Reichskriegsflagge

The dimensions of this battle flag500 x 300 cmmake it an exceptionally rare piece. It was intended to fly either from an official building in the Reich capital or from the bow of a major Kriegsmarine surface vessel. Although made of wool bunting, its size meant it could not be printed like standard battle flag (which were produced in lengths up to 300 cm); instead, it was constructed entirely using appliqué stitchinga task requiring immense effort and extreme precision. Its size and method of manufacture make it a truly exceptional item. It is the first of its kind ever recordedpossibly the only surviving exampleand is, in any case, a genuine museum-quality piece. Aside from minor snags or insignificant moth holes, the overall condition is very good.

| historical background |

The Kriegsmarine was the German naval service of the Third Reich, officially established in 1935 during Germany’s rearmament. It succeeded the Reichsmarine and developed into a modern naval force comprising surface vessels, submarines, and a wide range of specialized units in the years preceding World War II. Under the command of the Oberkommando der Marine (OKM), it took part in naval operations from 1939 onward, with duties ranging from submarine warfare to escort operations, surface combat, and coastal defence.

Throughout World War II, the Kriegsmarine underwent continuous changes in its organization and equipment. Submarine warfare became particularly important with the expansion of the U-Bootwaffe, while surface units, coastal artillery, naval port formations, and various specialist branches also played roles in German military operations. This diversity is reflected in the uniforms, insignia, headgear, equipment, and regulation effects produced throughout the 1935–1945 period.