Original Item. Only One Available. This is a German WWII Silver Grade Panzer Assault Badge, or Panzerkampfabzeichen in Silber, bearing the distinctive HA maker's mark associated with Hermann Aurich of Dresden. The badge has a solid-backed construction, apparently in silvered zinc alloy, and retains its original-style vertical pin attachment.

The obverse depicts a German Panzer IV-type tank advancing across uneven terrain, surrounded by an oval wreath of oak leaves and acorns tied at the base. Above the tank is the Heer national eagle clutching a swas. The reverse is mostly plain, with a long round-wire pin mounted on a circular upper hinge assembly and secured by a lower wire catch. Immediately above the catch is the impressed, stylized HA manufacturer's monogram.

The badge shows considerable age and surface deterioration, with extensive loss of its silvered finish and an overall dull gray appearance. Dark oxidation spotting and areas of pitting are particularly pronounced across the reverse, with additional discoloration and surface wear throughout the obverse. Despite this deterioration, the tank, eagle, and surrounding wreath remain clearly recognizable, although some finer details have softened. The pin, hinge, and catch are all present.

Historical Context

The Panzer Assault Badge was instituted on December 20, 1939, by Generaloberst Walther von Brauchitsch, Commander-in-Chief of the German Army. Originally designated the Panzerkampfwagenabzeichen, it was established following the German invasion of Poland to recognize the combat achievements of personnel serving in armored formations. The decoration became one of the principal combat distinctions awarded to members of the German Panzertruppe during WWII.

Under the original regulations, the Silver Grade was awarded to officers, NCOs, and enlisted personnel who had actively participated in at least three combat engagements on three separate days, beginning January 1, 1940. Qualifying personnel included tank commanders, drivers, gunners, and radio operators serving aboard combat tanks or armored command vehicles. The award required direct participation in combat and was authorized by the commanders of Panzer divisions. Recipients wore the badge on the left breast of the uniform.

The design was the work of Wilhelm Ernst Peekhaus, a Berlin-based graphic artist responsible for several German military decorations of the period. On June 1, 1940, a Bronze Grade was introduced for qualifying personnel of the motorized infantry, motorcycle infantry, and armored reconnaissance units serving within Panzer formations. The distinction between the two grades primarily reflected the recipient's military role and branch of service.

As the war progressed, the award regulations were expanded to include certain supporting personnel operating under direct enemy fire. Amendments introduced during late 1942 and early 1943 extended eligibility under specified conditions to motorcycle dispatch riders, armored vehicle repair personnel, and members of Panzer signals units. These changes recognized the combat responsibilities of personnel supporting armored operations near the front line.

On June 22, 1943, higher grades of the Panzer Assault Badge were instituted to recognize prolonged combat participation. These incorporated the numbers 25, 50, 75, and 100, indicating the number of qualifying combat engagements credited to the recipient. The original unnumbered Silver Grade remained in use through the end of the war.