The Elastolin figure “Heer 2 Offiziere im Marsch” (Army 2 Officers Marching) represents a significant example of 20th-century German toy production while documenting an important chapter in military-historical everyday culture.

The Elastolin Company and Its History

The Elastolin brand was developed by the firm O. & M. Hausser in Ludwigsburg near Stuttgart. Christian Hausser founded the company in 1904, and by 1910 his son Otto Hausser had developed the innovative material Elastolin, a composition of glue, casein, chalk, and glycerin. This material enabled the production of detailed yet durable play figures that were more unbreakable and lighter than traditional tin soldiers.

The standard size of 7.5 cm, as seen in these figures, established itself as the classic format for Hausser production and became the industry standard for mass-produced figures. This size offered an ideal compromise between detail accuracy and playability.

Wehrmacht Officers as Subject Matter

The depiction of two marching officers of the Heer (German Army land forces) reflects the military reality of the 1930s and 1940s. The Wehrmacht was founded in 1935, replacing the Reichswehr. Officers wore characteristic uniforms with specific rank insignia, shoulder boards, and equipment items, which Elastolin reproduced with remarkable attention to detail.

The marching pose was a popular motif in military toy production, as it symbolized movement and military discipline. Officers were frequently depicted with binoculars, map cases, or command batons to emphasize their leadership role.

Production and Historical Context

The peak period of Elastolin military figure production occurred between 1925 and 1945. During the Third Reich, military toy production experienced enormous growth, as military education and preparation for military service were state-sponsored. Hausser produced not only individual figures but also complete military scenarios with artillery, vehicles, and buildings.

After World War II, the production of military toys was initially banned in Germany. Hausser resumed operations in 1948 but initially focused on civilian themes, Western scenarios, and wildlife. Wehrmacht figures were no longer produced, making pre-war and wartime productions sought-after collector's items.

Collector Value and Condition Assessment

The stated Condition 2 according to the standard collector's scale (which typically ranges from 1 for mint condition to 6 for heavily damaged) indicates a well-preserved figure with minimal signs of use. For Elastolin figures, particularly important factors include: preservation of paint, completeness of the figure (no broken parts), stability of the material (no cracks or material fatigue), and authenticity.

Material Science Aspects

The Elastolin composition was robust but subject to aging processes. Moisture and extreme temperatures could damage the material. Well-preserved specimens from before 1945 are therefore particularly valuable. Painting was usually done by hand or using stencils, with colors potentially fading or changing over the decades.

Historical Significance for Collectors

Today, Elastolin figures are coveted collector's items that not only spark military-historical interest but also document the history of the German toy industry. They offer insights into uniform studies, military organization, and the everyday culture of a bygone era. Collectors particularly value early productions, rare variants, and complete sets in good condition.

The Hausser company existed under various names until 1983, when production was finally discontinued. Today, historical Elastolin figures are traded at auctions and by specialized collectors, where they are regarded as important historical documents of German military and toy history. These artifacts serve as tangible connections to a complex period, offering researchers and enthusiasts alike valuable insights into material culture, manufacturing techniques, and social attitudes of the early-to-mid 20th century.