May 2014 Auction Ends Thursday, May 29th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/29/2014
Very rare Hitler signed and dated photo, dated 24 August 1940. Photo is matted and framed in a sturdy black cassette presumably that once belonged to Nazi aviator Flugkapitan Hanna Reitsch, the only woman awarded the Iron Cross First Class and the Luftwaffe Pilot/Observer Badge in Gold with Diamonds during World War II. Her name is engraved to plaque affixed to cover of case. Photo depicts Hitler posing sternly, seated on a chair in a non-military suit. With date inscribed along bottom in German along with his ''Adolf Hitler'' signature in black ink. Framed with a metal plaque of the Nazi party emblem, the eagle atop the swastika symbol, opposite photo against red plush fabric matting. With provenance from Charles Hamilton, handwriting and manuscript expert. Letter reads in full, ''I certify that I have examined the frontal portrait of Hitler in civilian clothes, taken by Heinrich Hoffmann in 1938. This particular photograph is encased in a black leather, folding cassette containing a metal plaque on the exterior, bearing the engraved name of Flugkapitan Hanna Reitsch of the German Luftwaffe. Based upon my detailed analysis, I certify that both the date (24 Aug. 1940) as well as the signature written above the date are the authentic writing of Adolf Hitler. Further, this photograph was borrowed from a Canadian Collector and used as the basis for the writing exemplar of Adolf Hitler illustrated on page 191 of my book 'Collecting Autographs and Manuscripts', published by the University of Oklahoma Press in 1961. Lastly, I am the author of the standard work on Hitler's handwriting entitled 'Leaders and Personalities of the Third Reich'''. Photo measures 6.5'' x 7.5''; black case measures 7.25'' x 8.25'' with some minor wear to case, else near fine.
Scarce Hitler Signed Photo -- Photo Taken by Heinrich Hoffmann Is Encapsulated in a Case Belonging to German Aviator Nazi Flugkapitan Hanna Reitsch
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