WWII German U Boat War Badge Late War Type
Item #: WR31
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This is a German World War II Submarine War badge (U-Boot-Kriegsabzeichen) awarded to members of U-boats. This badge was originally instituted during World War I on 16 February, 1918. It was presented to U-boot crewmen who completed three war patrols. The badge was reinstituted on 13 October, 1939 during the beginning of World War II. Differences between the First and Second War badges were: the Imperial crown from WWI was replaced by a German Eagle above a swastika and a more modern submarine facing to the left was used. The early WWII badges were made of bronze, while the later war badges were made of zinc and had a gilt, or gold wash. During WWII submariners had to complete two war patrols to be eligible for the badge. That may not sound like much, but these patrols often lasted for months. As the war progressed submarine detection technology advanced, and fewer and fewer submarines returned from these patrols. They could also be presented to individuals who were wounded on their first patrol, or killed. These badges are very collectible, as it is estimated that 8 out of 10 German U-boat sailors perished at sea. This badge is the late war zinc medal. All of the gilt wash is gone. there are a couple of small areas where the zinc has aged spots, mainly on the front section of the submarine. The detail is still remarkably clear and sharp. There is no back mark on this one. The pin and catch are both present for duty and strangley enough they retain all the gilt. This is a very nice example of a Kreigsmarine U-boat war badge. If you collect World War II German Navy badges you should take a hard look at this one.
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