Lot 326: Unsere Reichsmarine German Naval Life, Cigarette Trade Cards, c. 1933-1935 Approx 50 Cards No's Between 202-270

This lot comprises a collection of vintage German cigarette trade cards, known as Sammelbilder, from the series titled Unsere Reichsmarine: Bilder aus dem Leben der Matrosen (Our Imperial Navy: Pictures from the Life of Sailors). The cards were issued by CAID-Bilderzentrale, Berlin, for CAID Cigarettes between 1933 and 1935. This specific period marks the transition of the German navy from the Reichsmarine to the Kriegsmarine, which is reflected in the iconography, including the Reichsadler with swastika on the ship’s bow and the naval ensign. The photographic scenes depict various aspects of maritime life, including heavy deck guns, sailors sleeping in hammocks, galley duties, and ceremonial events. A particularly unusual card features a ship’s mascot, a tiger, in a cage on deck. The reverse of card number 202 includes text describing how boatswain’s mates traditionally whistled and sang out commands. It also notes that the full series comprises 270 images. Each card features a glossy photographic finish. Dimensions: 62 mm x 52 mm.