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NSDAP Membership Book: History, Contents and Collector’s Guide

Membership card Issued on admission; membership took effect when it was handed over
Membership book Issued after longer membership, usually about two years, in exchange for the card
Membership numbers Unique, assigned centrally by the Reich Treasurer; over 10 million by 1945
Ownership Card and book remained party property
In the collection No pieces currently available

The NSDAP membership card and the red membership book documented a person’s membership of the Nazi Party. Each carries a unique membership number, which places the holder precisely in the history of the party.

What Is a NSDAP Membership Book?

According to the Bundesarchiv, a new member first received a membership card, handed over by the local party leader; membership became legally effective at that moment. After longer membership, usually about two years, the card was exchanged for the red membership book, with a photograph. Membership numbers were assigned centrally by the Reich Treasurer and never reissued; more than ten million had been assigned by 1945. A general freeze on new members was imposed in 1933 and formally lifted on 10 May 1939.

Who Issued It, and Who Signed It?

Cards and books were issued through the Reich Treasurer’s office and handed over by local party leaders, with dues stamps added regularly. The central membership card index, now in the Bundesarchiv, allows numbers and dates to be checked. See NSDAP party badge.

What Should Collectors Watch For?

  • Membership number and joining date should be consistent with the period (for example, the 1933–1937 freeze).
  • Photograph and stamps must be original.
  • Personal data: handle the names of real members with discretion.

Collector’s Note

A membership number is a precise historical fact. I check it against the dates in the book before anything else.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What was the difference between the membership card and book?

The card was issued on admission; the book replaced it after longer membership.

How many membership numbers were issued?

More than ten million by 1945, according to the Bundesarchiv.

When was the membership freeze lifted?

Formally on 10 May 1939.

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