Date of use : 1940 Germany

Wartime Optics and Propaganda Postcard, 1940

This postcard was sent in 1940 from Heidelberg, Germany, to the J. Weidinger Fotohaus company located in Linz, Austria. Although the sender's company name is not explicitly mentioned on the card, the content suggests that it was a firm dealing in binoculars or similar optical devices, and that it held bank accounts in several European countries. This indicates that the company operated on an international scale, with regular shipments at least within the Central European region.

While little is known about the recipient company, the term "Fotohaus" implies that it was either a photographic studio or a retailer of photographic equipment. Thus, the card reflects the commercial connections between the fields of optics and photography during that era.

The content of the card is not limited to commercial information; it also includes propaganda elements typical of the wartime period. At the bottom of the message, it is stated that cash on delivery (Nachnahme) incurs an additional fee, while advance payment (Vorkasse) allows for free shipping. It is also emphasized that international shipments were only possible with advance payment.

A special cancellation mark on the card reads:

"Die Front kämpft – die Heimat spart. Kriegshilfswerk für das Deutsche Rote Kreuz"

"The front fights – the homeland saves. War Relief Organization for the German Red Cross"

This slogan is a classic example of World War II propaganda. It underlines the idea that the war effort was not limited to the battlefield, but that the civilian population was also expected to contribute—through saving and supporting organizations like the German Red Cross.

When we look at the back side of the card, we see that the sender is Ferdinand Acker, an optical company based in Heidelberg, Germany. This card serves as a discounted microscope sales list published by the company. It features a wide range of microscope models, from simple student microscopes to advanced professional laboratory instruments, each listed with its specific features and prices.

At the top of the card, the following headline is prominently displayed:

"Sonderangebot! Mikroskope"

"Special Offer! Microscopes"

Just below the headline, an important note appears:

"Die Preise gelten nur für die ab Lager lieferbaren Instrumente, sonst freibleibend. Zwischenverkauf vorbehalten."

This to:

"Prices apply only to instruments available from stock; otherwise, they are non-binding. Subject to prior sale."

This statement emphasizes that the microscopes listed in the catalog are available in limited quantities and that the prices apply only while supplies last. It also clearly indicates that the company reserves the right to sell the products in the meantime and that the listed prices are not guaranteed.

This item is documented as part of the Photography in Postal History research project.
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