The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Signatories · Luftwaffe
Adolf Galland (1912–1996): Signature, Documents and Historical Profile
| Born | 19 March 1912, Westerholt |
|---|---|
| Died | 9 February 1996, Oberwinter |
| Key roles | Legion Condor (1937–38); fighter commander in the Battle of Britain; commander of the fighter arm (November 1941 – January 1945); jet fighter unit (1945) |
| Documents bearing his name | Wartime documents and award papers; many post-war signed photographs, prints and books |
| In the collection | No pieces currently available |
Adolf Galland flew in Spain and in the Battle of Britain and led the Luftwaffe’s fighter arm from 1941 until he was dismissed in 1945. He signed a vast number of photographs, prints and books after the war, which are among the most common Luftwaffe autographs.
Who Was Adolf Galland?
Galland was born in Westerholt in 1912. He flew with the Condor Legion in Spain in 1937–38 and led a fighter unit in the Battle of Britain. In November 1941 he became commander of the Luftwaffe fighter arm. Blamed by Hitler and Göring for the failure of the air defences, he was relieved in January 1945 and then commanded an elite jet fighter unit. After the war he advised the Argentine air force.
What Documents Bear Galland’s Signature?
Wartime documents and award papers exist; post-war signed photographs, art prints and books are very common. See original signature or facsimile.
What Should Collectors Watch For?
- Most signatures are post-war, often on art prints.
- Wartime documents need provenance.
- Check rank and position against the date.
Later Life
Galland died in Oberwinter on 9 February 1996.
Collector’s Note
Signed aviation prints are a market of their own. A Galland signature on a print is genuine more often than not, but it is a post-war collectable, not a wartime document.
Related Entries and Pieces
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Frequently Asked Questions
When did Galland command the fighter arm?
From November 1941 until January 1945.
Are Galland signatures common?
Post-war signatures are very common.
When did Galland die?
On 9 February 1996.
Historical Responsibility Notice: this entry documents historical figures and artefacts of the National Socialist period for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology, and it is written in memory of the victims of the regime.
References & Further Reading
- Encyclopaedia Britannica, Adolf Galland.