The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 2237:
Description
This WWII-era German podium banner is a striking example of period political textile work, featuring a central black swastika on a white circular field, set against a vibrant red cotton ground with a white rectangular border. The construction shows characteristic details such as the multi-piece appliquéd design and a decorative white twisted fringe along the bottom, weighted edge. Both corners retain their metal hanging rings, though the attachment point shows significant wear. The reverse side reveals the stitch patterns consistent with period manufacturing techniques. Overall, the banner shows moderate age-related wear, including minor staining on the white fields, some fraying at the edges, and wrinkling from storage, though the fabric remains generally strong and the colors are well-preserved. This piece was a souvenir brought back by John Klein during his service with the 709th MP Battalion and the 52nd MP CID in Frankfurt and Hanau, Germany, between 1952 and 1958. Klein’s transfer to the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) in Hanau in 1953 placed him in a more specialized role. The CID dealt with more complex felony-level crimes involving military personnel or property, and leftover denazification issues. Being in the CID likely gave him unique access to various regions and facilities, which may explain how he curated this specific collection of relics. H 36", W 29"
Disclaimer: Due to the high quality of WWII German fakes, Donley Auctions has described this item to the best of their ability and assumes NO liability or responsibility if information provided is incorrect. Authenticity is unknown. Buyer assumes all responsibility to determine whether or not an item is authentic. Buyer may request additional photos, ask detailed questions and make inquiries into the specifics of this item. All content and information is provided “AS IS” and without warranty, implied or otherwise. Absolutely NO refunds are given for this item or any military relics, regardless of age or condition.
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