Original Item. Only One Available. This is an original German NSDAP Party Membership Badge, or Parteiabzeichen, bearing the RZM manufacturer code M1/34, assigned to Karl Wurster of Markneukirchen, Saxony. This pattern of membership badge was produced during the pre-WWII and WWII years and was worn by members of the National Socialist German Workers' Party.

The circular badge is constructed from silver-colored base metal with multicolored enamel work. The obverse displays a translucent red, finely textured outer border bearing the raised inscription NATIONAL-SOZIALISTISCHE D.A.P., surrounding a white enamel field with a central black canted swas. emblem. The reverse retains its horizontal wire pin and catch assembly, together with the circular RZM trademark and raised M1/34 manufacturer designation.

The badge remains in good overall condition, displaying considerable age-related patination and surface wear. The red enamel retains its strong coloration, while the white central field shows minor discoloration and handling marks. More noticeable wear affects the black enamel emblem, with localized chipping, surface deterioration, and small areas of greenish corrosion staining. The silver-colored finish has worn considerably, particularly on the reverse, where oxidation and dark, uneven patination are present. The original-style pin and catch assembly remain in place, and the manufacturer's markings are legible.

Historical Context

The Nationalsozialistische Deutsche Arbeiterpartei (NSDAP), or National Socialist German Workers' Party, originated as the Deutsche Arbeiterpartei (DAP), founded in Munich in January 1919. The organization adopted its new name in 1920, developing its political identity around radical German nationalism, antisemitism, and opposition to the Weimar Republic. Following the failed Munich Putsch of November 1923 and the subsequent prohibition of the party, the NSDAP was reestablished under AH in February 1925.

The Parteiabzeichen became the standard identifying insignia of ordinary NSDAP membership. Members generally wore the small circular badge on the left lapel of civilian clothing, while its use with certain party uniforms was also regulated. The red, white, and black design incorporated the official party colors and emblem, making membership immediately recognizable.

Following the NSDAP's rise to power in January 1933, the badge acquired greater political and social importance. Party membership expanded substantially as the regime consolidated its control over Germany's government, administration, and public institutions. The membership badge became a familiar feature of everyday civilian life, identifying individuals who belonged to the ruling political organization.

Production of NSDAP insignia was regulated through the Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM), the party's central equipment and procurement organization. Established during the late 1920s and subsequently expanded, the RZM oversaw the manufacture and distribution of officially approved party uniforms, insignia, and equipment. Its responsibilities included licensing manufacturers, establishing production specifications, and maintaining uniform standards across the party's growing network of suppliers.

By the mid-1930s, official membership badges were being manufactured under the RZM licensing system. Approved manufacturers received identifying codes, which were applied to their products. The M1 classification designated metal badges, while the number following the slash identified the individual manufacturer. These markings provide useful information about the production of NSDAP insignia, although they generally do not establish an exact manufacturing date.

The standard NSDAP membership badge remained in use throughout the Third Reich until the party's dissolution in 1945. Its distinctive design and widespread distribution made it one of the most recognizable political insignia of the period.