Blockade Runner Badge, by C. Schwerin (in tombac)
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 01.GTR.0908.101.03.000
Estimated market value:
Estimated market value:
A textbook example of a fine early quality Blockade Runner badge (Blockadebrecherabzeichen); a circular patinated and silvered tombac badge; the obverse with a large ship breaking through waves with a large eagle clutching a swastika on its stern, surrounded by a border of silvered chains being broken by the ship near the bottom; the reverse plain, with a vertical banjo style pinback with a barrel hinge and a flat wire catch; marked “Fec. Otto Placzek, Berlin” and “Ausf. Schwerin, Berlin” on the reverse; measuring 48.84 mm in diameter; weighing 36.8 grams; better than extremely fine condition.
The Blockade Runner Badge was instituted by Adolf Hitler on April 1, 1941, and was conferred upon sailors of merchant ships who successfully brought their vessels through the enemy blockade and safely into a friendly port. Under special circumstances, it could also be awarded to sailors of ships that were sunk by the enemy. The badge recognised the bravery of sailors and the crucial role they played in strengthening Germany’s economic ability to wage war.
Initially, the badge was awarded as a civil decoration only, but as of December 5, 1942 soldiers of the Kriegsmarine were also eligible.
The badge was designed by Otto Placzeck in Berlin. The eagle is often silvered, while the chain and ship are usually blackened.
Badges by Schwerin are marked “Fec. Otto Placzek Berlin” with “Ausf. Schwerin Berlin” underneath. Badges are made of tombac or zinc.
Comments
Sign in to comment and reply.
COMMUNITY
ACCOUNT
Scroll Top
