Condition: Excellent
Maker: AS in Triangle
Pattern: 2nd
Base Material: Zinc
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Product Description: This 2nd Pattern S Boat Badge is a very nice example of a scarce and desirable Navy award. It’s made of die struck zinc, and has outstanding finish. The badge’s wreath, eagle, and swastika retain approximately 95% of the original, factory applied gold wash, with lacquering. The lightly grayed ship, with three rolling waves, still has nearly all of the factory applied finish and lacquering intact. The badge shows very slight age toning, as well as light wear that exposes the base metal in some small spots at high points. The reverse of this 2nd Pattern S Boat Badge is flat and smooth, and is maker marked with a stylized “AS” in a triangle. As of this time, there is debate as to who the true identity of this maker is; this variant is referred to by collectors simply as “AS in Triangle.” The hardware is textbook for a 2nd Pattern S Boat Badge by this maker. The ball hinge, catch, and even the support clasp are crimped in place. The attachment pin is functional, and there are no signs of repair. This badge has great eye appeal, and remains in a strong excellent plus 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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