Original WWI German real photo postcard (RPPC) showing a group of Imperial German soldiers gathered outdoors in winter conditions around a decorated Christmas tree, likely set up in camp near the front.

Scenes like this are highly collectible as they capture the human side of wartime life, especially holiday observances at the front. The presence of a Christmas tree strongly suggests a field celebration or memorial during the winter of 1917–1918.

Front Details:

• Real photograph in postcard format

• Approx. 12 German soldiers in uniform

• Clearly centered around a decorated Christmas tree

• Snow-covered ground and forest background

• Classic Eastern Front winter setting

Back Details & Writing:

The reverse is fully written and historically important:

• Dated: 20 January 1918

• Location reference: near Riga (Latvia)

• Contains a list of multiple soldiers’ names and ranks

This is a key feature—these types of named group postcards are far more desirable, as they offer potential for:

• Unit identification

• Genealogical research

• Personal connection to specific soldiers

Full Message Translation (Summary):

Written shortly after the holiday period, the sender describes winter conditions and life at the front near Riga. The message reflects on daily routines and the shared experience among comrades. The inclusion of multiple names suggests the card may have been sent as a group greeting or remembrance from the unit, likely tied to the Christmas celebration shown on the front.

Condition:

• Good overall condition for WWI-era RPPC

• Light surface wear and minor spotting

• Edge wear consistent with age

• Writing remains clear and legible

• Photo retains solid contrast

Collector Highlights / Value Notes:

• Dated January 1918 (late WWI)

• Confirmed Riga / Eastern Front location

• Rare Christmas tree scene at the front

• Group of identifiable soldiers (names & ranks listed)

• Strong crossover appeal:

  • WWI collectors

  • German military history

  • Christmas / holiday wartime themes

  • Genealogy / named soldiers

Estimated Value:

• Typical range: $60–100

• Premium due to:
  ✔ Christmas scene
  ✔ Named soldiers
  ✔ Eastern Front (Riga)

Shipping:

• Ships securely from sunny Florida

• Combined shipping available

• Packed carefully for preservation

Keywords:

WWI German postcard, Christmas tree soldiers, Riga 1918, Imperial German Army, Eastern Front WW1, named soldiers postcard, German RPPC, WW1 holiday scene, military Christmas photo, German soldiers snow, WW1 group photo postcard, Riga Latvia WWI