Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very attractive original German WWII Deutsches Reichssportabzeichen variant manufactured by Wernstein of Jena. The two-tone finish identifies this example as the considerably more specialized Versehrtensportabzeichen, or Sports Badge for Disabled Persons. It features a gilded oak leaf wreath and lower emblem surrounding the silvered DRL monogram, exactly matching the distinctive finish prescribed for this wartime award.

The badge follows the classic openwork Reich Sports Badge design, with the ornate intertwined letters DRL, representing Deutscher Reichsbund für Leibesübungen (German Reich Federation for Physical Exercise), surrounded by a vertically oval oak leaf wreath. At the bottom is the characteristic ribbon bow surmounted by a swas. The standard DRL pattern developed from the earlier German sports badge tradition, and the DRL initials began appearing on the badge during the mid-1930s. In 1937, the award received official status as a state decoration under the name Deutsche Reichsauszeichnung für Leibesübungen.

What makes this particular example especially interesting is its silver and gold combination. On November 18, 1942, a fourth class of the Reich Sports Badge was established for war-disabled and other physically disabled men. Period regulations specifically described the Versehrtensportabzeichen as an award in silver with a gold wreath. Candidates were still required to demonstrate five different forms of physical proficiency, but the testing requirements were adapted according to the nature and extent of the individual's disability.
The reverse is clearly marked:

D.R.G.M. 35269

and:

WERNSTEIN JENA

The abbreviation D.R.G.M. stands for Deutsches Reichsgebrauchsmuster, indicating a registered German utility design. The number 35269 is well documented on DRL Sports Badges of this pattern, including examples manufactured by Wernstein. The Wernstein Jena marking and D.R.G.M. number are both sharply visible on this example. A museum-held example attributed to Hermann Wernstein likewise carries the markings D.R.G.M. 35269 / WERNSTEIN JENA.

The reverse retains its vertical pinback assembly with a broad flat pin, barrel-style hinge, and wire catch. All major attachment components are present. The badge is beautifully preserved. The openwork DRL design remains well defined, and there is no major deformation visible.