*WW1, German, Kaiserliche Marine, Imperial Navy, Black Model 1918 Naval Wound Badge, (Marineverwundetenabzeichen).*
Badge in black, painted sheet iron, on pin.
The Naval Wound Badge, also known as Marineverwundetenabzeichen, was established on June 24, 1918, by Wilhelm II for Imperial Navy personnel. The Kaiserliche Marine Wound Badge came in three colours, black (3rd class, representing Iron), awarded for those wounded once or twice by hostile action; Silver (2nd class) for being wounded three or four times; and Gold (1st class) for five or more times wounded. When a severe wound occurred, such as loss of a limb or eyesight, the silver badge was awarded.
It depicts two crossed swords above an anchor, surrounded by chain. Issued pieces had a seamless, pebbled surface, while privately purchased ones often had an elegant cut-out design.
Naval Wound Badges were only introduced towards the end of World War I, but many wounded sailors didn’t receive their awards. It wasn’t until January 30, 1936, that the Ministry of Interior Affairs declared veterans eligible for the award with documented proof of their wounds. The Model 1918 Naval Wound Badges was presented to veterans until late 1941.
*Condition*
This badge is in very good condition given its age – the underlying metal is showing through in a few points. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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