Original German Pre-WWII 1937 Dated Luftwaffe M35 Brown Leather Map Case by Joseph Moll with Recon Unit Marking Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Map cases were issued on a limited basis to specifically designated personnel such as unit commanders, pilots, and observers. The M35 map/dispatch case was based on the Weimar era, Reichsheer pattern map/dispatch case with minor variations. The M35 map/dispatch case underwent a front closure modification in mid-1936, and an additional small front pocket was added in 1938, although the early pattern cases continued to be manufactured through-out the war. This example, unlike most we see, has a full front closure flap.

Made of a chocolate brown, pebbled leather, this early pattern Luftwaffe M35 map case is in good service used condition! It features a full size fold-over top flap with a vertical closure strap, as well as various pockets for a ruler, pencils, and various other map accessories. The hardware is all aluminum, correct for early production, and this also prevented any interference with using a compass. The rear has two vertical belt loop straps and buckles. Interior has two compartments with a central leather separators. The leather is still in very good shape. Overall the case measures about 10 ½”H x 7 ½”W x 2″.

The map case, unlike many we see, still has a full maker marking on the inside, though it can be hard to read due to the pebble grain texture:

JOSEPH MOLL
GOCH
1937

This is located on the interior, just below the top above the pencil slots. The inside of the top flap has additional markings of interest, including what looks to be a name after Fw, the abbreviation for Feldwebel, a Luftwaffe rank equivalent to a “Flight Sergeant”. Below this is is the marking L.B.A. B.37, for the Luftwaffebekleidungsamt, which means Air Force Clothing Office. Most likely it was processed through the Berlin office in 1937. Stamped below this is a unit marking Aufkl. Gr. 122, short for Aufklärung Gruppe 122 (Reconnaissance Group 122). We very rarely get items with such great markings and research potential!

Condition overall is good, especially considering the age. The leather is still mostly supple, though a bit dusty in areas, and there is some flaking of the finish on the bottom. The stitching is mostly intact, with the side stitching still in very good shape.

A very nice piece of genuine German WWII field gear with some fantastic markings, ready to research and display!