The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Signatories · Luftwaffe
Erich Hartmann (1922–1993): Signature, Documents and Historical Profile
| Born | 19 April 1922 |
|---|---|
| Died | 10 September 1993 |
| Key roles | 352 aerial victories; Diamonds to the Knight’s Cross (August 1944); Soviet captivity until 1955; post-war West German air force |
| Documents bearing his name | Wartime award papers; many post-war signed photographs and prints |
| In the collection | No pieces currently available |
Erich Hartmann is credited with 352 aerial victories, the highest total of any fighter pilot. He spent ten years in Soviet captivity and then helped build the West German air force. Most of his signatures on the market are post-war.
Who Was Erich Hartmann?
Hartmann was born in 1922. Flying on the Eastern Front, he received the Diamonds to the Knight’s Cross from Hitler in late August 1944 and scored his last victory on 8 May 1945. He spent about ten years in Soviet prisoner-of-war camps, until 1955, and later served in the West German air force.
What Documents Bear Hartmann’s Signature?
Wartime award papers are rare; post-war signed photographs and prints are common. See original signature or facsimile.
What Should Collectors Watch For?
- Most signatures are post-war.
- Wartime documents need strong provenance.
- Victory totals are official claims; describe them as such.
Later Life
Hartmann died on 10 September 1993.
Collector’s Note
“352 victories” is a figure every collector knows. In a description I present it as the official claim it is.
Related Entries and Pieces
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many victories did Hartmann claim?
352.
When was Hartmann released from Soviet captivity?
In 1955.
When did Hartmann die?
On 10 September 1993.
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
- Bell, K. (2020) Erich Hartmann: Best in the East, HistoryNet.