This collection of twelve Elastolin Army soldiers in prone position represents a fascinating chapter in German toy history and military material culture. The company O. & M. Hausser from Neustadt near Coburg developed the material Elastolin from 1926 onwards, an innovative composition made from casein, chalk, glycerin, and other components that was harder and more weather-resistant than traditional lead figures.

The figures depict a German Wehrmacht soldier in characteristic field uniform wearing a Schiffchen (garrison cap) in a left-lying firing position. This pose corresponds to the tactical training regulations of the 1930s and 1940s, where soldiers were trained to fire from various positions during combat. The Schiffchen was the typical headgear for German soldiers outside of direct combat engagement and was worn according to Army Service Regulations (Heeresdienstvorschrift).

The production number 0/550/4 on the original label indicates the Hausser company's production system. During the 1930s, the company expanded considerably and produced millions of figures for the German and international markets. The designation “1 Dz.” (one dozen) shows that these figures were sold wholesale, typically to toy retailers.

The 7.5 cm series was the standard format for Elastolin figures, allowing detailed representations while maintaining affordable production costs. The figures were manufactured in several stages: first, the Elastolin mass was pressed into metal molds, then mounted on wire frames, and finally hand-painted. The painting followed the official Wehrmacht uniform regulations, depicting the typical field-grey uniform and correct insignia.

Historically, such toy figures fulfilled multiple functions during the interwar period and World War II. On one hand, they served children's entertainment; on the other, they reflected the increasing militarization of German society. From 1933 onwards, the Hausser company increasingly produced military figures corresponding to the various Wehrmacht service branches.

The preservation in original packaging is particularly noteworthy, as most Elastolin figures were used as toys and thereby damaged, or their packaging discarded. The label with precise product designation is a valuable historical document providing insight into the commercial organization and distribution structure of the toy industry of that era.

After 1945, the Hausser company converted its production to peaceful themes, with cowboys, Indians, and circus figures replacing the military series. Elastolin production was finally discontinued in the 1980s. Today, these figures are sought-after collector's items documenting both the craftsmanship quality of German toy manufacturing and the problematic history of militarization.

The Condition 2 (very good) indicates minimal signs of use, which is exceptional for figures of this age. This underscores the historical and collector value of this group. For military historians, such objects are important sources for understanding material culture and the social normalization of military symbolism in the first half of the 20th century.