surviving examples.

The flask retains its braided cord shoulder strap and its original metal screw-top cap with inner stopper—details often lost on surviving pieces. The glass body is intact, with expected age wear to the leather and painted lettering, consistent with over a century of age.

Historical Note:
The Werft-Divisionen (Dockyard Divisions) were based at Germany’s major naval ports (Kiel, Wilhelmshaven, and Danzig). Unlike front-line fleet units, they were responsible for dockyard labor, maintenance, and manning coastal fortifications, yet their sailors still endured the strict discipline and national service obligations of their sea-going comrades. Kiel, the home of the 1. Werft Division, became especially significant in 1918 as the center of the famous Kiel Mutiny, which triggered the German Revolution and the end of the monarchy. Souvenirs like this flask would have been purchased years earlier, during an era of Imperial pride and naval buildup under Kaiser Wilhelm II.

Condition: Very good for age. Leather covering with wear and scattered scuffing. Raised metal fittings with a handsome dark patina. Lettering still legible on both sides. Original cord and both cap components present. A rare and complete survival.

Dimensions: Approx. 7 in. tall (including cap).