WWII GERMAN BADGE - ARMY BRONZE TANK -
Tank warfare was started in the battlefields of WWI, when lumbering metal giants ran about bringing fear
to the hearts of the enemy combatants that saw them for the first time. But tanks back then were
clumsy, they broke down fairly often and were not very effective. The crewman were exposed to
hazardous conditions breathing toxic fumes.
WWII witnessed a complete revolution in tank warfare. With Hitler's implementation of the Blitzkrieg
strategy, tanks were catapulted center front in combat. Much more sophisticated machines were developed
during this period. They were fast, well armored, maneuverable and well armed.
With the new tanks came a new breed of specialized soldier. The military command decided to
create a badge to recognize the hard work and dedication put forth by tank crewmen.
|
The Tank badge was created on June 1st 1940. The requirements for earning this award were very much like
those established for the Silver Tank badge,
except that this award was allotted for non-tank personnel such as those manning armored vehicles,
self propelled guns, etc. Also eligible for this award were medical personnel who accompanied
the units to battle.
The design of the badge consists of an oval shape wreath with an eagle placed in the upper portion and
the ends of the wreath truncating into a small square in the lower section. The image of a tank is
displayed inside the wreath. Part of the inner track of the tank extends a little beyond the perimeter
set by the wreath.
The eagle has its wings retracted with the head facing to the right. The plumeage has very good
detailing. It is clutching a swastika. A portion of the body extends upwardly beyond the wreath. Most of
the body of the tank, including the turret and gun, are clearly visible. The thread and other components
show very clear definition.
|
The back of the badge is flat. Notice that this badge is not marked with the manufacturer's
logo. Some
badges had markings while others did not.
|
This page is a recognition and identification guide for WWII German badges and awards. Multiple
detailed photos of a specific sample are provided. Descriptions point out clearly defined points
that should be noted. A
vertical pin , wire type, is hinged at the top and
has a catch in the opposite side. The award was worn on the lower left breast of the uniform by running
the pin through a set of loops (Two or more) that were sewn to the tunic.
One of the most commonly asked questions is "How much is my WWII German badge worth?". A price
guide is included here to address this question. The value of the badges and awards is reviewed
over a period of several years. A trend can be observed. The present worth of the German
badges in the collector's market is illustrated.
This service is provided free of charge to the visitor/enthusiast courtesy of
MilitaryItems.com,
a company dedicated to the preservation of military history and to providing quality military
antiques and collectibles to museums, institutions and the general public.
|
|
The badge was issued in a small paper envelope along with a document that was signed by the
unit's commander.
If you have an interest is seeing other badges and awards of the Third Reich, you can do so by going
to our WWII German Badges and Awards
identification guide. Where we cover Heer (Army), Navy (Kriegsmarine) and
Air Force (Luftwaffe) items.
GERMAN TANK BADGE VARIATIONS
The German Army Tank badge was produced by several manufacturers and in
different configurations. The following section displays some of the different types
that were manufactured.
|
Swat the Shopping Bug to view related military items!
