“You Are Leaving the American Sector” Sign – Enamel Metal Reproduction

Bring a Cold War icon to your wall.
This vitreous-enamel metal plaque recreates the multilingual checkpoint notice made famous at Berlin’s Checkpoint Charlie and other crossings between Allied and Soviet zones. The sign—printed in English, Russian, French, and German—warned travelers they were leaving the American sector, and it became one of the most photographed symbols of divided Berlin from the late 1940s until the Wall fell in 1989.

Why you’ll love it

• Authentic look & typography based on the historic checkpoint boards

• Four languages exactly as seen on the originals

• Durable enamel-on-steel with raised, glossy lettering

• Ready to hang: pre-drilled corner holes

• Conversation piece for office, den, or study

The story

After WWII, Berlin was split into four occupation sectors. At the boundaries—especially at Friedrichstraße/Checkpoint Charlie—the U.S. Army posted large multilingual boards reading “YOU ARE LEAVING THE AMERICAN SECTOR.” Originals were big painted boards or sheet-metal panels mounted roadside. This plaque scales that design to a displayable size while preserving the stark, utilitarian style that defined the era.

Details

• Material: enamel-coated steel with raised lettering

• Finish: glossy white field, black border & text; “US ARMY” credit in corner

• Size: 20cm X 30cm (7.87" x 11.81")

• Mounting: 4 corner holes (hardware not included)

• Indoor/outdoor: suitable for covered outdoor use; avoid harsh chemicals