The auction of three original manuscripts connected to the 1634 assassination of Duke Albrecht von Wallenstein in Cheb has captured the attention of historians and collectors alike. The documents were sold for €60,000 to the German Historical Museum in Berlin, highlighting their historical significance.
These manuscripts, particularly notable for their unique content, were believed to serve as evidence of Wallenstein's betrayal. Michaela Bäumlová from the Cheb Museum emphasized their rarity, stating that while five copies were created, four were presumed destroyed shortly after Wallenstein's murder.
The preserved documents originated from the Schaffgotsch estate library in Silesia. General Hans Ulrich Schaffgotsch, a loyal officer to Wallenstein, had sent these papers to Silesia before his arrest on February 24, 1634. He was executed in July 1635 for his alleged involvement in a conspiracy against Wallenstein.
One of the manuscripts, known as the First Plzeň Reverse, features the signatures of nearly fifty army officers and the seal of Marshal Christian Ilow. Created on January 12, 1634, in Plzeň, this document was used by one of the signatories, General Ottavio Piccolomini, as proof of Wallenstein's treachery, leading to the Duke's assassination.
The other two documents were addressed to the Imperial Court in Vienna, affirming loyalty to the Emperor. Despite their assurances, they could not prevent Wallenstein's fate. The Cheb Museum continues to display numerous artifacts related to Wallenstein, including the room where he was murdered.
Bäumlová noted that the manuscripts could not be acquired by Czech institutions due to cultural heritage laws in Germany, which restrict the export of such items without special permission.