Description:

IMPERIAL GERMAN TRENCH ARMOR BREASTPLATE SET
Unusual trench armor set known as a Sappenpanzer breastplate, constructed of hand forged steel, this heavy steel chest armor is 13.25 in. x 16 in. overall, with an additional belly plate, 5 in. x 13 in. These pieces exhibt fine craftsmanship, capturing the essence of the era with its intricate design and workmanship. Both pieces showing areas of rust and oxidation, the upper chest breastplate retains most of it's period painted paint scheme in a brushed on field green color, also featuring a designation, stenciled in red paint to the inside: 'HILL 344 VERDUN', most likely added by the vet who ultimately picked up this unusual souvenir of war. Breast plate is one piece with the two rear shoulder panels held in place with three heavy rivets to each side, with the neck area fashioned into a raised apron for additional neck protection. No maker marks can be found on the main body of the breastplate, nor the integrated metal shoulder straps, though the one included belly plate is marked with a logo or hallmark similar to a pretzel, with a larger letter 'K' and the number '52' below. Also present are two fittings riveted to the rear of the breast plate for suspension of the additional armor pieces to cover the belly area. Originally, three additional belly plates would have hung from the piece as it was designed and issued, one of which is part of this lot. These were hung from canvas straps from the breast plate, like elements of a lobster shell, with padding to stop the metal from clanking together and exposing the wearer's position. Although bulky and heavy, these would usually have been worn outside or above the trench by a sniper or machine gunner. Due to the stalemate situation of the trenches and an increased danger to soldiers of the front line, a desperate German army resorted to the ancient solution of body armor to provide greater protection from incoming fire and shrapnel. Although it is thought that the Germans possibly issued as many a one half million of these during the war, they are very rarely encountered..

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November 14, 2025 10:00 AM EST
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $999,999 $10,000
$1,000,000 $1,999,999 $50,000
$2,000,000 + $100,000