EM RLB/Luftschutz Buckle – 2nd Pattern

Product Description: This EM RLB/Luftschutz Buckle is an attractive example of this scarce buckle. This is the second pattern of Luftschutz buckle. The front depicts the same large winged swastika with “Luftschutz” banner emblem, that was used on the front of this organization’s helmets. It is stamped from one piece of silvered aluminum. It shows some surface wear, with scattered marks, and wear to the silver finish that reveals bare aluminum. The Luftschutz emblem is nicely detailed. The reverse of this EM RLB/Luftschutz Buckle shows the emblem in reverse. There is no manufacturer marking. The catch for the hook on the belt is a separate piece that remains originally affixed to the reverse. The roller bar and prongs assembly for fastening this to a belt is all-aluminum, and is complete, with some light corrosion from age. This appealing and uncommon buckle remains in excellent condition.

Historical Description: The belt buckle was an important part of the regalia worn by all uniformed military, civil, political, and paramilitary organizations during the Third Reich. The belt (“Koppel”) was part of the uniform and would always be worn while on duty. The belt buckle (“Koppelschloss”) was generally specific to each organization, with many organizations having separate belt buckles for officers and for enlisted personnel, sometimes with different colors and finishes to further denote specific purposes. The buckles were adorned with various mottos and designs specific to the organizations for which they were intended. Many designs used the German national eagle emblem, in a variety of forms. Belt buckles were worn with uniforms ranging from finely tailored officer parade uniforms, to the issue uniforms of enlisted soldiers in combat. Generally speaking, most German belt buckles of the Third Reich were made with two prongs on the reverse, to allow the buckle to be worn and adjusted on a belt. The buckle had a catch that would mate with a hook on the belt, when worn. The earliest Third Reich buckles were often made of brass, or nickel silver. Later, aluminum became very common, and was used on private purchase as well as enlisted buckles of the German military, with or without a painted or plated finish. After WWII began, most enlisted military buckles were steel. Nazi belt buckles were popular souvenirs for Allied troops who served in Europe. Some types were made by the millions and remain quite common today. Others were made in limited numbers and are very rare.

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

Epic Artifacts offers free evaluations and the highest prices available for your collectibles.

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

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