The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Documents · Propaganda

Anschluss Referendum and Reichstag Ballots: History, Contents and Collector’s Guide

Anschluss referendum 10 April 1938, across the German Reich including Austria
Official result More than 99% “Yes” (99.73% per the Austrian Federal Chancellery; 99.75% per the USHMM)
Excluded Jews and opponents of the regime
Collecting interest Ballots, leaflets, postcards and commemorative cancellations
In the collection See current pieces in the collection

The ballot papers of the Nazi referendums and single-list Reichstag elections were instruments of propaganda rather than free choice. The ballot of 10 April 1938, with its large “Ja” circle and tiny “Nein”, is one of the most telling documents of the regime.

What Were the Nazi Referendum Ballots?

After German troops entered Austria on 12 March 1938 and a law on “reunification” was passed the next day, the regime held a plebiscite across the Reich on 10 April 1938. According to the Austrian Federal Chancellery, 99.73% voted in favour; Jews, under the Nuremberg Laws, and all opponents of the regime were excluded. The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum holds a commemorative ballot with a “Ja” circle and a postmark reading “Ein Volk, ein Reich, ein Führer, Wien, 10 April 1938”, and gives the result as 99.75%.

Who Issued It, and Who Signed It?

Ballots were printed by the authorities and are unsigned. Commemorative postcards and cancellations were produced in large numbers. See annexation medals and Arthur Seyss-Inquart.

What Should Collectors Watch For?

  • Real ballots and commemorative cards look similar; distinguish them.
  • Reprints exist.
  • Nazi symbols on such items are subject to display restrictions in some countries.

Collector’s Note

A ballot with a huge “Yes” and a small “No” says more about dictatorship than any textbook. I always present it that way.

Related Entries and Pieces

Pieces in the Collection

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Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Anschluss referendum held?

On 10 April 1938.

What was the official result?

More than 99% in favour; sources give 99.73% or 99.75%.

Who was excluded from voting?

Jews and opponents of the regime.

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