Bagger 1473

Excavator 1473, bearing the model designation SRs 1500[1], is a bucket-wheel excavator built in 1964–65 by VEB Schwermaschinenbau Lauchhammerwerk; it remained in operation in the Lusatian lignite mining district until 2002. Following its decommissioning, the excavator was relocated to Hörlitz in 2003 to be preserved as a testament to mining history. Due to its distinctive blue color scheme, the excavator is also known as the "Blue Wonder." In 2019, it was officially granted heritage status; however, plans for its scrapping—along with the attendant debates—persist, leaving its future uncertain.