Condition: Excellent
Measurements: 24″ x 4″
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Product Description: This impressive enameled Unbefugten Zutritt Verboten sign translates to “Unauthorized Access Prohibited.” This sign was likely used on a civil or military property before or during WWII. It’s a large sign, measuring 24″ x 4,” made of a fairly weighty steel, The lettering is very nicely done in crisp black enamel, which is attractively raised over the white enamel background. The lettering style is that officially established for signs by the German standards body “Deutsches Institut für Normung” (DIN) in 1931. This sign was used, and shows some damage to the edges of the obverse from where it was removed long ago. There are typical scratches and chips, and the exposed bare metal shows an old, uncleaned patina. The reverse of this sign also has a heavy patina, with original black enamel remaining in some areas. This rare Unbefugten Zutritt Verboten sign makes a great accent piece for a display.
Historical Description: There are many types of signage associated with WWII and prewar Germany. The Nazi authorities made wide use of signs to disseminate information about the various official organizations, Party functions and events. The various official buildings in German cities and towns and in the occupied areas also had signs to indicate their function. And of course there were countless types of unofficial signs in use as well, including commercial advertising. Some of these signs were mass produced, factory made of enameled steel, pressed metal or printed card or even paper. Other signs were hand-painted and unique. During the Third Reich, many German streets in cities and towns were renamed to honor Nazi Party leaders, with names such as Hermann-Göring-Strasse or (most famously) Adolf-Hitler-Strasse. Other streets were renamed after martyrs such as Horst Wessel, or after Nazi organizations- for example “Strasse der SA.” Signs were an iconic part of Nazi Germany and some Allied soldiers, who had the means to do so, brought or sent home these large decorative items. Most were destroyed, and few survive today.
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