WW2 WW2 German SS Panzer Abwehr Abteilung Erkennungsmarke 196 Infanterie Division, Identification Tag (Original)
SKU: GERMAN SS PANZER TAG NUMBER 144 IDENTIFACATION TAG
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: N/A
Date Issued: Early 1941
Model: N/A
Size / Dimensions: approximately 70mm x 50mm
Materials / Construction: Aluminium
Condition: Very Good
Price: $300.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: 25
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This Authentic German Panzer Waffen-SS Erkennungsmarke (identity tag) issued to a soldier from the Panzerabwehr-Abteilung of the 196. Infanterie-Division. These tags were used for identification of soldiers, particularly in the event of injury or death. The tag number is 144 was taken in 1945 by an American Army Soldier when this SS division surrendered in Belgium.
History
During World War II, German soldiers were issued identification tags (commonly called Erkennungsmarken), which served as essential tools for identifying the wounded or dead on the battlefield. Members of the Waffen-SS Panzer divisions — the armored elite of Nazi Germany’s paramilitary SS forces — carried distinct versions of these tags, reflecting their unique units and roles.
Design & Structure:
- Material: Typically made of zinc or aluminum.
- Shape: Oval, measuring approximately 70mm x 50mm.
- Perforation: Each tag was stamped with a horizontal perforation line across the center, enabling it to be broken in half. One half remained with the body, and the other was collected for record-keeping.
- Holes: Usually had three holes — one at each end of the break line for a cord or chain, and a third hole for securing to uniforms or gear.
Stamping Information:
Waffen-SS Panzer identification tags were hand- or machine-stamped with key data, including:
- Unit Designation: For example, "SS-Pz.Rgt.1" (SS Panzer Regiment 1).
- Soldier's Personal Number: Unique to the individual and often accompanied by a blood type (e.g., "O", "A").
- SS Affiliation Markings: The double "SS" runes were often included, signifying the soldier’s alignment with the SS.
- Additional Codes: Occasionally included field post numbers (Feldpostnummer), company (Kompanie) designation, or training unit details.
