Hurry up! Only 1 item is in stock!
Couldn't load pickup availability
Original WWII German Sterbebild (death card) for Oberschütze Karl Meyer, a Wehrmacht soldier and homeowner from Reiterdorf, Haidershofen parish. Meyer succumbed to severe wounds on 30 May 1945 while held in a prisoner-of-war camp near Thorn (West Prussia), aged 38.
The card features a civilian portrait bordered in black, accompanied by a religious verse mourning separation from loved ones. Such cards were issued by families after confirmation of death in captivity, a fate shared by many German soldiers during the chaotic final months of WWII. Printed by E. Biegel, Steyr.
Following Germany’s surrender in May 1945, vast numbers of wounded and captured soldiers were detained in Allied and Soviet camps. Many, like Karl Meyer, perished soon after due to injuries and harsh postwar conditions. This death card stands as a sobering reminder of the suffering that continued even after the fighting ceased.
Fair to good condition. Noticeable creasing and light staining consistent with age, but text and image remain legible and well preserved.
ALL ITEMS ARE GUARANTEED ORIGINAL PERIOD PIECES.
Did a lot of comparing before buying and ended up here. Item turned up exactly as pictured, which honestly is all I ask for these days. Packaging was solid too. Would buy again.
You can tell this is someone who actually handles and studies the pieces. I respect that.
Not my first militaria purchase, but probably the first time I didn’t feel like I had to “decode” the listing. Straightforward, clear photos, realistic condition notes. That alone earns trust.
What I liked most was the way the history was presented. Factual and clearly written for collectors instead of glorifying anything. That matters to me.
Bought one piece initially just to test the waters. Ended up placing another order a week later. That should say enough.
Everything arrived on time and matched the listing. No drama, no excuses, no surprises. That’s increasingly uncommon with online militaria.
First time ordering from overseas and I was a bit hesitant. Communication was great, shipping was fast and the item arrived in the condition shown. Very good!
I collect mainly German pieces and I was pleasantly surprised by how accurate the description was. Nothing overstated, nothing hidden. Kind of rare now. Very happy with the purchase.
I don’t usually leave reviews, but this one felt deserved. Honest listing, fair price, no nonsense. The piece now sits proudly in my collection. Thanks Mr. Taylor
An introduction to the methods used to distinguish genuine period items from post-war reproductions and modern copies.
Original militaria is defined by materials, construction techniques, markings, and age-consistent wear. Understanding these indicators is essential for assessing authenticity and historical integrity.
Learn MoreGuidance on preserving original militaria while respecting its historical condition and age.
Improper cleaning, storage, or display can permanently damage historical artefacts. Responsible preservation prioritises stability, minimal intervention, and respect for original materials.
Learn More
