WWII GERMAN BADGE - CLOSE COMBAT BRONZE -
This is a German WWII Close Combat clasp. This award was instituted on November 25th, 1942. There were three grades issued:
- Bronze - 15 days of unsupported close combat or 10 days in case of wound
- Silver - 30 days of unsupported close combat or 20 days in case of wound
- Gold (gilt) - 50 days of unsupported close combat or 40 days in case of wound
This clasp was worn on the left breast of the
tunic,
above the ribbons. This sample is nicely marked with raised lettering.
The shape of the badge is long and thin. The center is a square that has a single, long laurel leaves shooting out to
the left and the right. Each leaf then splits into three at the tip. To the top and bottom of the single leaf there
is what appears to be part of a square structure with seevral grooves cut into the surface and facing the away from the
center.
The center portion of the badge has a crossed bayonet and stick grenade. A small eagle clutiching a swastika sits
on top of both pieces. The background is a completly separate piece. A black square that provides a 3-D look to
the center of the badge.
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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.
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.
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The "Military minute" is a series of instructional videos created by MilitaryItems.com for the purpose of
providing basic information about military collectibles. The idea is to expose people to the exciting
world of military collectibles.
The video presentation coupled with detailed photographs and written information, including a military
collectible's price guide, and anatomical breakdown of each piece enhances the visitor's experience.
Whether you are a long time collector, a beginner or simply have an interest in the history and value of
each collectible, we hope that you find the information presented here useful.
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PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
The physical properties of a badge are a very important aspect to consider when determining
the authenticity of a badge. The information provided here covers the badge shown on this
page. It is important to note that there are variations among manufacturers.
This award is currently being reproduced.
It is becoming more difficult to be able to tell the fake ones from the real ones because the quality
of the reproductions is improving. The collector must become familiarized with the construction style
and materials employed in the manufacturing of this badge. Attention to the details is critical in
order to be able to determine the authenticity of the badge.
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.
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