Imperial German Navy S.M.S. Nautilus Cap Tally – Rare Original Example

This is a rare and original cap tally from the S.M.S. Nautilus, a vessel of the Imperial German Navy (Kaiserliche Marine). Cap tallies were an essential part of a sailor's uniform, affixed to the traditional navy cap (Tellermütze) and displaying the name of the ship on which they served.

The tally is black silk with machine-embroidered white lettering, spelling "S. M. S. NAUTILUS" in the characteristic Imperial German Navy font. The ends remain intact, and the silk retains a smooth, period-correct texture.

Historical Context:

The S.M.S. Nautilus was a gunboat of the Imperial German Navy, launched in the late 19th century and primarily used for overseas duties. Like many gunboats of the era, the Nautilus was involved in colonial service, patrolling German overseas territories, enforcing imperial policies, and participating in diplomatic missions.

Gunboats played a crucial role in showcasing German naval presence in foreign waters, particularly in the Pacific and African colonial stations. The presence of a named cap tally for the S.M.S. Nautilus suggests a sailor’s attachment to the vessel, likely during its operational years leading up to World War I.

Condition:

• Material: Black silk with embroidered white lettering.
• Condition: Excellent for its age, with minor signs of wear consistent with period usage.
• Lettering: Bright and well-preserved, with minimal fraying.
• Originality: 100% authentic, not a reproduction.

Collector’s Note:

Original cap tallies from specific Imperial German Navy vessels are highly sought after, particularly from gunboats and overseas service ships. This example from the S.M.S. Nautilus is an exceptional find, preserving a tangible piece of Germany’s naval expansion era.

Display & Preservation:

This cap tally is an ideal display piece for collectors of Imperial German militaria, particularly those interested in naval history. It can be framed alongside period photographs of Kaiserliche Marine personnel or paired with other naval relics from the era.