Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. Now this is something we have only had a few times before: an original German WWII Schutzstaffel (SS) typewriter! This is a ROBUST model, made by OLYMPIA BÜROMASCHINENWERKE AG. ERFURT (Olympia Office Machine Works Co), as noted on the label inside of the transit chest. There is also the script logo Olympia on the typewriter itself, which is marked on the bottom with serial number 468482. The typewriter seems to be fully functional, though a few small parts are probably missing. This example has a unit marking for the 8th SS Cavalry Division.
Now, the question most have is "what makes this an SS typewriter?". That would be the "shift" position shown on the machines key for 5, which is the double Sig rune emblem of the SS: ᛋᛋ. The key bar itself has this on it, and it is definitely the original one. Most examples of these had the marking scratched out so it could still be used, but this example still has the mark fully intact!
This Typewriter comes complete with its original wooden transit chest, which retains its stenciling on the original exterior paint. The stenciling reads
SCHREIB
MASCHINE
EP 40408
There is also a hand-drawn insignia on the bottom right corner of the top lid depicting a horse and sword inside a shield, for the 8th SS Cavalry Division. There are a great number of scuffs and scratches on the exterior paint, but it’s still more than we’ve ever seen before!
The typewriter has an inner label reading KURZE ERKLÄRUNG DER OLYMPIA ROBUST (Short Explanation of Olympia ROBUST) on the inside of the lid. The chest, measuring 15" x 14" x 6 1/2", still retains a some of the original olive green paint, with overall wear from use and age. There is some oxidation on the hardware, but it still locks closed securely.
This is an excellent opportunity to own a rare piece of military office equipment, still in very nice condition. Ready to add to your collection and display!
The 8th SS Cavalry Division "Florian Geyer" was a German Waffen-SS cavalry division during World War II. It was formed in 1942 from a cadre of the SS Cavalry Brigade which was involved in the Bandenbekämpfung ("bandit-fighting") operations behind the front line and was responsible for the killing of tens of thousands of the civilian population. It continued "pacification" operations in the occupied Soviet Union, leading to further atrocities.
- This product is available for international shipping. Shipping not available to: Australia, France, or Germany
- Due to legal restrictions this item cannot be shipped to Australia, France or Germany. This is not a comprehensive list and other countries may be added in the future.
- Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon
