The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Signatories · SS & Police
Joachim Peiper (1915–1976): Signature, Documents and Historical Profile
| Born | 1915, Berlin |
|---|---|
| Died | 1976, France |
| Key roles | Himmler’s first adjutant (from July 1938); Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler; Ardennes offensive (December 1944) |
| Documents bearing his name | SS documents, award papers, signed photographs; post-war letters |
| In the collection | No pieces currently available |
Joachim Peiper served as Himmler’s adjutant and later led a Leibstandarte battle group in the Ardennes offensive, during which his unit murdered American prisoners at Malmédy and civilians in Stavelot.
Who Was Joachim Peiper?
Peiper joined the SS in October 1933 as an 18-year-old Berliner. From July 1938 he worked directly for Himmler as his first adjutant, and later served with the Leibstandarte. In December 1944 his unit spearheaded the Ardennes offensive toward the Meuse bridges, ran out of fuel and was surrounded at La Gleize.
What Documents Bear Peiper’s Signature?
His signature appears on SS documents, award papers and signed photographs, and on post-war letters. See original signature or facsimile.
What Should Collectors Watch For?
- Check SS posts and ranks against the date.
- Post-war letters should be described as such.
- Material connected with him must be described with the Malmédy crimes in mind.
Crimes and Fate
According to the official report, 86 American soldiers were killed at Malmédy and 164 civilians in Stavelot. Peiper was found guilty of war crimes and sentenced; he was released on parole in 1956. In 1976 he died when his house in France was set on fire, shortly after he was publicly identified.
Collector’s Note
Peiper’s documents cannot be separated from the crimes of his unit. That is the context I give any such piece.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Malmédy massacre?
The killing of American prisoners by Peiper’s unit in December 1944.
Was Peiper Himmler’s adjutant?
Yes, from July 1938.
How did Peiper die?
In a fire at his home in France in 1976.
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
- Europe Remembers, Joachim Peiper.