This WWII German WHW Meldereiter miniature figure represents a classic collectible from the era. The National Socialist People’s Welfare (NSV) ran the Winterhilfswerk des Deutschen Volkes (WHW) as an annual fundraising campaign. Founded in 1933, the WHW funded many NSV activities. It grew into the second largest mass organization in Nazi Germany. Official policy called donations voluntary. However, German citizens faced intense social pressure to contribute. Street collectors gave small badges like this plastic item to donors as receipts.
Historical Context and Details
Street level charity drives produced millions of small pins and miniatures in various materials, including molded grey resin. This WWII German WHW Meldereiter piece depicts a Wehrmacht dispatch rider (Meldereiter) on horseback at a full gallop with his rifle slung across his back. Collectors value these miniature items for their sharp detail and historical significance.
