Waffen-SS Metal Cap Death's Head Type I

SKU: 50.GOR.01.03.01.02.000

Estimated market value:

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  • Waffen-SS Metal Cap Death's Head Type I (nickel-silver) Obverse
  • Waffen-SS Metal Cap Death's Head Type I (nickel-silver) Reverse
  • Waffen-SS Metal Cap Death's Head Type I (nickel-silver) Obverse
  • Waffen-SS Metal Cap Death's Head Type I (nickel-silver) Reverse

Attributes

  • country
    Germany
  • date of institution
    1925
  • remarks
    Many makers exist; most examples are unmarked.

History


The Totenkopf (skull, literally death's head) as a cap insignia originated in the 18th century Prussian military, being worn by elite Hussar regiments. It was seen as a symbol of death defiance in the line of duty.

From 1925 until 1935, the SS cap was distinguished from the SA cap by the addition of a jawless metal skull insignia.

In 1935, a new SS death’s head insignia was introduced for wear. For the first few months after its introduction, the skull was worn alongside the first pattern eagle insignia, or with an Army pattern eagle. The distinctive SS style eagle was not introduced until 1936.

The badge was used on the apparel of both Officers and NCO/EM (non-commissioned officers/enlisted men) ranks.

The death’s head insignia can be found in a variety of materials; it was first produced from silver and tombac and later versions were manufactured out of silver-plated copper, aluminum, or painted zinc.

Some versions of the insignia have RZM acceptance marks on the reverse, in addition to the year the piece was manufactured, and a manufacturer’s numerical code. The lettering used for these inscriptions appears raised.

The insignia is either mounted on flat sheet prongs or on round pins.

There was a large number of manufacturers of this item and as such, there are many variations.

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Versions

  • Price

    $325 USD

  • Composition

    Silvered Nickel-Silver

  • Inscription

  • Size

    33x29mm

  • Maker

  • Version Remarks

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  • Price

    $225 USD

  • Composition

    Silvered Tombak

  • Inscription

  • Size

    34x32mm

  • Maker

  • Version Remarks

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  • Price

    $300 USD

  • Composition

    Silvered Cupal

  • Inscription

  • Size

    34x29mm

  • Maker

  • Version Remarks

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  • Price

    $275 USD

  • Composition

    Aluminum

  • Inscription

  • Size

    32x28mm

  • Maker

  • Version Remarks

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  • Price

    $225 USD

  • Composition

    Silvered Bronze

  • Inscription

  • Size

    31x28mm

  • Maker

  • Version Remarks

  • View Item
  • Price

    $250 USD

  • Composition

    Silvered Zinc

  • Inscription

  • Size

  • Maker

  • Version Remarks

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