Coat of Arms, Germany, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

This tobacco card, printed by the Kinney Brothers, presents the German coat of arms. Here, the dominant symbol is the eagle, a motif stretching back to ancient Rome. The eagle, often associated with power, victory, and divine authority, became a central emblem for the German Empire, especially during the reign of the Hohenzollern monarchs. We see how this proud, ancient emblem becomes the very symbol of imperial ambition. Yet, the eagle symbol is much older. Consider its appearances in ancient Mesopotamia, where it was associated with kings and gods, or in the Roman Empire. The image of the eagle has morphed and adapted, acquiring new layers of meaning. The adoption of such potent symbols speaks to a deep, perhaps subconscious, desire to connect with historical power and legitimacy. It stirs profound emotions. This card speaks of cultural memory—of how symbols endure and transform.