*WW2, German, Kriegsmarine, Minesweeper Badge, by Rudolf Kaneth*
Kriegsmarine, Minesweeper Badge. ‘Kriegsabzeichen Fur Minensuch’. Maker marked on reverse R.K. by Rudolf Kaneth. The front design consists of an oval oak leaf wreath, topped by a Wehrmacht eagle clutching a mobile swastika, with a central depiction of an exploding mine on top of detailed waves.
The Minesweeper War Badge, established on August 31, 1941, by Kriegsmarine leader Grossadmiral Erich Raeder, aimed to recognize the bravery and expertise of German Navy sailors serving on minesweeper vessels during World War II. These sailors faced constant danger from mines, submarines, and airplanes. The badge, designed by Otto Placzek, depicts an exploding sea mine within a wreath, topped with the German national eagle and swastika emblem. It was crafted in tombak and zinc, with later versions predominantly being of the zinc type. Leaders of minesweeper boats, patrol boats, and special units, as well as superior Kriegsmarine commands, could order the badge. To qualify, sailors had to fulfill various criteria, including making operational sorties, displaying exemplary conduct, participating in dangerous missions, serving on escort duty, or being on a ship sunk by enemy action, with posthumous awards possible.
*Condition*
In sound, used condition. Badge has restored pin and catch fixing to the reverse. Retains remnants of the gilt wash finish. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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