Translation of unit mark
 

I'm buying the 1917/1920 Erfurt that David Udon recently listed. The front strap is marked, "S.D.I." I understand that means Schutzpolizei Dusseldorf I Centuria. I've done an internet search but can't find what Centuria translates to as it pertains to Weimar era police.

Sorry, wrong forum. Please move to "Unit Markings"

I am pretty sure that Centuria means like platoon, as company was either Company or Kompanie.

Ed

Thanks, Ed. I figured it was something along those lines. I make notes on all my historical guns and like to be as accurate as possible on the meaning of markings.

It's about time I started buying some Luger books.

Think "Precinct".

S.D. stands for the Schutzpolizei of the Prussian administrative district (Regierungsbezirk) of Düsseldorf, not the city. The Roman numeral I. indicates the Schupo command in the city of Essen in that district. See item 1 in http://www.historywritinsteel.com/New_Insights.html.

"Centuria" is borrowed from the Roman Legion. For Weimar police it typically refers to a unit of about 120 men.

Thanks for all the good info. It makes historical items come alive.