Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice Imperial German black wound badge (Verwundetenabzeichen in Black), constructed out of a stamped steel magnetic base painted black. The oval badge depicts an embossed profile of an M16 "Stahlhelm" pattern helmet, which is above two crossed broad swords. This then lies on a pebbled field and is surrounded by a laurel leaf and berry wreath which is tied together at the bottom with a bow tie.

The badge is of the "hollow back" type, made of steel. The pin, hinge and catch are all intact and in well-working condition. The paint on this example is quite good, with more than 90% of the front intact. The badge measures 1.75 inches high by 1.5 inches wide.

A very nice example, ready to add to your collection!

The German Wound Badge (Verwundetenabzeichen) was instituted by Kaiser Wilhelm II on 3 March 1918 during the First World War to recognize those wounded in the conflict. It was designed using a World War One style Imperial German Stahlhelm helmet as the main motif. The helmet was set on top two crossed swords against a pebbled background and surrounded by a laurel leaves wreath.

The Wound Badge Awards came in three different types of grades representing the amount , or severity, of wounds received. The first grade, the Black Wound Badge was awarded for 1 to 2 wounds received in combat. The Silver Grade was awarded for 3 to 4 wounds, and finally the Gold Grade for 5 or more wounds, total disability, or death.

The badge was later updated during the 1930s to feature the NSDAP swas, so this is definitely a WWI version.