Original Item: Only One Available.This is a very nice original German NSDAP Parteiabzeichen (Party Membership Badge) dating from the Third Reich period. This particular example is the desirable buttonhole-mounted version and is clearly marked on the reverse with the RZM control mark and manufacturer code M1/8, identifying production by Ferdinand Wagner of Pforzheim, Germany. Other documented NSDAP membership badges carrying the same M1/8 marking are likewise attributed to Ferdinand Wagner.

The badge is of the standard circular enameled pattern worn by members of the Nationalsozialistische Deutsche Arbeiterpartei (NSDAP, National Socialist German Workers' Party). The obverse features a textured translucent red enamel outer field with the inscription:

NATIONAL-SOZIALISTISCHE-D.A.P.

The center consists of a white enamel field displaying the black enamel Hakenkreuz (hooked cross). The lettering and dividing borders remain well defined, and the red, white, and black enamel is particularly attractive, showing only minor age and handling wear. Comparable M1/8 membership badges are generally encountered at approximately 23mm in diameter.

The reverse shows considerably more age than the enameled face, with honest surface wear, oxidation, discoloration, and loss of the original finish. Importantly, it retains its original circular buttonhole attachment, rather than the more commonly encountered horizontal pin arrangement. The attachment consists of a raised circular plate with a rectangular opening and projecting tongue, allowing the badge to be secured through the buttonhole of a civilian jacket or lapel. The reverse markings remain readily visible around the attachment, including the circular RZM logo and the clearly stamped:

M1/8

The M1/8 code is associated with Ferdinand Wagner, Pforzheim, a manufacturer licensed to produce political insignia under the RZM system.

The NSDAP originated in Munich as the Deutsche Arbeiterpartei (DAP, German Workers' Party), founded on January 5, 1919. Adolf Hitler joined later that year, and the organization was renamed the NSDAP in 1920. He became party chairman on July 29, 1921. The circular party badge subsequently became the principal small membership insignia worn by NSDAP members.

The Reichszeugmeisterei der NSDAP, usually abbreviated RZM, developed from the party's central equipment organization established in Munich in 1928-1929. Its authority over licensed manufacturers and dealers was greatly expanded in 1934, when it became responsible for regulating procurement and establishing standards for the design, manufacture, and quality of NSDAP uniforms, insignia, and equipment.

A particularly attractive example because the colorful enamel face has survived very well despite the considerably more aged reverse. The combination of the original buttonhole mounting system and the clearly identifiable RZM M1/8 Ferdinand Wagner marking makes this a very representative and displayable example of an original NSDAP membership badge.