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Unread 10-17-2017, 02:20 PM   #1
JimD
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Default 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"
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Unread 10-17-2017, 02:32 PM   #2
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I am pretty sure that Centuria means like platoon, as company was either Company or Kompanie.

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Unread 10-17-2017, 02:34 PM   #3
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Edward Tinker View Post
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.
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Unread 10-17-2017, 02:59 PM   #4
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Think "Precinct".
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Unread 10-17-2017, 03:20 PM   #5
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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.
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Unread 10-17-2017, 03:24 PM   #6
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"Centuria" is borrowed from the Roman Legion. For Weimar police it typically refers to a unit of about 120 men.
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Unread 10-17-2017, 05:14 PM   #7
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Thanks for all the good info. It makes historical items come alive.
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