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Exceptional First World War memorial glass paperweight commemorating Kanonier Fritz Trabani of Norden, East Frisia. This unique remembrance piece honours a fallen artilleryman of the Imperial German Army, killed in action during the early stages of World War I.
The interior display features a printed Iron Cross (Eisernes Kreuz 1914) emblem with accompanying text:
“Das Eiserne Kreuz – Norden, 29. Jan. Der Kanonier Fritz Trabani …”
Set beneath thick, beveled glass, the paperweight preserves the soldier’s name, his home town (Norden), and the context of his death in January 1915, making it both a personal and historically valuable remembrance artefact.
Archival records confirm that Kanonier Fritz Trabani appears in the official German Army Verlustlisten (casualty lists) of 1914–1919, which recorded the fates of fallen and missing soldiers during WWI. Trabani, holding the artillery rank of Kanonier (gunner), was listed as killed in action (gefallen). The memorial inscription on this paperweight corresponds exactly with those entries, noting his death on 24 January 1915 in Norden, likely due to wounds or illness sustained in the Western Front campaign.
Excellent preservation for its age. Glass remains clear with light edge wear and internal aging visible on the printed layer. Felt backing intact. No cracks or major chips.
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.
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