Tombak First Pattern S Boat Badge – Schwerin

Product Description: This Tombak First Pattern S Boat Badge is a desirable award. This is a tough badge to find in Tombak. This example is definitely field worn, and shows evidence of this in the form of honest wear. The wreath still retains traces of the original gilded finish in the recesses of the design, and the boat retains most of its original black finish in the recesses as well. The exposed bare Tombak has taken on a slight, even age patina. The reverse of this Tombak First Pattern S Boat Badge shows age toning, and is nicely maker marked “Schwerin Berlin 68” in raised lettering. The hardware setup is textbook for this maker, with a horizontal pin as well as a hook at the top. The hardware is functional, with no sign of repair, and features a block hinge, a banjo pin, and a sheet metal “C” catch. This rare badge has great character and an appealing, original look. It remains in excellent condition.

Historical Description: The S-Boat Badge (Schnellbootkriegsabzeichen) was instituted on May 30, 1941, by Kriegsmarine leader Grossadmiral Erich Raeder. The purpose of this badge was to recognize the achievements and experience of the crews of the fast attack boats, who by that stage of the war had already sunk many British warships and merchant vessels. The design of the badge featured a German S-Boat in action, surrounded by a wreath and surmounted by a German national eagle and swastika emblem. To earn this badge, members of fast attack boat crews had to display exceptional leadership, participate in at least 12 combat missions, or participate in an exceptionally successful mission. The S-Boat Badge could also be awarded to sailors who had earned another decoration on a mission. It was also posthumously awarded to sailors killed in action. In 1943, a new type of this badge was introduced which featured a larger, newer model S-Boat and a larger German eagle.

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