Assmann Minesweeper

Product Description: This Assmann Minesweeper Badge is a choice example of a scarce and very desirable variant. This early, top-quality badge is made of a brass alloy (Tombak) that has retained the finish very well over time. The wreath retains virtually all of the original, factory applied gilding, which remains very bright and eye-catching. The dark burnished waves and water burst also show great finish, with light wear to the high relief areas where the golden gleam of the Tombak is peeking through. The reverse of this Assmann Minesweeper Badge is textbook throughout, and is untouched, with no repairs. The back of the badge is flat and smooth and retains the dark factory finish. The stylized “A” Assmann maker mark is behind the water burst. The hardware is all typical for this maker, with a block hinge, functional banjo style attachment pin, and sheet metal catch. This beautiful piece would be tough to upgrade. It’s in outstanding condition.

Historical Description: The Minesweeper, Sub-Chaser and Escort Vessel War Badge (Kriegsabzeichen für Minensuch-, U-Boot-Jagd- und Sicherungsverbände) was instituted on August 31, 1941, by Kriegsmarine leader Grossadmiral Erich Raeder. The purpose of this award was to recognize the achievement and experience of the sailors on the German Navy’s minesweeper vessels. In this unnerving duty, sailors faced exposure to the elements as well as constant danger from mines, submarines, and airplanes. The Minesweeper Badge features a representation of an exploding sea mine, surrounded by a wreath and surmounted by the German national eagle and swastika emblem. It was designed by Otto Placzek and was made in tombak and zinc, with most later examples being the zinc type. The award could be ordered by leaders of minesweeper boats, patrol boats, and special units, and by superior Kriegsmarine commands. To qualify for this badge, a sailor had to make three operational sorties, be wounded on a sortie, show exemplary conduct over a six-month period, participate in an especially dangerous mission, serve on escort duty for 25 days or more, or be on a ship that was sunk by enemy action- the badge could be awarded posthumously.

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