Summer 2025 Auction Preview (#1311773)

This fine quality specimen hails from Austria, after the Anschluss.  Founded in 1934, the SS was actually a covert and for a time, illegal force acting in Austria to help bring about unification with Germany.  After the Anschluss in 1938, it was legalized and immediately began establishing concentration camps there.  The 87th SS Standarte, operating out of Innsbrook, was one of the formations in Austria, and this tunic is from that organization.  Recognized by the flower on the right collar, this NCO would have been a member of the 2nd Company of the unit.  Tailored out of fine tricot wool and completed under RZM regulations by the tailor Josef Schirmer, a company whose storefront photo is pictured here.  Tunic is in outstanding condition, beautifully tailored with a fine quality interior.  Insignia are all fine quality bullion.  A tunic that is internally consistent, shows no signs of tamper, and is an outstanding jumping-off point for historical study.