A set of two maps, each measuring 65 x 51 cm (folded double-sheet size), accompanied by a premium facsimile of the famous Order of the Day issued by Supreme Allied Commander General Dwight D. Eisenhower to hundreds of thousands of Allied troops before the D-Day assault on Normandy.
The maps are divided into two sections: the western and eastern sectors of Omaha Beach. They provide a detailed record of the Normandy coastline, tidal flats, underwater terrain, current directions, beach obstacles, and German defensive positions and bunkers (marked in red).
Key Features:
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German Defenses: Including bunkers, artillery positions, anti-tank ditches, and minefields.
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Beach Obstacles: Such as wooden stakes, iron hedgehogs, Czech hedgehogs, minefields, and anti-landing barriers.
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Landing Zones: Clearly marked with codenames like DOG GREEN, DOG WHITE, etc., designating specific landing areas for U.S. assault teams.
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Nautical Markings: Contour lines for seabed depth, tide lines, current directions, tidal heights—critical information to guide Allied landing craft to shore.
The reverse side of the map includes charts detailing sun and moon phases for the weeks leading up to D-Day, beach slope gradients, tidal stages, and current flows.
The maps are labeled “TOP SECRET – BIGOT”, a special classification used by the Allies for the highest-security information related to Operation Overlord. The “BIGOT” clearance meant access was limited to core personnel only; fewer than ten copies of this type of map existed across the entire force. If even one copy was lost, or any individual familiar with its contents went missing or was killed, the entire operation could be compromised or canceled.
This edition is a high-resolution, full-size digital restoration based on original archival copies held by U.S. historical institutions. Original copies have fetched over $20,000 at auctions. It is not a downsized redrawn tourist souvenir version found on other websites. It is ideal for World War II historians, reenactors, collectors, and also makes a stunning vintage-style wall display. Due to the large format, the maps are shipped in sturdy cardboard tubes to prevent creases and ensure pristine presentation.