"German Tank Markings" Topic

We recently started a rpg where the players are the crew of a Panzer V. Did the Germans name their tanks? Paint the names and or pictures on their tanks, like the Allies would? What kind of official markings would you find on the tank? I have absolutely no clue about this. Probably doesn't matter at this point because we got dinged up pretty well when we had to end for the night, but damn , I be liking my crappy engined panther. : )

Yes, they had tank names, but on a more ad-hoc basis than e.g. the official Squadron names used by the British. They appear to be the exception rather than the rule.

Tactical markings are usually the division symbol on the right hand side front and rear panels, facing towards the tank, and possibly the panzer regiment tactical symbol on the left, although these became rarer as the war progressed.

Otherwise it is turret numbers, most common is the three number system (company/platoon/vehicle) but there were other variations.

Some units had various odd turret heraldry, but these were usually formation specific.

National markings were balkan crosses, generally on the hull sides for Panthers.

Late war vehicles were often pretty plain (turret numbers and crosses only) as vehicle attrition rates were extremely high by 1944.

This model of a Panther G is fairly typical:

Tanks were very rarely named, but aircraft – well that's another matter and you can find some interesting designs on both German fighter and bomber aircraft – given that this is Weird War. Why not add aircraft markings to your tanks?

Here are a couple of examples;

I hope that this helps.

Tony

Thanks guys, appreciate the info. : )

Tanks named after girlfriends is somewhat common too, here's "Sofie":

If you want some Panther markings nothing like the snarling head of a Panther!
link

Not sure if made in smaller scales. What scale is your Panther?