Austria - Military accessories - 1915

Exclusive and rare official seal of field wax for the Austro-Hungarian Army field police (K.u.K. Feldgendarmerie), dating from World War I. The solid brass circular die bears a mirror-imaged engraving of the negative: “★ K. U. K. FELDGENDARMERIEPOSTEN N. 7” (Imperial and Royal Field Gendarmerie Post No. 7).
In the center stands the official heraldic emblem of the Habsburg monarchy: the imperial double-headed eagle crowned, gripping in its talons the sword, the scepter, and the globus cruciger.
The “Posten” of the Feldgendarmerie were mobile detachments of military police stationed close to the front lines. Their task was to manage rear-area security, monitor prisoners of war, and authenticate tactical secret dispatches. The low numbering (No. 7) indicates a unit of very early mobilization, making this relic much rarer and more sought after than the common stamps of contemporary post or civilian offices.
The item presents in excellent overall condition for its era. The ergonomic dark wooden handle is solid and free of cracks or fissures. The brass plate shows a beautiful intact patina of time that certifies its authenticity. All micro-engraved details of the eagle and the typography are incredibly sharp and perfectly preserved, ready for collection or for use to impress seals.
A piece of military history from the Great War of absolute significance, ideal for collectors of Austro-Hungarian militaria and objects from the era of the Habsburg monarchy.
Manufacturer: R. Gärdtner & Comp. (Vienna - Atzgersdorf, Austria). Founded in 1878, it was the first and most important stamp factory of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, as well as the official supplier to the Imperial and Royal Ministries (k.k. Ministerien) and to the state police forces. The stamp on the collar guarantees the piece’s authenticity and high collectible value.