Vaterländischer Hilfsdienst Armband 1916-19

Product Description: This Vaterländischer Hilfsdienst Armband 1916-19 is a rare piece from the first World War. The Vaterländischer Hilfsdienst was an civil organization instituted by law in December, 1916. This law stated that all German men between the ages of 17 and 59 were obligated to serve the German Reich, if not as soldiers, than in civil roles or as workers within the German war economy, for the duration of the war. This armband is made of thin cotton fabric in black, white and red, the colors of the German Reich at that time. These fabric pieces have been assembled with straight machine stitching, and the ends are joined in back. The central white stripe of the armband is printed with the wording “Vaterländischer Hilfsdienst” in German script. The condition of this Vaterländischer Hilfsdienst Armband 1916-19 is excellent, with typical age toning and a few areas of darker staining, but no tears or holes. There is some slight fading to the fabric, as one would expect after more than a century. It displays very well.

Historical Description: 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 Nazi 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.

We are the leading team of military antique specialists. We have specialized in military antiques for over 25 years.

Epic Artifacts offers free evaluations and the highest prices available for your collectibles.

We purchase single items, entire collections, or family estates.

Click the link here to learn more: Free Evaluation or Inquiries 

or feel free to email us directly: info@epicartifacts.com