Two Exceptional Keepsakes from the Collection of Crown Prince Wilhelm of Prussia

Imperial Provenance and Courtly Culture

This rare ensemble brings together two authentic keepsakes from the circle of Crown Prince Wilhelm of Prussia (1882–1951), the eldest son of Emperor Wilhelm II and Empress Augusta Victoria. Both objects reflect the representative culture of the German Imperial House and impressively document the personal effects of one of the most well-known members of the Hohenzollern dynasty.

The pieces are presented in a specially made piano-lacquered box, which provides the ensemble with a worthy and representative setting.

Silver Cigarette Case by J. B. Werner, Berlin

At the center is an elegant silver cigarette case, fire-gilded on the inside. The outside features the gilded monogram “W” for Crown Prince Wilhelm beneath a golden imperial crown. The high-quality craftsmanship underscores the exclusive character of this personal item from the circle of the Prussian heir apparent.

Inside is the signature of the Berlin jeweler J. B. Werner, a renowned gold and silver goods company that was known during the imperial era for its discerning clientele and high-quality luxury items. The present hallmarks of a crescent moon and crown confirm that it was made in the German Empire.

The case is in very good condition. There is only a small dent on the back. The striking strip was replaced at a later date.

Dimensions: 6 × 9 × 2 cm
Weight: approx. 150 g

Presentation Pin by H. J. Wilm, Berlin Court Jeweler

The ensemble is complemented by a rare presentation pin made of 800 silver in its original case. The lid features a gold-embossed crown as an indication of its connection to the Imperial House.

The pin was made by H. J. Wilm, Berlin, one of the most important court jewelers of the German Empire. Founded in 1768, the company was one of the leading suppliers to the Prussian and later Imperial Court for generations. Wilm produced orders, decorations, jewelry, and silver luxury items for members of the Hohenzollern family as well as for numerous European noble houses. Pieces bearing the signature of H. J. Wilm are considered particularly sought-after examples of courtly craftsmanship today.

Length of the presentation pin: 6 cm
Dimensions of the case: 9.5 × 3.5 × 2 cm

Caricature of the Crown Prince on the Lid

A particular rarity is the original caricature of Crown Prince Wilhelm affixed to the lid of the box. In it, the Crown Prince appears in a highly stylized form, wearing a uniform and smoking a cigarette. Such caricatures were exceptionally popular during the late imperial era and especially during World War I.

The members of the Imperial Family, particularly Emperor Wilhelm II and Crown Prince Wilhelm, were among the most frequently caricatured figures of their time. Satirical artists captured the distinctive features of the ruling family and published their works in illustrated magazines, artist albums, and humorous collections. While many caricatures offered political criticism, private and courtly depictions with a humorous character also emerged, circulating within aristocratic circles.

The present drawing gives the ensemble an exceptionally personal touch and complements the two pieces of jewelry with a charming historical document.

Rare Hohenzollern Collector's Ensemble

The combination of the Crown Prince's personal cigarette case, a presentation pin made by H. J. Wilm, the humorous caricature, and the high-quality presentation in a specially made box makes this ensemble truly unique on the German market.