Hermann Historica, a renowned auction house situated near Munich, is gearing up to welcome enthusiasts and collectors for its grand Anniversary Auction. Celebrating its 100th auction with a slogan "100th Auction — 100 sell-out triumphs," it promises an event filled with exclusive and hard-to-find items. The auction house's reputation for offering an array of extraordinary collector's pieces and high-quality artworks is well captured by this slogan.
This time, the auction is scheduled to unfold over two weeks, mirroring the structure of their previous live auction. Leading the showcase in the initial week are military history artifacts alongside the much-anticipated second installment of the Dave Delich collection. Following this, the auction will focus on a diverse range of items including art, antiques, firearms, and arms and armor from May 14 to 16.
Hermann Historica has arranged multiple ways for buyers to participate in the bidding process. Attendees have the option to bid in person within the specially arranged saleroom, over the phone, or through any of the available five online bidding platforms. This multi-faceted approach ensures that enthusiasts from around the world can join in and potentially secure a piece of history.
Military collectibles and orders until 1918
Over a span of three days, an exceptional array of orders and military history artifacts will be showcased, beginning on Tuesday, May 7. The auction will present an impressive collection of pre-1918 decorations and military antiques, including swords, uniforms, and porcelain, with nearly 550 lots awaiting bidders from 10 a.m. onward.
A highlight of the auction is the extraordinary Grand Cross set with Swords on the Ring and Diamonds of the Bulgarian Order of St. Alexander, identified as lot number 4006. This unique piece, housed in its original case, stands as the sole extant example of its kind globally. It features an eight-rayed breast star adorned with old-cut diamonds and a gilt reverse, marked by the manufacturer "C. F. ZIMMERMANN HOFJUWELIER PFORZHEIM." The medallion's white and translucent red enamel, coupled with the gold swords, enhances its allure, making it a coveted item with a starting price of 15,000 euros.
Another notable lot is the distinguished headgear once worn by Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, offered with bids starting at 4,500 euros. This khaki-colored visor cap, adorned with exclusive insignia for the monarch, represents a unique piece of Iranian history from the 1950s and 1960s.
Additionally, a personal letter from Ernest Hemingway, penned in 1954 and personally signed, is up for grabs. This letter, reflecting Hemingway's thoughts post his Nobel Prize win and his interactions with the media, accompanied by a 1965 edition of "The Atlantic" magazine, is expected to attract bids starting from 4,000 euros.
Finally, the auction features a significant historical weapon, the sword of Oberst Sigismund von der Heyde, complete with a letter of provenance dating back to 1824. This sword, carrying a legacy of valor, is available for acquisition with a starting bid of 4,000 euros, promising to be a standout addition to any collection.
Please note: all prices quoted are net prices and do not include the 29,5% premium (and VAT).