Original German NSDAP (NAZI PARTY) SA/SS Sports Badge In Gold SA-Sportabzeichen by E. Schneider
SKU: 673
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: E. Schneider
Size / Dimensions: Approximately 48 mm x 37 mm
Materials / Construction: Tombac
Condition: Excellent
Price: $150.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: EM75
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This Original German NSDAP SA/SS Sports Badge in Gold (SA-Sportabzeichen) manufactured by E. Schneider, presented in very good to excellent condition. The SA Sports Badge was one of the earliest and most widely awarded Third Reich political awards and was instituted to promote physical fitness and military preparedness among members of the SA (Sturmabteilung), SS, and other paramilitary organizations affiliated with the NSDAP.
Historical Background
The SA-Sportabzeichen was introduced on 28 November 1933 by SA Chief of Staff Ernst Röhm as a national physical fitness award intended to encourage rigorous athletic training, endurance, and combat readiness. Although originally designed for SA members, the award was later expanded to include members of the SS, Hitler Youth, and even civilian participants who successfully completed the demanding series of physical tests.
The badge was awarded in Bronze, Silver, and Gold grades, with the Gold grade typically issued to individuals who had maintained the physical qualification standards over an extended period of years. Because of the strict requirements and longer qualification period, original Gold badges are significantly less common than Bronze examples.
Design & Construction
The badge features an oval oak-leaf wreath encircling a vertical sword, symbolizing martial discipline and readiness. At the top of the wreath sits the German national eagle clutching a swastika, emblematic of the National Socialist state. The detailed oak leaves and finely executed eagle reflect the high level of craftsmanship typical of period German award production.
The reverse of the badge is maker marked “E. Schneider”, indicating manufacture by Ernst Schneider of Lüdenscheid, one of the known Third Reich badge and medal producers.
Specifications
- Award: SA Sports Badge (SA-Sportabzeichen)
- Organization: NSDAP / SA / SS
- Grade: Gold
- Manufacturer: E. Schneider, Lüdenscheid
- Material: Tombac with gold finish
- Attachment: Vertical pinback with functional hinge and catch
- Dimensions: Approximately 48 mm x 37 mm
- Condition: Very good to excellent original condition with strong detail and attractive patina
Collector Notes
The SA-Sportabzeichen remains one of the most historically significant Third Reich athletic awards and is highly sought after by collectors of NSDAP political awards, SA/SS memorabilia, and German WWII decorations. Maker-marked examples such as those produced by E. Schneider are particularly desirable due to their identifiable manufacturing provenance.
This Gold Grade example represents a premium display piece and an important artifact illustrating the regime’s emphasis on physical conditioning and paramilitary training during the early years of the Third Reich.
