Imperial German Match Book cover

[emerika]

Is this item real? who would it have been given to? scratched into the back - john berger 1917?

[JPhilip]

Hello,
It is an original WWI german protective case (made of brass) for a box of matches. Matches are original too.
The front displays a reduction of the center part of a prussian belt buckle with motto "Gott mit Uns". They were for sale in barracks, like lighters, matches etc....
Thanks

[oradour]

emerika, as JPhilip as already stated a nice original patriotic match cover, sold to soldiers in barrack and mobile (behind the front lines) canteens, I have one exactly the same, but not in as good a condition as yours !...the "Gott Mit Uns" motif was also used on a variety of brass objects available to the frontline sodier, lighters, cigar holders, notebook covers to name but a few, nice to have period box of matches to go with the cover. Completly off topic, theres a nice story re/Gott Mit Uns from the christmas truce 1914, german troops during the truce held a placard up towards the British lines reading "Gott Mit Uns" in large letters, the British Tommy replied with humour, placing there placard back facing the German lines reading "We Got Mittens too!".........

[emerika]

That's a funny little story! Thank you fot the replies, I was given the book in a collection. I like your little stand it is on. I do not have my stuff on display I keep it all in a box. I'm afraid to expose stuff to the sunshine!! I also need a display case ....thanx again!