Germany, SS. A Rare Typewriter Belonging to SS-Obergruppenführer Karl Wolff, Mobile Model with Case, by Wanderer-Werke

(SS Schreibmaschine mit Etui). A rare, historically-significant, and exceptionally well-preserved typewriter from the estate of SS-Obergruppenführer Karl Wolff, Chief of Personal Staff to Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler. It is constructed of a heavy magnetic metal shell which measures 25.5 cm (w) x 28 cm (l) x 10 cm (h), painted in glossed black and with matte black magnetic metal panels fastened to the sides with multiple rivets. It features 45 fully functional keys encompassing the Latin alphabet, numerals 1-10, all German-language special characters (including umlauts and the eszett) and, most notably, a key for the double Sig runes used on official documentation for the SS. It retains a fully-functional sliding roller with a measurement bar graded for eight inches, complete with a line indicator and all stop and release levers in a similarly fully-functional condition. Both ribbon reals are similarly functional and intact. The front of the case bears a maker’s mark of “WANDERER-WERKE, SIEGMAR-SCHÖNAU”, with dual model marks of “CONTINENTAL”, indicating that the typewriter is the firm’s mobile variant of this particular model, favoured by German personnel who were frequently on the move consequent to duties. The back is stamped with a serial number of “R310672”. Importantly, pasted onto the frame directly beneath the space bar is a fully-intact Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) label bearing a partially-legible maker’s code. The typewriter is accompanied by its original and custom-fitted storage case, constructed of a sturdy wooden frame fully lined with an imitation black alligator skin liner. Consisting of two pieces, the interior of the base features a blue felt liner to mitigate surface scratching, and is riveted with four magnetic metal studs which meet analogous slots integrated into the base of the typewriter to hold it firmly in place during travel and use, aided by dual magnetic metal clips. The lid features a sturdy carrying handle constructed of lacquered black wood imitating a leather example, and closes3 with a functional magnetic metal lock with a sliding release. The case measures 33 cm (w) x 31 cm (l) x 15 cm (h) overall. With the exception of minor, age-appropriate material fatigue, this exceptionally rare and attributed example is in an overall extremely fine condition.