WW1 Original Imperial German Wound Badge in Silver
SKU: 846
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Not Marked
Material: Constructed of die struck, hollow steel with frosty silver wash.
Dimensions: 43.9 x 38.5 mm
Weight: 0.2 kg
Condition: Excellent
Price: $195.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: PS30
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description:
This original World War I Imperial German Wound Badge in Silver (Verwundetenabzeichen in Silber) awarded to German soldiers for having been wounded three or four times while serving in action during World War I. The Wound Badge in Silver was introduced on 3 March 1918 by Kaiser Wilhelm II and was awarded to soldiers of the Army, Navy and Air Service who had been wounded in action multiple times.
This original die-struck steel Imperial German Wound Badge in Silver has been left with its original, attractive silver finish. It is in excellent condition with all details sharp and it has a very nice age patina to the surface. The vertical pin on the reverse retains its original hinge, pin and catch which are all fully functional.
The silvered finish has developed an attractive patina of age and clearly displays the fine details of the M1916 Stahlhelm helmet, the folded and curled oak leaves, and the raised border of the badge. The badge is in excellent condition with no major damage, excessive corrosion, or repairs. The badge would be a fantastic acquisition for the serious collector of Imperial German awards.
Historical Significance
The Imperial German Wound Badge was instituted during the last year of World War I to award wounded soldiers. The award was given in three classes of increasing severity of wounding.
- Black – One or two wounds.
- Silver – Three or four wounds, or the loss of a hand, foot, or eye.
- Gold – Five or more wounds, total disability, or other exceptionally severe combat injuries.
The Silver Grade of the Wound Badge was awarded to soldiers who had received three or more wounds, or four or more if a part of the body such as a hand, foot or eye was amputated. Recipients of the Silver Grade Wound Badge had proven themselves on the battlefield on more than one occasion, displaying extraordinary heroism and fortitude in the face of danger.
Specifications
- Country: Imperial Germany
- Period: World War I
- Award: Imperial German Wound Badge (Verwundetenabzeichen)
- Grade: Silver
- Institution Date: March 3, 1918
- Material: Die-struck steel
- Finish: Original silvered finish
- Attachment: Original vertical pin, hinge, and catch
- Design: Award centered on a die cast M1916 Stahlhelm helmet within a raised oval shaped oak leaf wreath tied together at the bottom with a ribbon.
- Dimensions: Approximately 36 x 44 mm
- Condition: Excellent original condition with sharp details, period patina, very good, all parts included and functionally in very good condition.
A highly collectible and historically significant combat award given to soldiers of the German Empire during World War I. Original Imperial Wound Badges in Silver are extremely collectible and considered to be among the most desirable German military decorations, as well as items of interest for collectors of WWI memorabilia and Imperial German militaria.
