Original Item: One-of-a-kind. This is a genuine German WWII Waffen SS Erkennungsmarke (identity disc or Dog Tag) half, used to identify soldiers in the field. These were made of plated steel, aluminum, or zinc, and were designed so that if a soldier died, the bottom half of the tag would be broken off, while the other half remained with their body. This is what looks to be the top half, and we have no way of knowing whether it simply broke at some point, or whether the soldier it was issued to was killed in action.

It is marked on the front with the following regimental designation, which still easy to read:-

The back is also marked with a large Waffen SS stamping. This indicates the soldier (No. 4704) was a member of the 2. Kompanie Panzerjäger Ersatz Abteilung, or the 2nd Company of Anti-Tank Replacement Detachment of the Waffen SS. Often referred to as "Tank Destroyers", these were specific anti-tank units and guns within Panzer units dedicated to anti-armor warfare.

Condition of the half disc is very good, showing some light oxidation on both sides, and probably some dried dirt as well. There is no real pitting or other major damage. It is non magnetic, and looks to be made from zinc or some similar metal.

Ready to research and display!