REINHARD HEYDRICH SILVER ENGRAVED FORMAL SERVING PLATTER
REINHARD HEYDRICH (1904-1942). 'The Hangman', Nazi head of the dreaded SS and architect of the 'Final Solution', his assassination in Prague caused severe reprisal actions, including the destruction of Lidice and the murder of many of its inhabitants. A great rarity, a large silver-plated serving platter from the formal tableware set of Nazi strongman, Reinhard Heydrich. The platter measures 21 inches wide, 14 inches tall, and about 1.25 inches deep, with a simple roll-shaped edge. Heydrich's distinctive monogram is period-engraved along one edge, about 2 x 1.25 in., depicting a national eagle with swastika which is flanked by his stylized initials 'R H' The bottom of the platter bears the hallmark of noted Saxon silversmiths 'Wellner', along with a '25' purity stamp. The tray has not been cleaned and remains heavily tarnished as found, but for the hallmark which was lightly cleaned to better reveal the maker. No visible damage but for a few surface scratches in the well from use. Heydrich's tableware is excessively rare, with authentic example including only a few dinner appearing only very rarely over the past decade.