Original Item: Only One Available: The SS (Schutzstaffel - 'Protection Squadron') was originally formed in 1925, ostensibly to act as a small, loyal bodyguard unit to protect the Führer, Adolf AH. Under the direction of the Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler, the SS grew to be the most ruthless and feared organization of the 20th century. They were the vanguard of NSDAPsm and eventually controlled nearly every function of German life and much of Occupied Europe.
This is a fantastic unissued SS Member's Kampfbinde (Armband), with a red woven wool band, and a multipiece rayon moire material swas (hook cross) sewn onto the front. This armband is more or less identical to the standard armband of the National Socialist German Workers' Party (Nationalsozialistische Deutsche Arbeiterpartei, abbreviated NSDAP), except for the black rayon borders on the edges.
The inner side still features the original RZM tag which is a complete example. The tag has a correct “D” tax code and features a RZM logo as well as the ᛋᛋ Doppelte Siegrune (Double Sig/Victory Rune) insignia. The ink stamped numerical designation of the hersteller (manufacturer) is A4 / 254 and has the lot No. 332714 beneath it. Research indicates that this type of tag was used after 1938, when the move was made to less expensive paper tags.
It is in very good condition, and measures approximately 4 3/4" inches wide. It is sewn together in the back, however there is also a small piece of another SS armband grafted into the seam, so it measures 15 1/2" around one edge, but 16 1/2" around the other. This must have been adapted to fit around a rather large tunic or shirt. There are a few moth nips on the wool, and it does look like it was probably attached to a uniform at some point. There is only very minor age toning to the white circle, and the other colors are still vibrant.
A lovely period modified example of a rare armband, still with the original RZM tag!
Nearly every military, civil, political and paramilitary organization in existence during the Third Reich used armbands. Armbands were worn on military and civilian uniforms and also on civilian clothes, from suit jackets to work clothing. They were used to denote membership in organizations, to indicate a specific role or function of the bearer, and as insignia of rank. Many organizations would change the design of their armbands over time, which added to the variety produced. These were manufactured in countless variations, ranging from simple printed bands to elaborately hand-embroidered pieces of the highest quality. Some NSDAP armbands were worn by all members of large organizations and were made by the millions. Others were intended for use at a specific time and place and were unique. Many types were made in very limited numbers. Some bore metal insignia or special identifiers that indicated the wearer’s rank, unit affiliation, or nationality. Armbands were sometimes but not always marked with ink stamps by the issuing authorities.
