*German, WW2, Panzer Assault Badge – Panzerkampfabzeichen, Bronze Version, Hollow Back*
Non-maker-marked example that shows period characteristics – such as the typically-shaped oval crimped catch-set-up usually seen on badges by ‘Wilhelm Deumer of Lüdenscheid. It has lost its bronze-toned finish (can be seen on the back): the piece is showing nice detail.
The Panzer Badge (Panzerkampfabzeichen) was a military decoration in World War II awarded to troops serving in armored divisions. Introduced on December 20, 1939, it aimed to honor the achievements of Panzer personnel involved in armored assaults. Designed by Wilhelm Ernst Peekhaus in Berlin, it was instituted by order of Generaloberst Walther von Brauchitsch. Its obverse features a border of oak leaves tied at the base, with a Heer-style national eagle atop the wreath holding a mobile swastika. In the center, a Panzerkampfwagen IV is depicted on grassy ground, with its left tank track extending over the edge of the badge.
The badge was initially authorized for officers and enlisted men attached to armored units from January 1, 1940. Eligible positions included tank commander, tank driver, tank gunner, or tank radioman. To qualify for this award, crewmembers had to serve in these positions for a minimum of three tank engagements on three different days. The Panzer division commander was responsible for authorizing the award, which was issued with an accompanying award document.
Initially, the badge was only available in a silver version. However, on June 1, 1940, a bronze version was introduced for members of Panzer-Grenadier regiments and medical personnel who rode into combat in armored vehicles to attend to wounded soldiers. Personnel assigned to armored cars were also eligible for the bronze award. The Panzerkampfabzeichen was worn on the left breast of the recipient’s uniform.
In June 1943, it was recognized that higher variants of the award were necessary to represent the extended and continuous service of German tankers. Consequently, numbered versions of the Tank Combat Badge were authorized in “25,” “50,” “75,” and “100” variants. These badges featured the same basic design with small numbered plaques indicating the level of the award.
*Condition*
Good used condition. Gilt worn off. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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