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Original World War I Soldbuch (pay and service book) issued to Musketier Karl Menzel of the II Ersatz-Bataillon, Infanterie-Regiment Nr. 47. The booklet records personal and military service details including enlistment, unit assignments, and official stamps dated 1915.
Printed by Gebr. Saupe, Straßburg i. Els, this issue served as both a soldier’s identification and payroll record — essential for every German serviceman. Entries include Menzel’s birthplace (Berlin), occupation, physical description, and unit transfers, offering a personal insight into a frontline infantryman of the Imperial German Army during service on the Eastern Front against the Russian Empire.
The 47th Infantry Regiment was part of the Prussian Army’s Eastern campaigns, participating in major operations during the 1915 offensives. Soldbücher like this were carried at all times by German soldiers, acting as both an ID and administrative record — making them an essential part of wartime bureaucracy and personal history.
Good, complete example showing moderate wear consistent with field use. All pages present and writing legible, with visible ink stamps and signatures. An authentic, historically rich artefact from the Great War.
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.
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Improper cleaning, storage, or display can permanently damage historical artefacts. Responsible preservation prioritises stability, minimal intervention, and respect for original materials.
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