Black Wound Badge – 65 – Klein & Quenzer

Product Description: This Black Wound Badge – 65, produced by the well-known wartime manufacturer Klein & Quenzer (KQ), is a fine and highly collectible example of an authentic WWII wound badge. Crafted from steel, this badge was awarded to soldiers who were wounded in combat, recognizing their sacrifice and service. It remains in Excellent+ condition, showing only light signs of age and wear, which add to its character and historical significance.

The reverse of the badge is clearly marked with “65” for “KQ,” verifying its authenticity and confirming its production by Klein & Quenzer. The original hardware is intact, correct for this maker, and remains in excellent working order. There are no repairs or damage, ensuring this piece has been well-preserved over time. This Black Wound Badge – 65 – Klein & Quenzer is in excellent + condition.

Historical Description: The German Wound Badge was instituted during the First World War to recognize those wounded in the conflict. It was designed using a World War One style Imperial German helmet as the main motif. The helmet was set on top two crossed swords against a pebbled background and surrounded by a laurel leaves wreath.

During the Spanish Civil War, the Third Reich reinstated the Wound Badge for a short period to honor those who were wounded during the conflict from 1936 to 1939. These German units participating in the assistance of the Spanish Fascists were deemed the “Condor Legion”. The pattern of the World War One Wound Badge was again used, except this time with a raised swastika on the center of the World War One era helmet.

At the outbreak of war in September 1939 with Poland, Adolf Hitler once again reinstated the Wound Badge Award. Again, the pattern of the badge was similar to that of the earlier style except the new design was freshened up a bit by using an M35 pattern German helmet and a slightly softer looking wreath. This pattern was used until the end of the war in 1945. It is impossible to know the exact numbers of wound badges awarded during the course of the Second World War due to the vast scale and countless individuals who were wounded or killed in the conflict.

The Wound Badge Awards came in three different types of grades representing the amount, or severity, of wounds received. The first grade, the Black Wound Badge was awarded for 1 to 2 wounds received in combat. The Silver Grade was awarded for 3 to 4 wounds, and finally the Gold Grade for 5 or more wounds, total disability, or death.

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

Epic Artifacts offers the highest prices available for your collectibles.

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

Feel free to email us directly: info@epicartifacts.com