Description
PRUSSIA – POSTCARD – ADMIRAL FRANZ VON HIPPER – NAVY.
Franz von Hipper (1863-1932) was one of WW I Germany’s greatest naval heroes. His career had exhibited a steady upward progression through the ranks. He served as Kaiser Wilhelm II’s royal yacht commander from 1899 to 1902, which attracted attention that helped advance his career. Once WW I began, Hipper was placed in command of th I. Scouting Group. He was serving in that role during the Battle of Jutland (Skagerrakschlacht). When his flagship was destroyed, he transferred his flag to another ship. He then placed his command in harm’s way, which allowed Admiral Reinhard Scheer to withdraw with the bulk of the German High Seas Fleet, including its precious battleships. Von Hipper received the Orden Pour le Mérite after the Battle of Jutland, as well as the Bavarian Knight’s Cross of the Military Order of Max Joseph, which included an elevation to Bavarian Knighthood.
In August 1918 Großadmiral Henning von Holtzendorff, Germany’s Chief of the Naval Staff, was forced to retire for health reasons. His position was assumed by the German High Seas Fleet Commander, Admiral Reinhard Scheer. At the same time, Von Hipper was concurrently promoted to the rank of Admiral AND promoted to replace as Commander of the High Seas Fleet. Von Hipper served in that position through WW I’s end, then retired.
This postcard depicts Von Hipper in his naval uniform. He is sporting a large Frack Bar, and what appears to be three or four neck orders. I do NOT see a PLM, so the photo may be prior to June 1916. Although some information is written on its reverse, the postcard was not mailed. It is in very fine condition.
