The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Signatories · Wehrmacht
Gerd von Rundstedt (1875–1953): Signature, Documents and Historical Profile
| Born | 12 December 1875, Aschersleben |
|---|---|
| Died | 24 February 1953, Hanover |
| Key commands | Army groups in Poland (1939), France (1940) and the Soviet Union (1941); Commander-in-Chief West (1942–44 and 1944–45) |
| Documents bearing his name | Army group and theatre command documents, award papers |
| In the collection | No pieces currently available |
Gerd von Rundstedt was the senior field marshal of the German army, recalled and dismissed by Hitler several times. His signature appears on documents of the army groups he commanded and of the western theatre.
Who Was Gerd von Rundstedt?
Rundstedt was born in Aschersleben in 1875. He returned to active service to command an army group in Poland in 1939 and in France in 1940, and led the southern wing of the invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941 until Hitler dismissed him. He returned as Commander-in-Chief West in July 1942, was replaced in July 1944, returned in September 1944 to direct the Ardennes offensive and was relieved for the last time in March 1945.
What Documents Bear Rundstedt’s Signature?
His signature appears on army group and theatre command documents and award papers. His repeated dismissals and reinstatements make dating especially important. See original signature or facsimile.
What Should Collectors Watch For?
- Check his command against the date: he was in and out of office several times.
- Distinguish signatures from typed copies of orders.
- Signed photographs need comparison with authenticated exemplars.
Later Life
He was captured by US troops in May 1945 and later released because of ill health. He died in Hanover in 1953.
Collector’s Note
Rundstedt’s career has more gaps than most. A document signed as Commander-in-Chief West must fall into one of his periods in office, and I check that first.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was Rundstedt Commander-in-Chief West?
From July 1942 to July 1944 and again from September 1944 to March 1945.
Did Rundstedt command the Ardennes offensive?
He directed it as Commander-in-Chief West.
When did Rundstedt die?
On 24 February 1953 in Hanover.
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, Gerd von Rundstedt.