MILITARIA 

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German WWI Naval Collection - This is a nice collection of badges, medals, and foto, all belonging to the seaman pictured, Willi Klingmann.   It includes his foto on deck of his battleship in Wilhelmshaven Harbor by photographer, Fr. Kloppmann. Also included are his navy hat badge, Army and Navy Wound Badges,  stickpin from his Naval Academy in Wilhelmshaven, and Iron Cross Second Class and Hindenburg Cross of Honor with swords. I don't believe the latter two were ever worn, and he would have been unlikely to wear them on his naval uniform. The Naval Wound badge has no pin on the back, and it appears to us as if it was made without one, although we have no idea why. It does not appear as if one was there and lost. Collection: $150 + shipping.

German WWII Trench Art? - Perfect for sitting around drinking and BS ing with the guys about military, guns, dogs, hunting, fishing, or what have you, this is a WWII German 20 millimeter antiaircraft shell which has been cut off and belled out to form a one ounce shot glass.   Head stamp on the base reads clockwise with the Waffen Amt mark at 12:00: WaA 232, P120, 14K,  and 37. Undamaged and shines beautifully. $50 + shipping.

Der Stuermer, January 1, 1943 - An extremely rare and original copy of this most vehement anti-Jewish paper published in Nuremberg, Germany before and during World War II. This paper was published for 23 years by Julius Streicher, who was one of Hitler's most loyal associates until his death.   Streicher was not a military man nor a government functionary in the Third Reich, but was hanged at Nuremberg for the single reason he published this paper which bore the subtitle "German Weekly for the Fight for Truth." Streicher was a hard knuckle Nazi and active in street activity during the early years of the Nazi's fight against the communists and Jews. He was one of the few Nazis to remain totally loyal and committed to the end. His last words as he ascended the gallows were "Heil Hitler." Even many Nazis disliked him, regarding him as uncouth and vulgar. This issue is 13 inches by 18 inches and in excellent condition for its age, having no tears, holes, or missing pieces. Merely slight fading for its age. Pictures were taken indoors with flash - hence the blanching. 8 pages on various aspects of the Jews. Banner at the bottom says: "The Jews are our Misery," and banner at bottom of page 1 says: "The Jews are responsible for the War." Interesting article on Page 3 about "The Jews in Hollywood," showing among others the Jew, Charlie Chaplin with his new bride Paulette Goddard and discussing his penchant for sexual liaisons and marriages with pretty, very young Gentile girls. $100 + shipping.  

Original German WWII Luftwaffe Side Cap (early issue) - It would be hard to find a nicer example of this cap than this one.   Only minimal wear overall with no moth holes, tears, stains, etc.   Beautiful stitched Luftwaffe eagle  with swastika and roundel on front. Our digital camera is done for, so we had to use a cheap light camera, which shows little detail. The brown discolorations seen in different places on the cap in different views are only artifacts. $190 + shipping.

Original Luftwaffe Unit Plaque from Grossenhein, May 1941. Grossenhein is located on the Roeder River in the Meissen District of Saxony, about 30 KM northwest of Dresden.   For many years it has been a training field for German flyers. It was there that Manfred Baron von Richthofen (The Red Baron) trained to fly during WWI. This plaque is from a unit training there to fly against the British in WWII and says "In remembrance of Grossenhein May 1941. Much more impressive than the picture. The scratch marks are much less evident. $190 + shipping.

Original Foto of Germany's most Highly Decorated Warrior in WWII, Hans-Ulrich Rudel!!! - Today the word "hero" is used very loosely. Rudel was a true hero when the word still meant something.   Colonel Rudel was Commodore of the Stuka squadron, "IMMELMANN", and the only soldier in WWII to receive the highest bravery award Germany had to offer and which was designed specifically for him by Adolf Hitler, the Knight's Cross with gold Oak Leaves, swords and diamonds. This foto is an early one taken in 1942 before he won that award or the special bomber badge, which was designed for him by Hermann Goering after making over 2000 successful combat missions. (He actually made 2530!) He destroyed 519 Soviet tanks - seventeen of them in a single day! By war's end he was credited with 1 battleship, one cruiser, 70 landing craft, plus hundreds of motor vehicles, numerous artillery, anti-tank and anti-aircraft positions as well as armored convoys and bridges. He saved six Stuka crews(12 comrades) from capture or death. In trying to save another crew, he was wounded in his right shoulder and captured by the Russians from whom he fled with a bullet in his shoulder and escaped to German lines. Shortly after, he was back in the air flying again. Shot more than 30 times by ground fire, he took a direct hit over the Oder River and lost his right leg. He continued to fly missions, often with his stump bleeding.   Stalin honored his achievements by placing a 100,000 Ruble price on his head, and France's best flying ace, Pierre Clostermann, said, "What a shame he was not wearing our uniform."  An avid sportsman even before the war, he competed successfully afterward, even with an artificial leg against healthier competitors in tennis, shot put, mountain climbing, etc., and befriended President Juan Peron and developed Argentina's Air Force. Other pics show Rudel's squadron returning to base and Rudel's awards.  Original foto of Colonel Rudel  $75 + shipping.

German (Third Reich) Reichsarbeitsdienst(RAD)(Labor Corps) This organization was formed in the early 1930s to deal with the unemployment situation and was copied by President Roosevelt for the same purpose. It was roughly equivalent to Roosevelt's CCC and WPA of the Depression Era. Beginning in 1935 all German males were required to serve in the RAD for at least 6 months. Peacetime tasks of RAD included soil conservation, bridge and highway construction and related public works. With the onset of war in 1939, RAD received military training and became much like the American SeaBees. Gradually all RAD members were transferred into the German Armed Forces. Below are several RAD insignia.    RAD was formed by Dr. Robert Ley, who was a chemist for I.G.Farben and joined the banned Nazi Party early and was Gauleiter of the Rheinland. He was arrested 5 times in 1928 for Nazi Party activities, and was elected to Parliament in 1930. He was brought before the Nuremberg tribunal in 1945 and hanged himself in his cell. Note the RAD hat insignia in his foto above.

RAD The standard Labor Corps Cap insignia. Perfect condition. $75 + shipping.

RAD Long Service Medal - These were only awarded to high-ranking officials and are quite rare. Original ribbon and pin. $175 + shipping. 

German WWI 5-medal Bar from Braunschweig (Brunswick) with matching Field Service Ribbon bar - This is an interesting 5-medal bar with one quite rare medal. All ribbons and medals original and correct although slightly grimy and disheveled. They are accompanied by this serviceman's Field Service Ribbon Bar sans Austro-Hungarian Unity Ribbon.    From left to right the medals are: Prussian Iron Cross second class, Hindenburg Honor Cross with swords for combatants, Braunschweig Iron Cross for bravery and Service second class, twenty-five year Service Cross, Silver Prussia/Austria Unity Victory Medal. This last is quite rare and the only medal of its type we have had. Beautifully struck in silver with busts of Wilhelm of Prussia and Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria facing each other. Says in German on reverse: "Remembrance of the United Peoples of Austro-Hungary and Germany. They fight together in the War and will certainly bring home the Victory." This medal was rarely awarded and rarely seen but very attractive.  $235 + shipping.

French Foreign Legionnaire Medal for Vietnam (Dien Bien Phu) - Extremely rare medal created August 1953 and awarded to a French Foreign Legionnaire serving with the French Expeditionary Forces in Indochina (Vietnam) at the heroic battle of Dien Bien Phu.   When the Japanese were driven out of French Indo China in 1945, communist insurrectionists under Ho Chi Minh began their revolution to drive the French out. The French request for assistance from United States was rebuffed, and the French suffered an humiliating defeat at DBP which forced them to withdraw all their forces from Vietnam. This probably explains why the Americans received somewhat less than full cooperation from the French during their own adventure in the 1960s in that hapless country, forcing their own ignominious defeat and rout later.   This absolutely original gilded bronze medal is with suspension in the form of a dragon and has the face inscribed, "INDOCHINE" with a 7-headed serpent below and a tricephalic elephant above. Signed "L.M." and "J,C." below. Age toned. Would probably polish up nicely if one chose to do so. The ribbon is correct and original. Extremely rare and early type version and not a copy or restrike. Pictures are of French Legionnaires at Dien Bien Phu. $150 + shipping.

WWII German Iron Cross 2nd Klasse - Just purchased in Germany! Absolutely original Iron Cross from WWII. Magnetic center. 3-piece construction.   Original clean ribbon. This one comes with the original document of presentation to Guenter Josch. Document has one center fold with no tears or holes. Excellent. The Iron Cross was a "step award" which means the recipient won these sequentially. 2nd Class first, then First Class, then Knight's Cross, etc. $250 + shipping including document.

Nazi Local(Gau) High Party Leader Hat - Quite Rare!! This is a Gauleiter's dress hat in excellent condition except for some water stain and years of grime.   It's condition is so good, we believe it would stand up to a good cleaning if someone chose to do so. Labels are missing inside.   About size 7. The band is velvet, and what appears to be brushed areas in the rear view are, in reality, merely areas showing the grain of the velvet due to lighting.  $500 + shipping.

German WWII Submarine Battle Flag - Original!! - Excellent condition with no tears, moth holes, or significant stains.       Approximately 3 feet by 2 feet with attached 3 foot tie rope or lanyard. Quite heavy material, almost like canvas.   Double faced.   This flag has been used and has some light overall water-staining. Less bright than the picture suggests which was taken in bright sunlight. Picture was taken in woodlands, and the dark areas are merely shadows from branches, vines, etc. No dark areas in the flag. We are informed this flag was a sub flag although the same size flag was also used on Torpedo Boats as seen at the right of 2 flying the flag on maneuvers  and rarely on Panzer Tanks. However, the tie rope militates against this being anything but either Submarine or Torpedo Boat flag. $450 + shipping.              

GERMAN WWII HITLER JUGEND (HJ) HITLER YOUTH

The Hitler Youth was roughly equivalent to the American Boy Scouts, a youth organization whose goal was to teach young boys adult skills and values to prepare them to function as men in the German nation.   It was organized in 1922 and became a junior branch of the Sturmabteilungen (Storm Troopers), but was detached in 1932 when the National Socialists came to power. All German youth from the ages of 10 to 18 joined, the girls in the Jungmaedel(10-14) or Deutscher Maedel(14-21).

Hitler Jugend Fahrtenmesser (travel knife)- Excellent condition overall. Original black paint to scabbard, but a few dings to the black lacquer. This is one of those without the standard blade inscription "Blut und Ehre"(Blood and Honor) but does have the often missing RZM insignia and is marked "M7/42 1940" for the unit designation and year.   Blade has been sharpened in the past. $450 + shipping.

Hitler Jugend Pins - Here are 3 pins worn by HJ members. From top to bottom they are: 

Standard Unit Pin - This one has the RZM logo and unit designation M7/3. $70 + shipping.  

Porcelain HJ Pin Dated 21 Juni 1934 - From the International Youth Festival gathering of that year. This date was of enormous importance for the Nazis.   Hitler had been Chancellor for only 1 1/2 years and President Hindenburg was dying. Within a week would occur the "Night of the Long Knives" in which Ernst Roehm, who was challenging Hitler's authority, would die, and the SA would be brought under the SS to stop their uncontrolled violence. Pinback as above. $40 + shipping.

Aluminum HJ Pin Dated 1935 - From the World Youth Encampment of 1935. Marked on the reverse by the maker: "Oberhoff & Cof. Ludenscheid."  $25 + shipping.  

Hitler Jugend Kriegsmarine (Navy) patches - These are 3 entirely original patches for those senior Hitler Jugend members attached to and planning to enter the Kriegsmarine.   Completely undamaged except for slight grime from years of storage. Each has the original RZM sticker on the reverse as shown on that in the center. Obverse has 1 star like that on the left. $36 each + shipping.

German WWII Afrika Korps Dust Goggles - Rare item! Completely original and with original packaging complete.   Never used.   The cap on the dummy is, of course, US Marine Corps. Goggles fold with cardboard covering and are stored in the cardboard envelope which can be seen at base of the dummy. $20 + shipping.

World War I German Glass Photo Slides (1914) - Produced at the outset of "The Great War," These 10 slides were designed to be viewed with a viewer which we do not have.   We have produced CDs, however,  showing all 10 pictures which we will sell for $5 each + shipping. In the picture at right you can see the box with one slide (Serbian Artillery) alongside it.  The 10 photo/slides are: 1. KAISER WILHELM ADDRESSES THE THRONG. 2. VIENNA: DECLARATION OF WAR BEFORE THE WAR MINISTRY. 3. BERLIN: ANNOUNCEMENT OF WAR. 4. AUSTRIANS LINING UP FOR WAR DUTY. 5. BERLIN: WELCOMING THE CROWN PRINCE. 6. AUSTRIAN OFFICERS AT KAISERHOCH(Shown Left). 7. AUSTRIAN MOTORCYCLE CORPS (SHOWN). 8. SERBIAN ARTILLERY(SHOWN). 9. WARSHIP ON RIVER AT BELGRADE. 10. AUSTRIAN AUTOMOBILE CORPS. We will sell the collection of all 10 slides for $65 + shipping.

German WWII Gas Mask and Container - Just came in from Switzerland. Absolutely all original and undamaged except for a few minor dings to the snout.   All straps complete and undamaged with no wear or frizzing. Completely functional with two additional replacement eye pieces in their original wrappings,which can be seen in foreground of picture at left. Original stamped Wehrmacht eagle with swastika quite clear on top of the nosepiece. In the press foto at right, taken in Smolensk, Russia by Heinrich Hoffmann, of German troops mopping up, one can see several being carried in various positions. $175 + shipping.

German WWI 3-Medal Bar from Wuertemburg - This is a pristine bar from the German State of Wuertemburg.   From left to right the medals are: Iron Cross Second Klasse, SILVER medal for bravery and loyalty with bust of King Wilhelm and Hindenburg Honor Cross  with swords for combatants. Medals and ribbons in excellent condition.  $135 + shipping. 

German World War I Gold Wound Badge - The German wound badges were awarded based upon a complicated formula of parameters which determined whether the badge was Black, Silver, or Gold - Gold being the highest grade.   Factors considered were the severity of the wound, number of times awarded, and circumstances of the action involved. Gold badges are quite uncommon, and this is the first of this type we have had for sale. Undamaged except for slight tarnish, especially on reverse. This would clean up if you wish and provide a beautiful piece.  $80 + shipping.

Germany World War I Cavalryman's Medals and Military ID - Splendid collection which belonged to Feldwebel (Sergeant) Melchior Unger, who served in an Ulan (Cavalry) Regiment from 1911-1919.   Included are his Iron Cross II Class, Hindenburg Honor Cross with swords,  Prussian War Service Cross, Kyffhaeuser Veterans' Medal 1914-1918 and 2 small ribbons for the EKII and Hindenburg medals to be worn with his field uniform and butten hole in a suit jacket.   Also included are a foto postcard of his unit, 2nd Wuertemberg Regiment  King Wilhelm I No. 20 1st Squadron. Sergeant Unger is shown with the hat, center,  wearing the Iron Cross. The ID bears the stamp of his unite and has multiple entries from the war's end through his discharge. $170 + shipping.

Serbia Medals on a Funeral Pillow - Here are 3 uncommon medals and a pin from World War I and the 1912 Balkan War.   From left to right they are 1912 Balkan War medal during which Serbia wrested control from the Ottoman Turks (see history with the duplicate of this medal below).   Second is the Albanian Campaign Medal (Retreat to Albania). Third is the 1913-1918 Commemorative Cross, and at right is an Albanian Campaign Veterans pin dated 1939 and bearing the bust  of Alexander. The mount for the medals is nicely sewn but not professionally. There is a rusty safety pin on reverse by which the bar was attached to the funeral pillow. $225 + shipping.

BAVARIA (BAYERN)

Located in Southern Germany. In 1180 the Duchy of Bavaria was given to the Count of Wittelsbach by the Emperor. He is the ancestor of all who ruled until 1918. The title of King was granted to Bavaria in 1805. 

Original Matching Pair of Officer's Epaulettes from Bavarian Militia circa 1810 -  Napoleonic period. 17 cm long. Excellent condition for their age.   Under the reign of King Maximillian Joseph. Germany was a loose confederation of independent States until 1871 when Otto von Bismarck brought them all under the Prussian King and created the German Empire - much as Abraham Lincoln did in 1866 by destroying the Republic of United States and creating the American Empire, but without the necessity of a Civil War.   Thus the Bavarian Militia was the Bavarian Army at the time of these epaulettes. Slight oxidation can be seen at the edges of the brass trim. The white specks on the blue material was simply dust and was brushed off after the pics were taken. A few minor moth holes can be seen on reverse. $310 + shipping.

German (Bavaria) Veteran's Badge Franco-Prussian War (1870-72) - Beautiful and striking badge with Iron Cross, swords, and Bavarian Lion and shield of Bavaria which says (in German) "Bavarian Warriors' Organization."    Dated 1874 at the end of the Franco Prussian War. Reverse signed by Deschler & Sohn manufacturer and "Munich - 9." $65 + shipping.

Bavarian Freikorps Arm Badge -  Bavarian Watch was under the control of the German WWI hero, Colonel Ritter von Epp.   After WWI, the Jews and other communists brought Germany to its knees by forcing the Kaiser's abdication and ruining the economy and social structure. Various freikorps (militias) arose throughout the country and Colonel von Epp was much like the US Confederate Cavalry General, Nathan Bedford Forrest, who arose after the War Among the States and became first Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan to restore order in the South during the horrors of "Reconstruction." Von Epp led the group from 1918 until 1925 when he and many other freikorps volunteers joined the fledgling Nazi Party under Adolf Hitler. Badge in excellent condition. $250 + shipping.

Bavarian WWI King Ludwig's Cross - Instituted January 7, 1916, this iron cross bears the likeness of King Ludwig III and was awarded for exceptional service to the military in WWI.   Original ribbon in great shape. $70 + shipping. 

Imperial German WWI Medal Bar (Bavarian) - This bar contains, from left to right, Bavarian Service Cross with swords, Iron Cross Second Class, and Bavarian 9 year service medal.   All 3 medals are original and in excellent condition. The original ribbons are slightly soiled and show a little wear in places. $170 +shipping.

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German WWI 3-Medal Bar from Oldenburg - This nice WWI 3 medal bar contains a choice Iron Cross (3-piece magnetic) by the famous maker, Wilm from Berlin.   Second is a pristine Hindenburg Cross with swords marked (0.2) on reverse. And, finally a choice Friedrich August Iron Cross from the principality of Oldenburg. These latter are rather uncommon because of Oldenburg's rather small size and the fact this cross was only awarded for 2 years through 1916. This bar has an unusual mounting. The soldier who wore this  mounted the 3 medals on a bar designed for 2 medals only making the bar slightly shorter than the usual 3-medal bar. $280 + shipping.

German WW2 Custom Dress Bayonet with Stag Handles, Frog and Portepee - Original. 7 3/4" very bright steel blade in pristine condition.    Marked "Karl Julius Krebs Solingen." German stag horn grips, tight rivets, contained in original black painted steel scabbard to fit with dark brown dress frog. Excellent example in overall fine used condition. Correct Wehrmacht portepee. We have photographed this item in both indoor lighting and sunlight to try to give accurate impression of coloration. Sunlight blanches it. We were unable to get a clear picture of the blade due to its brilliance. $360 + shipping. 

We have recently acquired a small group of medals and awards from Nazi Germany. These came from estates and collections in Europe and are entirely original. Becoming increasingly hard to find today due to politically correct attitudes. Here are, from left to right:                 

Luftschutz Medal - Only one of these we have seen complete with original ribbon. SOLD

War Service Cross (Kriegsverdienstkreuz) Medal With Swords - Awarded to military who showed exceptional bravery in combat. $55 + shipping.

War Service Cross Medal Without Swords - Awarded primarily to non-military personnel who showed exceptional bravery in assisting the war effort. The youngest recipient was a 10 year old boy from Dortmund who showed exceptional bravery in spotting airplanes attacking Germany. $25 + shipping.

Eastern Front Medal - Awarded to those servicemen who served on the Eastern Front against Russia. - $40 + shipping. 

German Army Service Bar 4 Years With Anschluss Medal - Medal on the left is surprisingly uncommon. It is for 4 years service in the Wehrmacht. Medal on the right was awarded for the first military activity of Germany.   Pre-WWII. Dated on back "March 13, 1938, the date the German Army marched into Austria and annexed it into the Third Reich. Despite Hollywood's treatment of this action in movies such as THE SOUND OF MUSIC, they were welcomed by enthusiastic crowds without bloodshed or resistance. There had been a plebiscite in Austria showing the majority wished to be incorporated into the German Reich. No shots were fired. $210 + shipping. 

German Army Sudetenland Medals - The second of Germany's military activities prior to WWII. The Sudetenland was taken from Germany after WWI by the victors and incorporated into Czechoslovakia , a nation which had not existed before the war.   Czechs and Germans had serious problems in assimilating after this action. Freikorps (militias) arose in this area as well as throughout the former German nation to combat the communists and others who were preying on ethnic Germans, and Hitler decided to annex the Sudeten Germans into the Reich. Throughout September, 1938, he attempted to come to an agreement with the Czechs, and Britain's Chamberlain said he could have the Sudeten Germans, but the Czechs proved intransigent. In October his troops marched into the Sudetenland and it was annexed. Here are 2 medals awarded to German soldiers who took part. On the left is a medal which has probably never been mounted or worn. On the right is another which shows some wear from wearing and which also has the elusive Prague bar depicting Prague which was awarded to those who served in the Czech capitol. Left: $120 + shipping; Right: $150 + shipping.

Italo-German Campaign Medal - First issue of this medal instituted by the Italian government to honor the deeds of Rommel's Afrika Korps. Issued 1942. Only awarded to German troops who served in North Africa.  De Marchis designed the medal and his name is embossed below the crocodile's head on the outer edge.   Lorioli Milano, the manufacturer's maker's mark is found above the crocodile's left leg. We have always felt this is an exceptionally well designed medal. Written in Italian and the Italian fasces on left and written in German with the swastika on right. Even the ribbon utilizes the colors of both countries with the white center bar serving for both tricolors. $205 + shipping. 

German Mother's Cross - Rather than encourage businesses to leave the country leaving nothing but service jobs and rather than encourage all sorts of legal and illegal immigrants to come   to the country to take "jobs Americans won't do," Hitler encouraged Germans to procreate, providing Citizens and workers to maintain Germany's labor pool and preserve her culture for the future.   This medal was awarded to German women who had children. It was awarded in 3 classes: bronze, silver, and gold dependent on the number of children the woman produced. Dated 16 December 1938 on reverse and signed "A. Hitler," this medal including all enamel is completely undamaged. Comes with more than a foot of original ribbon which has worn through and been re-stitched. Some age grime. $80 + shipping.

Italian Cavalry Gorget circa 1680 - Here's a real rarity! A genuine cavalry gorget (throat protector) intended for use in combat. Later, in the 18th Century, these were intended for display and hung from the neck by chains or ribbons - primarily on officers.   They continued to be worn through World War II and became increasingly smaller with time. But in the late 17th century, with increased use of gunpowder, they  were used with chain mail or leather upper garments to protect from swords, axes, etc., which were still in use - primarily in the cavalry. You can see the type of armor and battles in which ones like this were used on the front of this one. From the style, this is most likely from Milan, which was under control of the Holy Roman Empire, although this could also be Austrian. It is 8 inches wide and about 6 1/2 inches high and heavy. Made from low grade steel or iron. 2 obvious holes on sides were for attachment. There is also a tiny pinhole at upper right which is undoubtedly a casting imperfection. Great overall age patina is undisturbed. Slight rust can be seen - primarily on the back. $300 + shipping. 

German Stormtrooper (Sturmabteilungen) Gorget 1929-1933 - This is a gorget like the one above but 250 years later.   This one is for an SA officer and exclusively decorative. It can be dated fairly precisely by the symbol in the center: an eagle grasping a wreath with a stylized swastika composed of 2 SSs for the Schutstaffel.   This symbol was obsolete and replaced after June 14, 1934, the Night of the Long Knives, when the SA was reduced in size and brought under Himmler's SS. Nickle-plated copper and brass, completely original and undamaged although the upper portion seems to show dents which are merely foto artifact. Reverse shows a few wear spots to the original felt backing. Since this piece is so rare it may have been worn by an SA officer of whom we have all heard. Clip on reverse for attachment is stamped "D.R.G.M." although it cannot be read in the foto. $700 +shipping.

WWII German M35 Camo Helmet Stahlhelm "ET64" - 100% Original WWII German combat helmet with the rarely seen turtle shell camo finish in tan and brown. Heavy and solid helmet shell is marked "ET64."   Complete with washers and rivets marked "1941."   This is definitely an M 35, unlike the M 40 and M 42 models. The air vents are actually rivets, not stamped in. No helmet liner or chin strap. $473 + shipping.

Prussian(Imperial German) Naval Cutlass circa 1870 (Franco/Prussian War) - Nice well-preserved cutlass with leather sheath.  Slight damage to end of sheath can be seen in the fotos. 3 0r 4 stitches broken at that point as well. Some age cracking to the leather. Solid brass handle and fittings. Original felt stop on the handle for the scabbard in excellent condition. Curved, heavy, flatback blade measures 25 3/4 inches, overall 31 inches. Bannerman's lists this as a German cutlass. Blade unsharpened with two tiny nicks toward end which cannot be seen but merely felt with a finger. No rust, just orange/brown patina. Maker's mark on one side of blade and other side says "Beck & Sohne, Wien(Beck and Sons Vienna)." $285 + shipping.

Imperial German Helmet circa 1900. Highly sought by collectors, these were used throughout the Franco/Prussian War and WWI.   This one is missing the chin strap and rosettes. Leather portion has several age cracks and chips as can be seen.      Inner liner is present and in good condition. Front seal is held on by paper clips which suffices for display but could be improved upon if the purchaser desires. $460 + shipping.  Below the helmet is a WWI Bavarian medal bar described below.

1827 British Infantry Officer's Sword - The iron hilt is in perfect condition with a nice light gray age patina. The obverse guard has the stringed bugle of the rifle brigades.   The grip is black fishskin also in perfect condition with all wires intact.   The slightly curved single-edged blade has not been sharpened, and the point is undamaged. However the blade has been over cleaned. This was undoubtedly done during its working life. Often officers' orderlies would clean the blades with sand. For this reason, after several cleanings, there are no rust pits at all, but also much of the original etched design has been wiped out. The obverse ricasso has the gold proof mark for Charles Reeves of London who made many of these swords. This sword is complete with its original iron scabbard, also in near perfect condition with only one shallow dent which can be seen in the pics. This sword most certainly saw action in the mid-Victorian period in the Crimea, Khartoum, South Africa, India, China, or elsewhere. $400 + shipping. 

British Queens South Africa Medal with Paardeberg Bar (1901) - Awarded to N. Solomon of the Alexandria Mounted Troops.   This unit had been in the Boer War the year previously. Inscribed name, etc. on edge.   Obverse shows head of Queen Victoria. Reverse shows Britannia extending wreath to the troops. Warship at right. $240 + shipping.

WWII Japanese Army Officer's Canteen - This canteen looks great and displays well. The strap is dried out and is missing a couple inches of the end, but 3 adjustment holes are still there.   The cover has some wear and period repair. Still a great original canteen. It was made by the Nigiriya company, which made regular soldiers' canteens as well. $80 + shipping.

WWII Japanese Battleship Nagato - 2 splendid foto postcards showing the battleship Nagato on the high seas and with the crew at dockside. Planes above.   Original and undamaged and unwritten. We have always been especially impressed with Jap battleships. They look like huge pagodas coming across the water. The pair for $20 + shipping.

WWII Japanese Navy Seaman's Hat with Tallies - Excellent condition! No wear, moth holes, etc. in this fine woolen hat.   Two tallies hang from back with anchors. We don't read Japanese.   If anyone does, please tell us what is written on the front. We believe it should give the name of the ship on which this lad served. Fotos were taken in bright sunlight which blanched out much of the color in parts. For example, the label inside is in perfect condition with all characters clearly identifiable,   but pic shows very few of the characters. $350 + shipping.

Japanese Imperial Medals and Orders (4) in Original Boxes - All four of these are in original pristine condition. As can be seen, the boxes show varying states of wear, but all 4 are in good condition with clasps and hinges undamaged. It is impossible to get excellent photos of all 4 medals at the same time which are of varying brightness. If you are unfamiliar with these medals, we can give some details. From left to right the 4 medals pictured are:

Order of the Rising Sun 6th Class - Both Military and Civilian. Middle hanger is green Paulonia leaves with purple blooms - not gold as in pic due to flashback SOLD.

Order of the Golden Kite 7th Class - Military only and was made obsolete after WWII. $190 + shipping.

Order of the Sacred Treasure 5th Class - Both Military and Civilian. Rarely found in this condition. All red jewels are present as well as not cracked or even faded! SOLD.

Red Cross Medal - virtually all military personnel belonged to Red Cross and wore this medal. $45

WORLD WAR II GERMAN NSKK DISPLAY - Early in Third Reich History, the Sturmabteilungen (Storm Troops or Brown Shirts) were formed to protect Hitler and other party speakers from being attacked by communists and Jews. Hitler had had extensive experience with these groups and wrote about his plans for the SA to combat them in MEIN KAMPF while he was locked up in Landsberg Prison in the 1920s.   Shortly after their formation, many members of SA, who happened to own a motorcycle, or, better yet, a motorcycle with side car were recruited into NSKK (Kraftfahr Korps or Motor Corps). These SA members were rewarded with a special status and slightly different uniform and accoutrements - the most noticeable of which was a black scabbard for their dagger rather   than the brown one worn by rank and file SA members.   Since the members were not supplied with a dagger by the party, but had to buy their own, many simply painted their scabbards black to save money. The dagger and scabbard shown here are one of these. This scabbard started life brown, but was later painted black as one can see by removing the fittings. (SOLD)  After the start of WWII, many of these guys were formed into military units for service and are usually the ones seen in movies driving a motorcycle and sidecar. In the picture at left of 2 blades showing   their makers' respective logos, that at left is the NSKK dagger. That at right is the SA dagger shown below on this page. 

SA/NS Driver from the NSKK Motor Korps (Foto/Postcard) - Original and in pristine condition. Came from the estate of a family in Mannheim, Germany who had it pressed in a book for 75 years!   Shows a very clear shot of his motorcycle goggles and unit number on his collar (12/M65). This means he was from the 12th squadron of the 65th motorstandarte (regiment). Clear picture of his uniform including his kepi and shoulder straps with their twisted design pattern. 5 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches. Reverse blank. $20 + shipping.

NSKK Dog Tags - These WWII German dog tags are quite rare - less common than even the Waffen SS dog tags.  They are both in excellent condition.   The discolorations are not rust or corrosion but are the original condition of the steel. At top is the NSKK 1st Brigade, and below is the NSKK Motor Group L Auslaender (Foreigner) tag. $75 each + shipping.

8 Very Scarce Fotos of NSKK activities. - These are all pre-war and came from the same source in 1937.   Therefore, we are reluctant to break them up. The left 2 are larger, 3 1/2 inches by 4 1/2 inches. We will sell the pair for $60 + shipping. The right six are snapshot size. We will sell them individually for $12 or all 6 for $60 + shipping. 

World War II Japanese Army Display - We are trying something new for us and will welcome feedback.    We plan to display items together which would have been found together by nationality and period. If this first attempt works we will try others.   We plan to sell individual pieces from the display up to and including the entire display. This first attempt we will call Sergeant Kobayashi. Keep watching him!! We will be adding pictures and prices over the next few weeks. All items for sale are genuine, original items of the period.

Japanese Army Sergeant's Collar Stripes - (see both fotos) - $12/pair + shipping.

WWII Japanese Army Uniform Service Tunic Jacket(above) - Summer uniform. Late War issue. Well made with silk lining. Inside pockets. No stamps, but no wear or damage either. Probably unissued. Guaranteed original and no reproduction. Medium size, but remember Orientals are smaller size on average. Comes with the Sergeant's stripes. $110 + shipping 

Antique Japanese 3-Man Bomb Plate - Very rare early Showa era Japanese Imperial Army NIKUDANSANYUUSHI (3-men bomb) plate.   These guys were the original KAMIKAZE, running into their target holding a bomb.   Anything related to Nikudansanyuushi is quite rare today. These 3 men are now war gods in Japan. (See the foto of the monument during WWII.) This is a beautiful plate and completely undamaged. Measures approx. 4.5 inches in diameter. There is a small Japanese character on the underside which is not readable - probably even by someone who reads Japanese.  $100 + shipping. 

British Sudan Medal with Khartoum Bar!! (1896-98) Gladstone's foolish policy toward Egypt and the Sudan, coupled with Mohammed Ahmed's rise as the "Mahdi" (Muslim Messiah) and his Jihad against the Egyptians in 1881 was to embroil the Briitish in an on-going adventure in Sudan for the next 2 decades.     The popular General Charles Gordon was sent in without backup to extricate the Egyptians from harm. What resulted was the death of Gordon and the massacre of every Egyptian and Englishman in Khartoum, and ultimately the collapse of Gladstone's Liberal government. This medal is un-named, but, according to Sydney Vernon, the Khartoum bar was only awarded to British troops. $230 + shipping.

Nazi Party Storm Trooper (Sturmabteilung) Dagger - The most highly collectible dagger from the Third Reich. All original screws present.   This dagger belonged to a Hessian member from the Hesse Gau(District).   Marked "He" on reverse of lower handle crossbar for Hesse. "Alles fuer Deutschland" (Everything for Germany) inscribed on obverse of blade. Distal end of blade has some repaired damage and most nickle plating of distal scabbard bracket is worn off. Otherwise quite good condition. $530 + shipping.

Confederate Dirk circa 1850 with strong Southern Roots - Charming pre-Civil War 9 1/2 inch dirk with 5 1/2 inch cruciform blade, steel bulbous quillon, and solid brass handle.  Remarkable provenance with this one! Purchased from Cowan's Historic Americana in Cincinnati who had obtained it in the estate for auction from an old Louisiana family.  Strong Southern ties. This dirk is a classic style seen throughout Southern USA in the 1850s with coffin-shaped handle and was widely used by Confederate soldiers and seamen in the War of Northern Aggression. Super tight with nice weight and balance and a good feel to it. There are a few nicks and dings from period use and an overall nice patina. We are certain the handle would polish to a bright brass hue, but are reluctant to do that.  $225 + shipping.

Japanese Manchukuo (Manchuria) Order of the Auspicious Clouds(SOLD), Order of the Pillars of State and Manchuria Empire Foundation Medal - In 1931, concerned about the growing power of the communists in both China and Russia on their West, the Imperial Japanese Army sanctioned the seizure of Manchuria as a barricade.  On March 1, 1932 the Independent State of Manchukuo was founded and Henry Pu Yi, last of the Manchu emperors of China, was called from retirement to become head of state, thus forming a puppet state of Japan's - much like United States' puppets in present day Iraq, Afghanistan, and Lebanon. But the Japanese had better success at administering theirs. The following three medals are rare and from that puppet state. We also have two medals and documents from a soldier, Tanaka Churenichi-san, who was engaged in the "Manchurian Incident" April 29, 1934. 

Order of the Pillars of State 6th Class with 2 silver bars on ribbon. -This order was called the Chu Kuo Chang and was established September 14 1936.  It was awarded in 8 classes and is exactly equivalent to the Japanese Order of the Sacred Treasure.  The design is of 4 pillars of the style used in oriental palaces and temples. Reverse has 4 characters meaning Order of Merit Decoration.  Ribbon shows some wear. $500 + shipping. 

Narvik Shield (1940) - In March 1940 Churchill incautiously let drop some hints to neutrals that he planned to lay mines along Norway's western border  forcing Hitler to attack Norway from the South,   and he would use Hitler's attack to justify  driving   directly East to capture neutral Sweden's ore fields and cut off Germany's supplies from the North. Hitler responded with one of his early blitzkriegs, landing small forces at 8 sites along Norway's western border and beating the British to the punch by 18 hours and forcing their invasion force to turn tail and run.  This pristine shield is one of the best we have seen worn by those who were active in this campaign. Complete and undamaged with original cloth and paper backings.   $185 + shipping.                                                     

Krim Shield (1941-1942) - The Crimea was a huge action as the  Germans drove South to capture the oil fields.    It has been the site of numerous such battles, such as when the British attempted to wrest its control from the Turks in the 1854 Crimean War.  This shield is in excellent condition. Small piece of original paper backing on reverse. Front shows the Crimean peninsula extending into the Black Sea. $220 + shipping

Kuban Shield - On the East side of the Sea of Azov, the Kuban River flows into that sea, and this was the location of the battles of Kuban for which the Kuban Shield (1943) was awarded.   The shield depicts the geography of the respective area. $210 + shipping

FASCIST ITALY

We have recently been fortunate enough to acquire a substantial part of a large collection of WWII Italian paraphernalia confiscated from Italian soldiers in East Africa after World War II. Several of these items are rarely ever seen since Italy changed sides before the end of the war and most were destroyed. A few important facts to remember: The Kingdom of Italy was ruled by the House of Savoy under King Victor Emanuel III, and the State symbol was the Savoy Cross and shield on the breast of the Savoy eagle. Benito Mussolini headed the Fascisti Party, whose symbol was the famous fasces or "bundle of sticks" and axe, which was the symbol of the ancient Roman Empire.  The Fascists  gradually consolidated their power from the people throughout the early 1920s, until in late October 1922 he led his famous "March On Rome." The objective of the March was seizure of power and establishment of a Cabinet with at least 6 Fascisti Ministers in the most important posts. The fascists never intended to dethrone the king, and, in fact, Mussolini obtained an agreement with Victor Emanuel, which allowed Il Duce to wield all effective executive power. Virtually all medals from this period bear dates expressing "so many years after the March on Rome (October 27, 1922)" or "year so-and-so of the Fascist Era."  

Italy Fascist WWII MVSN Hat -  Great original MVSN (Milizia Volontaria Sicurezza Nationale or National Security Militia) from World War II.   Excellent condition. Extremely minor moth damage. Nice bullion fascist emblem on front.   $350 + shipping.

Fascist ID for Blackshirt - With stamps, fasces, and symbols of Savoy. Well worn and slight tatters at edges. $20 + shipping. 

Large Press Foto Fascist Dagger Salute (Mussolini in foreground) - This foto was too large to put on our scanner and resolution with a digital camera left something to be desired,  so we hope you won't mind turning your head to get a view of this panoramic display of Mussolini leading a fascist dagger salute to a visiting German dignitary in Rome on May 18, 1938. $30 + shipping. 

Pair of Medals from Mussolini's Abyssinian War (1935-1936) - The opening of the Suez Canal gave the Red Sea new importance. Britain invited Italy to occupy the port of Massawa, and by 1889 the Italian Colony of Eritrea was constituted by Royal decree. By 1935, the British had bombarded Alexandria and  French bayonets held Morocco. Mussolini reasoned  there could be no objection to his holding an analogous area in East Africa which the British had refused to allow into the League of Nations. This war was the beginning of Mussolini's downfall. It alienated both the French and British and forced him to form an alliance with Hitler against the Western Allies. These two medals are the War Merit Cross and Ethiopian Campaign medals from Mussolini's East African venture in 1935-1936. Mussolini's name in script on reverse of the latter. $55 + shipping for the pair.  

Rare Mussolini Medal from Italy's entry into WWII - This unusual medal also has the fasces in enamel   on the reverse and the date "ANNO XIX" (1941). Mussolini bust on obverse in military   helmet. $115 + shipping. 

SIGNAL Magazine, 1941, 1942, 1944 - Here are three excellent copies of Signal  Magazine published during WWII by the German Publishing Co. in Berlin and, taken together, giving an  excellent overview of WWII from the German perspective. The format and size is much like that of LIFE MAGAZINE  in United States at the time. Each has an in depth article on a military campaign of importance at the time, and then there are articles on the latest European fashions, advertisements, cartoons, etc. This magazine was designed to be read by people throughout the Greater Reich. Thus, the 1941 issue is in Dutch to be sent to the Netherlands; the 1942 issue is in German for circulation in Germany proper, and the 1944 issue is in French for circulation in Vichy France.  

October 1, 1941 issue is published shortly after the capitulation of Poland and before USA  has entered the war. It is therefore devoted primarily to the sea battles and preparations to defend continental Europe fro attack via the North Sea. Cover shows sailors emerging from a submarine hatch. If you read German, you shouldn't have much trouble with the Dutch language. $25 + shipping.

November 1, 1942 issue is published in German early during the campaign for Stalingrad and  has an excellent 10 page article with many explicit pictures of the Infantry's Odyssey  in the East, marching first East, then North, then back to the West, then South, and then back to the East over a 50 kilometer area. Also a great article on the end of Japan's war in China and some artwork on Japanese hunting.  $30 + shipping.

The 1944 issue is in French, and, not too strangely, is silent on any Allied Invasion and difficult to date as to month. There is an excellent article on the activities of the Waffen SS including the Estonian and other Eastern members' campaign in the East. $25 + shipping. 

All three magazines for $75 + shipping.

French Morocco Medal from WWI - Those who have seen the movie "The Wind and the Lion" with Sean Connery will recall President Theodore Roosevelt sent an  expeditionary force to Morocco to rescue an American woman from the tribal chieftan, Raisuli the Magnificent, who had kidnapped her.  Several European colonial powers decided to join in the fun including Britain, Germany, and France. This resulted in Sultan Abd-ul-Aziz IV being deposed and Morocco becoming a French protectorate from 1912 until 1956 when it regained its freedom. This medal was made in France and issued by the French puppet state of Morocco for bravery in the Great War. It is minus the ribbon but is in excellent condition otherwise. All of the enamel is intact, although some of the red outline to the star appears missing in the scan, but it is not. The gold wash, however, on the suspension wreath is almost completely gone. $70 + shipping.

WWII Japanese Hinomaru Flag Signed and Translated by 4 People!! - Beautiful "meatball" flag with essentially no damage. Silk with no holes, two corner ties, and only slight discoloration in lower right corner. 39 1/4" by 28." Signed by Simoban  Seiko, Sigeko Nakagawa, K.Fukau. Also says "Lakeside Biwa My Lived at Sakamoto." Strange that so much is written in English during WWII. Perhaps these lads were Americans who expatriated to fight for Japan? Would make an interesting topic for research.  $95 + shipping.

British Northwest Frontier Medal (Punjab) - From what is today in Pakistan! Obverse King George Vth; reverse a British outpost and "INDIA."  Medal and original ribbon in excellent condition. Inscribed on edge to: "12526 SE Poy 8 Anta SINGH . 1-14 Punjab Regiment." Bar says " Northwest Frontier (Pakistan) 1935." $80 + shipping.

                                              BULGARIA

Bulgaria was one of the great old kingdoms of Eastern Europe. Ferdinand I was its king from 1879 to 1918 at the end of WWI.  This was a period of turmoil for the country. Russia disapproved of  Ferdinand, who sought to appease    the Russians by adopting a pro-Russian policy. As a result, Stefan Stamboulov, the Prime Minister, was assassinated in the streets of Sofia by pro-Russian exiles. We offer 2 rare medals from this period - both in excellent condition.

First is the Order of St. Alexander,  

and Second is the Military Order for Bravery Type I dated 1879, the date of Ferdinand's accession to the throne.  We also have the Type II Bravery Order dated 1915. It is not pictured, but ask if you are interested.  St. Alexander Order is $250 + shipping. Military Bravery Order is $175 + shipping.                                                           

                                                   STALINGRAD 

Stalingrad was one of the fiercest and most costly battles in human history - both in terms of destruction and human lives lost. From September 1942 until February 1943, the German 6th Army was surrounded by the Soviet big Red Army hundreds of thousands were killed, imprisoned, or simply were never heard from again. The German General von Paulus cravenly surrendered his entire command and started giving propaganda statements for use by the Soviets. Today the city is renamed Volgagrad, and we have made contact with an organization there called Quest  (POISK in Russian),  who are digging through the remains and finding enormous amounts of old lost items. They are also finding many bodies and giving them a Christian burial, using the funds generated by sale of items found.  

German Silver Wound Badge Found in Stalingrad - Unbelievably good condition after more than 65 years underground!!    Only 2 small corrosion spots on the swastika can be seen.    Pin on reverse is original also, but has been repaired. The silver wound badge was instituted on the very first day of World War II - September 1, 1939 and was awarded for: Wounded 3 or 4 times in fighting an air raid, or serious injury in battle. This relic carries some great history provenance  $95 + shipping.

German Panzer Assault Badge  - Fantastic condition for having been buried for 60 years! A great piece of history. $175 + shipping. 

SOVIET Artillery Shell Trench Art found in a Bunker near Stalingrad. - This is a cup of some sort for water, probably.  It seems too large for Vodka, although I know Russians can put it away. It is 8 inches tall including the hook, which was made by cutting off the top but leaving a 3/4" strip at the top and bending it over. The shell is 2" at the mouth and untapered, so it must have been about a 2" shell. Several Cyrillic (Russian) letters on the base. $50 + shipping.

Serbian Medals:  Serbia was one of the great European kingdoms during the 19th and 20th Centuries. It was established in the 7th Century by emigrants from the Carpathian Mountains and was conquered and ruled by Turkey from 1459-1829. It gained its independence, and in 1882, MilanI took the title of King. In the First Balkan War, 1912-1913, Serbia and other Balkan countries succeeded in wresting control of Southeast Europe from the Ottoman Turks. Albania became an independent muslim nation, and Kosovo was granted to Serbia which had claimed it since the Middle Ages. The  upper medal is Serbian from that war. Obverse is dated 1912 and tells what it is in Serbian. The reverse depicts the Serbian royal eagle patterned after the Russian Romanovs and lists all the significant battles in Kosovo in that year. It is in excellent condition and retains some of the original gilt, but is missing the ribbon. $78 + shipping. 

Soviet Aircraft Carrier Badge for Carrier Minsk - This badge was awarded for crossing the equator. Nice screwback badge with hot-baked enamel shows the globe and warship. Soviet Naval Flag and MIG fighter above. "MINSK" in cyrillic below with fouled anchor. "ZA PEREHODA YEKVATORA" ( For Crossing Equator) below ship. $16 + shipping.

Soviet Armored Officer's Qualification Breast Badges (4) - During the glory days of the Soviet Union's Red Army, officers were awarded badges to be worn on the breast of their uniform blouses  - graded in accordance with their demonstrated proficiency. 3rd Class was awarded first, then  2nd, and so on until the Master (M) was achieved. These 4 don't seem to have been worn very much by their recipient. They show little wear at all. Each shows the Class and Red Star on a shield  in hot-baked enamel superimposed over a missile with paired lightning bolts and a tank below the wings. $32 for the set + shipping.

Yugoslavia under Josip Broz Tito (circa 1965): Airforce Cap Badge, Military Silver Star, Military Gold Star. - These are quality pieces and not reproductions. Very uncommon to find. Gold Star has wider bevel around star and points extend out beyond edge of the badge. Red stars are all beautiful, heavy hot-baked enamel like that seen at top point of the Gold Star. Prices include s+i in USA. Cap Badge-$24, Stars $11 each. All 3 for $44 + shipping.

Soviet Army General Staff Map - 1940!! - Immensely important and interesting item! This is a military staff map from the General Staff of the Soviet Red Army covering the area from 23 degrees East and from 52 degrees South - roughly in the area south of Warsaw and east of Radom Poland toward Lublin. In 1940, WWII had just erupted with Germany and the Soviets dividing up Poland. This map is of the "Lomazy" District and so states at the top. 16 inches by 22 inches. No tears or holes. Lighter than the picture suggests due to shadow from picture taken in bright sunlight. All quite readable and no serious stains. We just brought this item in from Byellorussia. $74 + shipping.

World War I German Kriegsmarine(Navy) Shirt - Excellent condition! Can't have been worn and washed more than once or twice. Chest about 36.  Metal buttons on cuffs. Very heavy cotton material, almost like canvas. Completely undamaged. Cotton ribbon at neck. Hand-embroidered at bottom front with sailor's name(Kessler) and his unit. Back view left and front view right. $350 + shipping.

Soviet Badge - 100th Anniversary Lenin's Birth: Issued in 1970 during the Viet Nam Era to commemorate Lenin's birth in 1870 and so states on reverse. Much brighter than scan suggests. Both ribbon and badge in excellent condition with no damage. $10 + shipping.

Soviet Stalin-Era Badge - "Victory Over Germany" - Awarded to those who fought on Russia's western front against Germany, these are not rare, but becoming difficult to obtain in decent condition. Pictures Josef Stalin in his Marshall's uniform and states what it was awarded for as above. $11 + shipping.

Soviet Camo Suit w. Mask (c.1970) Rare Type - Genuine with matching camoflage mask. Large size modeled by our Russian partner. Slightly lighter in color than picture suggests. Metal buttons. No damage. $110 + shipping.

Soviet Naval Officer's Map Case & Equipment - Supple leather with removable shoulder strap. Clear vinyl interior compartments protect maps and documents from inclement weather. Also included are compass and map measuring device shown full size above. The latter measures distance on a map in centimeters(shown) and inches on the reverse. Also included are an oilskin poncho for protecting one's uniform while on deck and 2 plastic naval rulers, protractors, etc. which identify themselves as belonging to a Soviet Naval officer. All the above fit nicely into specially designed compartments in the map case. $50 + shipping.