Del Prado Obergefreiter Cav Recce 1941

DEL PRADO OBERGEFREITER CAV.RECCE. GERMAN SOLDIER 1941

Overview

Introduction and set overview
Historical context: Obergefreiter rank and cavalry reconnaissance in 1941
Collector notes: identification, condition, variants, market

This review examines the Del Prado “Obergefreiter Cav. Recce. Rgt. Germany 1941” figure from the “Men at War” collection. The hand‑painted die‑cast figure stands approximately 7 cm (2 3/4″)—around 1:30–1:32 scale—and depicts a German cavalry reconnaissance Obergefreiter in summer 1941 uniform. Moreover, the miniature includes period‑appropriate insignia and equipment and is issued in blister packaging with a certificate of authenticity. This review explores both the practicality of the figure and the historical context it represents for collectors.

Historical Background

In summer 1941, German cavalry reconnaissance regiments played vital roles on the Eastern Front, screening advances and conducting intelligence gathering ahead of motorized columns. These regiments evolved from traditional horse‑mounted cavalry units and were integral to Blitzkrieg tactics, despite increasing mechanization being introduced concurrently. Reconnaissance elements often included mounted troops, horse‑drawn guns, motorcycles, cars, and armored vehicles to aggregate flexibility and speed (military-review.com). The rank of Obergefreiter in the Wehrmacht was a senior enlisted rank, above Gefreiter and below Unteroffizier, often awarded to those who demonstrated reliability or had command of small teams. Insignia from 1936 show two downward‑pointing silver chevrons on a dark blue‑green backing for Heer troops; earlier versions included variants for service duration (en.wikipedia.org).

In 1941, an Obergefreiter in a cavalry reconnaissance regiment would likely wear branch‑colour piping (typically light yellow or similar) on shoulder boards or sleeve, as was standard for mounted units. In mid‑1941, Germany launched Operation Barbarossa on 22 June, invading the Soviet Union. Cavalry reconnaissance units were deployed in wide rural and forested territories in Poland, Belarus, and Ukraine to secure flanks, screen armored formations, and locate enemy positions. Their mobility made them effective in varied terrain, enabling patrols and rapid communication. The figure’s portrayal of summer uniform and cavalry‑appropriate gear reflects the Wehrmacht’s early Barbarossa posture, before full mechanization replaced horse‑mounted roles later in the war.

Collector Notes

The Del Prado figure “Obergefreiter Cav. Recce. Rgt. Germany 1941” is part of the “Men at War” series (approx. 1:30–1:32 scale, about 7 cm tall), die‑cast metal, hand‑painted, and issued in a blister pack with a Certificate of Authenticity (worthpoint.com). The original sculpting is credited to Andy Neilson of King & Country (planetelegendaire.com). Identification tips: look for two silver chevrons (Obergefreiter insignia) and cavalry reconnaissance gear—likely field‑grey tunic, breeches, sidearm, possibly field binoculars or map case. The blister card often bears Del Prado branding and the set’s identification number (commonly Box 95). Variants are rare, but mispaints may occur. Condition: new‑in‑package versions retain higher value; prices on secondary markets hover around €5–15 based on listing data (ebay.ca).

Loose or used figures sell for slightly less, though intact paint and recognizable markings preserve collector interest (worthpoint.com). Packaging and defects: blister cards may show wear or edge scuffs, which affects value. Certificates are occasionally missing in loose items—verify inclusion. Paint wear occurs on extremities (hands, rifle, helmet) so inspect seams closely. In summary, the Del Prado Obergefreiter Cav Recce figure offers a historically accurate and collectible representation of a German cavalry reconnaissance enlisted man in 1941. It’s affordable, detailed, and valuable for both display and historical modeling.