History

The DAF (Deutsche Arbeitsfront = German Labour Front) was the result of a forced association of all German trade unions, established on May 10, 1933. Its purpose was the coordination and control of all aspects of German labour to serve the interests of the NSDAP. The DAF leader was Reichsleiter Robert Ley.

The NSBO (Nationalsozialistische Betriebszellenorganisation = National Socialist Factory Cell Organisation) was a labour union organisation founded by NSDAP members in 1928. It started out local and mainly Berlin-based, but eventually grew into a nationwide organisation by 1931. However, the DAF was seen as better capable to carry out the will of the NSDAP leadership. This resulted in the decline of the NSBO after the DAF’s establishment in 1933 and concluded in the eventual absorption of the NSBO into the DAF by 1935.

The NSBO Enlisted Buckle first appeared in 1933 and was worn by non-leader ranks. Its introduction was unofficial and as such many design variations exist. However, in general the “official” design is that of a rectangular and smooth buckle measuring 63x47, made of brass, with a silvered centrepiece. The silver colour would often be worn off after some time. The buckle was worn on a 45mm black leather belt strap.

The centrepiece features an outer circle with rope-like inner and outer borders, with an open oak leaf wreath in between superimposed over a ribbed pattern. The centre dome features the NSBO emblem, with the edges often slightly overlapping the outer circle.

Most NSBO buckles are not stamped on the reverse, making those with manufacturer’s marks a rare exception.