Lot 436
WW II Relics: Ludendorff Bridge, Bullet Frame, Mortar Shell Ash Trays, French Parachute Sample, Bullion Rank Badge. Collection of ephemera and "trench art" : 1) The Battle of Remagen during the Allied invasion of Germany resulted in the surprise capture of the Ludendorff Bridge over the Rhine and likely shortened World War II in Europe. This proved one of the last bridges still standing even after a significant detonation by the Germans to destroy it. The Allies were able to rapidly transport five divisions across the Rhine into Germany's industrial heartland. Unfortunately the bridge collapsed while over 30 American engineers were on it and perished. In 1969 a former captain stationed in Gelnhausen visited the bridge site and retrieved two cobblestones from the bridgehead and made them in to bookends for his father to commemorate his service during WWII. An affidavit/LOA fully explains the provenance. Certainly hand-crafted but the sentiment behind the pieces absolutely sincere and make fine relics for collectors of WWII ephemera. 2) From an officer stationed at The Panama Canal a hand crafted brass frame on wood base flanked by .50 BMG cartridges (empty), this kind of work usually referred to as "trench art". Base engraved "Panama Canal" 3) Remnant of French parachute that has printed in fountain pen ink "Parachute from French plane shot down by US Forces at Port Lyautey, French Morocco, West Africa, Nov. 8, 1942" and includes bullion rank badge of the Turret Captain who kept it. 4.) Two mortar shell ashtrays, the largest a shell (24 pounder?) dated 1945 on base signed (after several attempts) by soldier who made it 5.82" in diameter, the other 20mm MK-2 Shell ashtray with butt rests made of bent Panamanian coins no doubt made while stationed at The Panama Canal. Estimate Value $275 - UP
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| Realized $128 |
