WWII German Reichsbahn Gold Railway Eagle – “LOK RZA 4 BLN”

This impressive and rare WWII German Reichsbahn eagle is a cast aluminium alloy insignia once mounted on Deutsche Reichsbahn rolling stock during the Nazi era. Measuring approximately 60 cm in wingspan (24.75 inches) and weighing around 3.5 kg, it features the classic Third Reich eagle clutching a wreath and swastika, finished in gold leaf, much of which remains beautifully intact. This finish is exceptionally rare, indicating use on higher-echelon wagons or ceremonial locomotives.

What sets this eagle apart is the clearly defined casting marks on the reverse. Stamped into the alloy are:

• “LOK” – likely denoting usage on a locomotive or as part of locomotive-assigned insignia,
• “RZA 4” – referring to the Reichsbahn-Zentralamt (Railway Central Office) 4, located in Berlin,
• “BLN” – abbreviation for Berlin, confirming depot and regional origin,
• And “GAL Mg Si”, which denotes the alloy composition — Galvanised Aluminium with Magnesium and Silicon, a durable material commonly used during the war for both rail and Luftwaffe components due to its light weight and corrosion resistance.

The reverse also shows integral mounting bosses, indicating original installation on a flat vertical surface, almost certainly on Reichsbahn property — likely a locomotive, staff wagon, or administrative rolling stock given the high-end finish.

🏷️ Historical Context & Significance

These eagles were emblematic of Nazi Germany's control and centralisation of the rail network under the Deutsche Reichsbahn, a vital part of the regime's military-industrial complex. The RZA offices, including RZA 4 Berlin, were responsible for maintenance, provisioning, and outfitting of rolling stock — meaning this eagle would have passed through official state rail channels before being affixed to a wagon or locomotive.

Very few “LOK” marked eagles with gold finish have survived in this condition, as most were stripped from vehicles, melted down post-war, or have lost their finish entirely. The combination of original gold leaf, depot stamping, and untouched patina makes this a particularly scarce survivor and an excellent centrepiece for a serious WWII or Reichsbahn collection.

✅ Summary:

• Type: WWII Deutsche Reichsbahn Eagle
• Dimensions: 60 x 20 x 2 cm
• Weight: 3.5 kg
• Material: GAL-Mg-Si Alloy
• Markings: LOK | RZA 4 | BLN | GAL Mg Si
• Finish: Original gold leaf (largely intact)
• Condition: Untouched, never cleaned or polished
• Use: Locomotive or special-purpose wagon (likely administrative or ceremonial)