NSRKB German Veterans Association Flag – 46″ x 48″

Product Description: An NSRKB German Veterans Association Flag – 46″ x 48″, presenting as a historically evocative textile with clear evidence of period use and later adaptation. The flag measures approximately 46 by 48 inches and displays age-related discoloration and scattered moth damage throughout, consistent with long-term storage and survival.

Notably, the central swastika roundel has been added to an Iron Cross–style flag, reflecting a transitional or commemorative alteration associated with veterans’ organizations of the period. Along the edge, the flag is marked ges. gesch., indicating registered design protection. Despite the visible wear, the flag remains structurally intact and visually compelling, retaining strong display appeal for the advanced collector of Third Reich–era militaria and organizational memorabilia.

Overall, this NSRKB German Veterans Association Flag – 46″ x 48″ rates as very good condition, valued for its authenticity, markings, and historical character.

Historical Description: The flags of the Imperial German Empire during the First World War served as potent visual expressions of national identity, military hierarchy, and the political structure of the Kaiserreich. Central among them was the Reichskriegsflagge, the official war flag used by both the Imperial Navy and, in modified forms, by elements of the army. Its design blended Prussian heraldry with imperial symbolism: the black-white-red national tricolor, the Iron Cross denoting military valor, and the crowned Imperial Eagle representing the authority of the Kaiser. These elements were not merely decorative but intentionally crafted to communicate unity in a rapidly modernizing empire led by Prussia. The navy in particular adopted several standardized sizes of the war flag, flown at sea on battleships, cruisers, torpedo boats, and auxiliary vessels. Alongside this banner, the broader visual system included regimental colors, command flags, and rank pennants, each carrying distinct heraldry and steeped in traditions reaching back to the 18th century.

On land, Imperial German regimental flags—lavishly embroidered with eagles, battle honors, and monograms—held ceremonial and symbolic importance rather than strictly tactical use during WWI, as the realities of trench warfare rendered battlefield flag-bearing largely obsolete. Nevertheless, these colors remained revered emblems of unit pride and were protected with great care. Meanwhile, national flags such as the civil tricolor and merchant ensigns continued to represent the empire in diplomatic, commercial, and overseas settings, even as the global conflict strained Germany’s international presence. By war’s end in 1918, the collapse of the monarchy brought the discontinuation of Imperial-era flags, replacing them with new republican symbols under the Weimar government. Today, surviving examples—especially naval Reichskriegsflaggen and regimental colors—are studied as material witnesses to the political culture, military traditions, and visual identity of the German Empire at the height of its global ambitions.

We are the leading team of military antique specialists. We have specialized in military antiques for over 25 years.

Epic Artifacts offers free evaluations and the highest prices available for your collectibles.

We purchase single items, entire collections, or family estates.

Click the link here to learn more: Free Evaluation or Inquiries 

or feel free to email us directly: info@epicartifacts.com