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4th Pattern Grossdeutschland Cuff Title

Condition: Near Mint

Pattern: 4th

SKU: JW4878 Category: Heer Cloth & Insignia Tags heer, insignia

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Product Description: This 4th Pattern Grossdeutschland Cuff Title is an outstanding, unissued example. This pattern of cuff title was worn by members of the elite German Army unit Panzergrenadier-Division Grossdeutschland. This was the fourth pattern of this cuff title, and was issued to enlisted ranks and NCOs. The body of this attractive cuff title is made of a textbook finely woven black wool badge cloth fabric. The center of the front of the armband is emblazoned with the unit designation “Grossdeutschland,” in cursive script. This embroidery is perfectly executed in cotton thread. The upper and lower edges of the cuff title are trimmed with correct “Russia braid” soutache. The reverse of the cuff title shows neatly folded and stitched edges on the long sides. The bobbin thread of the embroidery is visible. This lovely piece is full length, and shows no wear, with no stitch holes or any other sign of ever having been worn.It would be hard to find a better example of a desirable 4th Pattern Grossdeutschland Cuff Title. This one is choice, and in near mint condition.

Historical Description: Cuff titles (Ärmelstreifen) are uniform accoutrements that have been used in the German military since the 19^thcentury. Intended to foster a certain sense of ‘esprit de corps’ amongst members of the armed forces, they were authorized for wear by members of designated units for the duration of their service time within that unit. In the event of transfer out of the unit, the cuff title was to be removed from the service member’s uniform. During the Third Reich, the German military continued this tradition by instituting honorary cuff titles to certain ‘special’ formations. This practice is perhaps most well-known for its application amongst Waffen- ϟϟ units. Cuff titles were also authorized for wear within all branches of the Wehrmacht (Army, Air Force and Navy) as well. These unit-specific cuff titles are not to be confused with others, which were awarded for participation in a certain campaign. The tradition, within the German military of wearing cuff titles, continues into the 21^st century with certain honor guard contingents of the Bundeswehr being permitted to wear unit-specific cuff titles.