The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Signatories · Monarchy
Kaiser Wilhelm II (1859–1941): Signature, Documents and Historical Profile
| Born | 27 January 1859, Berlin |
|---|---|
| Died | 4 June 1941, Doorn, Netherlands |
| Reign | 15 June 1888 – November 1918 (abdication signed 28 November 1918) |
| Documents bearing his name | Patents, commissions, award documents, letters, signed photographs and exile correspondence |
| In the collection | See current pieces in the collection |
Wilhelm II was the last German Emperor. His bold signature, often written “Wilhelm I.R.” (Imperator Rex), appears on commissions, award patents and signed photographs, and is one of the most sought-after of the period, with an equally large market in facsimiles.
Who Was Kaiser Wilhelm II?
Wilhelm II was born in Berlin in 1859 and became German Emperor and King of Prussia on 15 June 1888. In March 1890 he forced the resignation of Chancellor Otto von Bismarck. On 4 August 1914 he called for national unity in the Reichstag; from 1916 his influence over the conduct of the war declined as Hindenburg and Ludendorff led the Supreme Army Command.
What Documents Bear II’s Signature?
His signature appears on officers’ commissions, award patents, letters and photographs, and on correspondence from his exile at Doorn. Many printed patents carry a facsimile signature. Heads of state and senior officials did not sign everything issued in their name: printed and stamped facsimiles, secretarial signatures and signatures “by order” are common on routine documents. See original signature or facsimile.
What Should Collectors Watch For?
- “Wilhelm I.R.” marks his reign; exile signatures differ.
- Printed facsimiles on patents and postcards are very common.
- Signed photographs from exile were produced in numbers; check provenance.
Abdication and Exile
Chancellor Max von Baden announced his abdication on 9 November 1918; the next day Wilhelm fled from Spa to the Netherlands and signed the formal abdication on 28 November. From 1919 he lived at Haus Doorn, where he died in 1941.
Collector’s Note
“Wilhelm I.R.” is one of the great signatures of the 20th century. I check every example against the line quality of authenticated exemplars, because the facsimiles are excellent.
Related Entries and Pieces
Pieces in the Collection
Browse current pieces related to Kaiser Wilhelm II in the Autographs & Militaria collection.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does “I.R.” after Wilhelm’s signature mean?
“Imperator Rex”, Emperor and King.
When did Wilhelm II abdicate?
His abdication was announced on 9 November 1918 and signed on 28 November 1918.
Where did Wilhelm II live in exile?
At Haus Doorn in the Netherlands.
Historical Responsibility Notice: this entry documents historical figures and artefacts for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology.
References & Further Reading
- Deutsches Historisches Museum, LeMO – Lebendiges Museum Online, Wilhelm II. 1859–1941 (G. Eikenberg and R. Platz; last updated 2021).