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Third Reich Germany. German Identity Card (Kennkarte), 1940
The Kennkarte was the primary civilian identity document of the Third Reich. Introduced in July 1938, it became the standard form of identification for German citizens and, following the outbreak of the Second World War, its use was gradually extended to territories occupied by Germany.
Kennkarten were typically issued by police authorities and contained personal information, a photograph, and official validation stamps. German citizens were required to carry the document and present it upon request by the authorities.
This example was issued on 3 June 1940. It retains the original photograph of its holder as well as the official seal bearing the national eagle and swastika, issued under the authority of the local Chief of Police during the wartime period.
Original German Second World War document.
