Wound badges were issued in recognition of injuries received while in combat duty. The badge was issued in three different classes during WWII; Black, Silver and Gold. The construction of the badge varies depending on the class.

The black wound badge is generally hollowed back. The Silver and Gold versions have a solid back.

The actual WWII German wound badge does not come apart. It is constructed of a single piece. The illustration below provides an exploded view of the different components that make the badge.

WOUND BADGE MARKINGS
The German military complex during WWII was very concerned about the quality of their equipment. From the weapons right down to the medals and awards. In the early days of the Third Reich many badges were designed, manufactured and issued without any standardize form of quality control.

In 1941 it was decided to create the Administration of German Orders Manufacturers ( deutschen Ordenhersteller), known as the LDO. Its main purpose was to control the production of medals and orders. The LDO was directed by the Fuhrer's Chancellery.

	All wound badges comes with a vertical pin. A hinge is placed at the top of the badge. A catch is placed in the bottom section. Both pieces are soldered in place. Some of the badges are marked. The manufacturing markings can be found in the pin or the back portion of the badge.
The back of the silver wound badge is solid in construction.		The back of the gold wound badge is solid in construction.