Original Item: Only One Available: The SS (Schutzstaffel - 'Protection Squadron') was originally formed in 1925, ostensibly to act as a small, loyal bodyguard unit to protect the Führer, Adolf H.. Under the direction of the Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler, the SS grew to be the most ruthless and feared organizations of the 20th century. They were the vanguard of the NSDAP and eventually controlled many functions of German life and much of Occupied Europe.

This is a very good service used condition SS member's Kampfbinde (Armband), with a red woven wool band, and a multipiece rayon moiré material swas (hook cross) sewn onto the front. This armband is more or less identical to the standard armband of the National Socialist German Workers' Party (Nationalsozialistische Deutsche Arbeiterpartei, abbreviated NSDAP), except for the black rayon borders on the edges.

The inner side still features the original RZM tag which is a complete example, with the glue retained and matured to a pleasing color. The tag has a correct “D” tax code and features a RZM logo as well as the ᛋᛋ Doppelte Siegrune (Double Sig/Victory Rune) insignia. The ink stamped numerical designation of the Hersteller (manufacturer) is A4 / 275 and has the lot B № 049330 beneath it. Research indicates that this type of tag was used after 1938, when the move was made to less expensive paper tags.

The armband measures approximately 17" x 4 5/8", and is joined by a sewn rear seam. It shows age toning and stains, particularly noticeable on the white circle, and there is some staining and moth damage to the red wool band as well. The stitching in the back is also beginning to separate at one end, and there is some wear at the edges consistent with use.

This German WWII SS member’s armband retains its red wool body, multi-piece rayon moiré emblem, black edge borders, rear seam, and complete RZM paper tag. The tag remains legible with manufacturer code and lot number, while the armband shows age toning, staining, scattered moth damage, edge wear, and partial separation of the rear stitching. Despite these condition issues, it remains a substantially complete and clearly marked example with its original identification label still attached.

Nearly every military, civil, political and paramilitary organization in existence during the Third Reich used armbands. Armbands were worn on military and civilian uniforms and also on civilian clothes, from suit jackets to work clothing. They were used to denote membership in organizations, to indicate a specific role or function of the bearer, and as insignia of rank. Many organizations would change the design of their armbands over time, which added to the variety produced. These were manufactured in countless variations, ranging from simple printed bands to elaborately hand-embroidered pieces of the highest quality. Some NSDAP armbands were worn by all members of large organizations and were made by the millions. Others were intended for use at a specific time and place and were unique. Many types were made in very limited numbers. Some bore metal insignia or special identifiers that indicated the wearer’s rank, unit affiliation, or nationality. Armbands were sometimes but not always marked with ink stamps by the issuing authorities.