The Velsen coal mine was sunk in 1899 and the Gustav II shaft was developed between 1913 and 1917. In 1965 the mine was amalgamated into the Warndt complex which finally closed in 2005 with this shaft then being partially filled. The surviving surface buildings and headgear of the Gustav II shaft are considered a "top-class ensemble" of the Saarland mining industry and are listed structures. Inside the winding house is preserved this original steam winding engine made at the Dingler works.