~ WW2 German Silver Panzer Assault Badge By Frank And Reif Of Stuttgart ~
The zinc badge has a steel pin clasp, brass hook and the makers details are embossed to the reverse.
~ Panzer Badge ~
The Panzer Badge (German: Panzerkampfabzeichen) was a World War II military decoration of Nazi Germany awarded to troops in armoured divisions. Before 1 June 1940 it was known as the Panzerkampfwagenabzeichen.
Introduced on 20 December 1939, the Panzer Badge was authorized for award to tank crews who had actively participated in three armoured assaults on different days.
On 1 June 1940 a bronze version was created for panzer grenadier units equipped with armoured vehicles, as well as other infantry, armoured reconnaissance, armoured signals and medical units serving with Panzer divisions. From 31 December 1942 armoured unit repair teams could receive the silver badge for repairing tanks in combat conditions on three different days.
In June 1943 additional Tank Badges were instituted in both silver and bronze to reward participation in 25, 50, 75 and 100 armoured actions. The number of engagements required for these higher-level badges could be reduced for those with previous long and continuous frontline service or who had received disabling wounds. Only one badge, the highest level received, could be worn.
The authorisation of these badges was usually done at regimental or divisional level.
The badge is oval and consists of a three-quarters front image of a Panzer IV tank, surrounded by an oak wreath and surmounted by the Wehrmacht eagle and swastika. The badge for tank crews is silver in colour, with a bronze finish version for other eligible combatants serving with armoured divisions.
It was worn on the left side of the tunic.
~ Condition ~
The badge is in good order, the clasp works well.
~ Dimensions ~
The badge measures 42 mm wide by 61 mm tall.
#11590
