EAST GERMAN BLACK LEATHER MAP CASE USED

Originally issued to officers and NCOs of the East German Nationale Volksarmee (NVA), this leather map case (Kartentasche) was a standard piece of Cold War-era field kit used to carry topographic maps, orders, written reports, pencils, and small navigation tools. Built to a sober, practical specification, it folds open to keep documents flat and protected while the wearer is on foot, in a vehicle, or in the command tent. As authentic surplus from a state that no longer exists, every piece carries genuine DDR provenance — not a copy.

The case is constructed from sturdy black leather with a structured, slim profile that sits cleanly against the body. A full-coverage flap closes over the main compartment and is secured by a leather tongue running through a metal buckle keeper, giving the case its distinctive NVA silhouette. A detachable leather shoulder strap with metal snap hooks is included, allowing the case to be slung over the shoulder or across the chest; D-rings on the body also make it compatible with belt-style carry.

Who It Sells To

• Cold War and DDR/NVA collectors building authentic loadouts
• Reenactors and living-history groups portraying Warsaw Pact forces
• Militaria shops and surplus retailers looking for genuine Eastern Bloc inventory
• Field-journal users, sketchers, and everyday carriers who want a rugged leather document case with real history

Key Features

• Genuine East German (DDR) NVA surplus — authentic issue, not a remake
• Durable black leather construction with structured body and full-cover flap
• Leather closure strap secured through a metal buckle keeper
• Detachable leather shoulder strap with metal snap hooks included
• D-ring attachment points for shoulder or belt carry
• Interior compartments sized for folded maps, paperwork, and small field gear

Condition

Issued and used. Expect honest field-use character — scuffs, surface marks, patina on the metal hardware, and softening of the leather consistent with service age. All cases remain fully functional and carry the authentic look that collectors and reenactors specifically seek out. The brown example shown in the image is for reference only; this listing is for the black version.