*WW1, German, Kaiserliche Marine, Imperial Navy, Gold Model 1918 Naval Wound Badge, (Marineverwundetenabzeichen).*
This is a rare find, one piece stamped, gold wound badge made of gilted brass and retaining much of the original patina. Gold badges are very rare, as they were awarded to those who had been wounded 5 or more times. In WW1 the Imperial German Navy saw only one major sea battle, many U-Boat personnel that saw action, were killed rather than wounded, when their U-boats sunk.
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 rare badge is in excellent condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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