MILITARIA 

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                                      Knights Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords

                                                               Not For Sale

Rare German WWI 4 Medal Bar - This rare bar contains 4 medals from the period surrounding WWI and tells a lot about its original owner. The 2 medals at the left are the Prussian Iron Cross, Second Class and the Hindenburg Cross of honor with swords awarded to combatants in WWI.   The iron cross is 3-piece and magnetic core. The medal at far right is the Rare Friedrich August Cross, awarded by the Principality of Oldenburg only until 1916 and for about the same reasons as the Prussian Iron Cross. The 3rd medal is rarer, the Schlesian Eagle second class.   Silesia (Schlesia) is a large area belonging originally to Germany, but taken from Germany and forced into the new Poland and Czechoslovakia by the victorious allies by the Treaty of Versailles at the end of WWI. This was one of several acts forcing Germany into chaos in the 1920s. A motley cabal of Jews and other communists forced Kaiser Wilhelm of Prussia to sue for peace and abdicate his throne, destroying the German economy and social structure. There arose in several areas of Germany various freikorps (Militias) fighting the terrorists to maintain stability. Silesia was one of the largest of these. Thus this soldier fought for Germany during the war and in the Silesian Militia after the armistice. Many of these freikorps later joined the Nazi Sturmabteilungen (storm Troopers) in the 1920s. These medals are all in excellent condition but the ribbons show some grime from   use. $350 + 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. $70 + shipping.

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.

WWII German SS Stickpin - Original and quite rare. To be worn in a suit buttonhole by SS members.   The SS or Schutsstaffel (Protection Force) were in 2 branches: Allgemeine(General SS) and Waffen SS (Armed SS).   They were an elite organization under Heinrich Himmler (Reichsfuehrer SS) and included both the State Police(Gestaatspolizei or Gestapo) and some of the best military units in Nazi Germany. This stickpin is made of silver and black enamel and is completely undamaged. $79 + shipping.

WWII German SS Officer's Arm Band - Completely Original! Measures 5 1/2 inches by 8 inches. Has a multi piece sewn swastika.   Wool and cotton construction. Excellent condition with no tears or moth holes! Very minor wear.   At the right is a foto of Heinrich Himmler and 3 SS officers in a Mercedes wearing the armbands with 2 black stripes which signify the SS. $210 + shipping.

WWII German Bronze Soldier and Helmet Bust (1933-1935) - This is an original, 100% authentic Third Reich period bronze German soldier bust with marble base which was brought to this country from Germany about 8 years ago.   The bust stands 9 1/2 inches tall including its marble base. We date the bust between 1933-35 due to the fact the soldier is wearing a WWI style helmet, but the style is clearly Third Reich art. In 1935 the German Wehrmacht adopted the M35 type helmet seen below in a rare camoflage edition. Thus we date this piece between 1933-1935. There is no sculptor's name we can find, but the bottom bears an "11" mark, which can be seen by removing the base. There are a few very minor nicks which do not detract from the overall appearance. The bust is fairly heavy and shipping will probably be about $25 in USA. $350 + 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.

German WWI Kriegsmarine Moltke Medal(Rare!) - This medal was awarded to a German sailor serving aboard the German battle cruiser MOLTKE, named after the 19th century German Field Marshall Count Helmuth von Moltke, who was Chief of the Prussian General Staff in the Franco-Prussian War 1870-1871.  He urged Bismarck to attack France. The medal  is a high quality 33mm well struck bronze and heavy. The Moltke was the first and only German warship to visit United States and was active in WWI. She was interred at Scapa Flow and scuttled by her crew 21 June 1919. Raised1927 and scrapped at Rosyth 1929. The medal is in perfect, like-new condition, and the original ribbon is pristine. The obverse bears a bust of von Moltke and his quote "Erst Waegen - Dann Wagen." Designer's name, C. Kuehl beneath the bust. Reverse shows the ship at sail on the sea with the inscription "S.M.S. Moltke" (His Majesty's Ship Moltke) and the Prussian royal seal beneath. $80 + 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.

Mexican Cavalry Officer's Sword (circa 1830s) - This sword was obtained from an old arms collection in Santa Fe New Mexico.   It had been discovered in Mexico about 30-40 miles South of the Alamo in San Antonio Texas in the early 1950s.   The age and type are correct, and it may very well have seen use in Santa Anna's army at the Alamo in 1836. 27-inch unmarked blade and 31 inches overall. As can be seen in the pics the blade has a couple minor nicks, and the wood handle has a split. The orange coloration of the blade is much darker and is not rust, but a dark orange patina. The scabbard, which would have been leather, is long gone. $245 + 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.

Imperial German WWI Medal Bar (Bavarian) - To see this bar, enlarge pics above of helmet and flag. This 3-medal 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.

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. 

Large Japanese Edo Era Samurai Jingasa or Helmet - Condition excellent for its age (circa 1830). Obviously the family stored it in a safe place and no children played "Toyama No Kinsan" with it.   There is some edge wear which is common to Jingasas, but this one is much nicer than usually seen. The padding on the inside is also original and not a modern replacement.   This is an extra large jingasa - some 17 3/4 inches in diameter. These are sometimes referred to as "Travelling Jingasa," because samurai often wore them when travelling along the roads of ancient Japan. Enamel almost perfect with very few age cracks. Outer black finish brighter than it appears in the bright sunlight in which fotos were taken. Whitish discoloration seen at front left on top is not seen in the helmet. An apparent artifact of sunlight.  Notice the Rising Sun motif to the inner surface of the helmet. $280 + shipping.

WWII Japanese Army/Navy Officer's Full Dress Hat - This beautiful piece completely undamaged silk construction.   Excellent condition. No fading, wear, moth holes, etc. Lieutenant's Full Dress Hat. $200 + 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 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.

WWII Japanese Army/Navy Wound Badge - This is the "sen-sho" badge for wounds sustained in battle.   It is in the form of a cross composed of 4 ancient samurai shields enameled in red with 4 pitted spear heads in the angles.   The center is a medallion picturing the folk-hero Kusonoke Masashige, who died in battle in 1336 A.D. The reverse is plain with the characters "military wound badge" and "sen-sho" in the center and with a double pin. The sen-sho badge is gilded silver. This badge is in excellent condition except for a few very tiny cracks to the enamel on the lower shield which can be seen in the pic. The shields are bright red, and the darkening at the distal ends is artifact produced by the light striking the arched shields. The case is wood in good condition with maker's mark on the side. Slight split in the base. $155 + 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. 

German WWI Feld Eherenkreuz Badge from Hamburg - In WWI, several of the German principalities and Hanseatic City-States issued their own badges. Such was the case with  Hamburg which issued this First Class Honor Badge for bravery in Combat. Excellent condition. Just minor early corrosion to a couple of the rays. Silver center oval with a combat soldier on a white enamel cross with crossed swords. All on a patina silvered starburst. Reverse: "Deutsches Feld-Eherenzeichen Hamburg 11."  Maker marked "Ges-Gesch." $105 + shipping.

                     Kuban 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.  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.

Kuban Shield - $208 + shipping.

WWII German Iron Cross First Class FIELD SERVICE! - Absolutely original and undamaged. Much more rare than the metal Iron Cross.   Outlined in silver bullion metallic thread. Forman's Guide to   Third Reich Awards lists this piece at $400-$600. The masking tape on reverse was apparently put on reverse as a label by some fool who didn't know better. We are reluctant to try removing what is left for fear of damaging the original paper backing.  $350 + shipping.

WWII German Iron Cross 2nd Klasse - Excellent condition and highly sought  after by collectors! Magnetic core and completely original including the ribbon. No markings. Ribbon quite clean. The Iron Cross was awarded sequentially  beginning with the second class cross. The recipient was required to win each in turn one after the other. First the second class, then the first class, then the Knight's Cross, etc. making the higher grades quite rare indeed. This one needs a slight polishing on the silver edging which appears a little tarnished. $180 + 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. 

Italian Blackshirt Medal with Mussolini and Original ribbon! - Anyone vaguely familiar with Hitler and the Third Reich cannot but be impressed with the similarities between  Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy. Hitler greatly admired Mussolini's organization of his State and patterned much of his Germany after it based upon his reading while locked up in Landsberg prison. His development of the "Brownshirts (Sturmabteilungen or storm troopers)" was directly patterned after Mussolini's Blackshirts. Both Mussolini and Hitler were faced with attacks on their speakers and workers by communists and socialists and responded by recruiting young toughs to protect their people. A similarity today is the rise of the "skinheads" throughout the White world. This medal was awarded to a blackshirt for activities during 1939-1941. We regret we do not know exactly for what. This was an awkward period for Mussolini, since Italy was officially neutral but was being dragged into war. There was much anti-German violence by the communist "redshirts" at the time, and the blackshirts were busy busting heads. This medal is in pristine condition. $200 + 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.

British King's South Africa Medal with bars for 1901 and 1902! - From the Boer War which  began October 1st 1899 and for which Winston Churchill became  famous as a journalist, writing the definitive account of the first 6 months. This medal was awarded to one, "4162 S. Holmes Worcester Regiment," and whose name and number are inscribed on the edge. $185 + shipping.

World War II Paulonia War Flag Sake Cup -  This is a rare sake wine cup we recently brought from Japan. Different patterned sake cups were often presented to military personnel. This cup which is 2" across features a paulonia leaf  (symbol of the Imperial family) and a 16 Joukyokujitsuki  rising sun flag (battle flag) with a shaded military star above. This flag is often referred to as the Naval Flag, but was used by all branches during the War. When the cup is turned over, it shows an unusual light blue glaze pattern. This cup was presented to a soldier named Onishi in the Army's 39th Unit. $48 + 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.

Order of the Star of Rumania with Swords in Gold (Type II) - This quite uncommon and strikingly beautiful military medal is in completely undamaged condition! The order was established in 1887 by King Carol 1 and bears his cipher on the obverse. $130 + 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. The lower medal is the Serbian Order of St. Sava dated 1883 on reverse under King Milan I. The ribbon shows some wear, and there are a couple very minor chips to the blue enamel which can all be see in the scan. Excellent condition overall and retaining  considerable original gilt. $175 + shipping.

Serbia's history is unsettling. The Serbs have struggled valiantly for independence for over 2000 years, but again, after World War II they were conquered and ruled by the communists under Tito until the collapse of the Soviet Union. This granted them a few more years until they were recaptured by the New World Order under The United States and its lackeys in the United Nations, much like Afghanistan and Iraq. For a beautiful piece of currency from this great kingdom, see our COINS page.

British Named Medal Queens South Africa (1901) - This medal was awarded to N. Solomon of the Alexandria Mounted Troops, who had  been in volved in The Boer War the previous year. Edge of the medal bears testimony to its owner and his position. We have a document which will go to the purchaser. Obverse mature head of Queen Victoria, and reverse shows Britannia extending a wreath to the troops with a warship to right. White on reverse of ribbon is  backing. $190 s+i.  

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.