The collections of the German Historical Museum

With approximately 2,000 items, the collection of flags forms a separate section of the Collection Militaria. It bears a very differentiated profile. Flags are meaningful historical objects due to their symbolism and their conscious use of colors, and are able to prove and illustrate political and military events and occurences. The collection is the largest of its kind in Germany. It possesses exceptional pieces, such as standards from Kurbrandenburg, dating back to the 17th century, the Flag of Varennes, used for the arrest of the French monarch Louis XVI., and several revolutionary flags from 1848.

Additional to the holdings of flags and standards of army units before 1918, the collection also holds standards and ensigns captured in wars. These spoils come from the Wars of Liberation (1813-1815) and the War of Unification (1870/1871). Also on hand are flags and pennants from the Labor movements of the 19th and 20th centuries, including Social Democracy and communist organizations. Flags of workers' sports organizations, various societies and trade guilds have also been collected.

Political, economical, ideological, and cultural events and developments from East Germany can be excellently verified. Thus, the flag from the inauguration day of the Socialist Unity Party (SED) is as available as are examples from other parties and organizations of the socialist competition.

Have a look at the archive.