Cased Wound Badge in Gold 1939
The wound badge was originally established on March 3rd 1918 by King Wilhelm II to recognise the sacrifice of those wounded during WWI. The badge was instituted in three classes, of black, silver and gold with the class bestowed reflecting the number or severity of the wounds received. On May 22nd 1939 Adolf Hitler re-instituted a slightly modified version of the wound badge with the addition of a swastika to the WWI pattern badge for award to German volunteers who had been wounded supporting. With the outbreak of WWII on September 1st 1939 Hitler once again re-instituted another slightly modified version of the wound badge by altering the WWI pattern helmet on the badge to the newly designed M35 style helmet. The gold wound badge was the highest of the three classes and was awarded for five or more wounds, or if the individual was totally disabled. It was also awarded posthumously if the individual was killed in battle.
The badge is made of die struck Tombak, solid backed badge with a gilt finish. Plain reverse with integral hinge, attachment pin and soldered catch all intact. Reverse is maker marked stamped "30" for "HauptmĂĽnzamt Wien". The badge comes with original red cardstock case with complete insert. The case is "LDO" marked inside the fold open top lid. Both the case and badge are in good condition and shows only light signs of age / use.
Highest grade wound badge in very good condition, also maker marked and complete with case!!
395.00€
Cased Wound Badge in Gold 1939
[AB21049]
