Panzer SS Sleeve Eagle Cut-Off

Product Description: This rare and extremely desirable cut-off Panzer SS Sleeve Eagle is an evocative veteran souvenir piece. The eagle is an embroidered type, with the distinctive eagle and swastika emblem of the SS neatly executed in light gray thread on a backing of black SS wool badge cloth. The machine embroidery is perfect, with no damage. This pattern of sleeve eagle is one that was factory applied on enlisted issue uniforms. This one was used for a Panzer wrap, and was cut off by a souvenir hunter, leaving part of the uniform affixed. The sewing attaching the eagle to the uniform piece is typical factory work, with zig-zag machine stitching in black thread. The cut uniform section is textbook plain weave black wool as was commonly used for SS Panzer uniforms. This cut-off Panzer SS Sleeve Eagle is a really lovely piece, with great character. It shows only minimal wear and age, and remains in excellent plus condition.

Historical Description: The German Armed Forces (Wehrmacht), as formed in 1935, and as they existed until the end of World War 2, consisted of the Army (Heer), the Air Force (Luftwaffe) and the Navy (Kriegsmarine). The Waffen-SS fell under the command of the Wehrmacht during the war. Each of these branches of service had a unique eagle design that was worn on both the formal dress and parade uniforms, and the field uniforms, of the members of that branch. These eagles were worn on soft headgear, including service and field caps, as well as on the uniform jacket. In the Heer, the Luftwaffe, and the Kriegsmarine, this eagle was worn on the chest of the tunic; collectors have termed these “breast eagles.” The Heer and the Luftwaffe generally used the same eagle style, though variations in color of the eagle or the backing distinguish between the two. The Luftwaffe used their own flying eagle emblem. The Waffen-SS sleeve eagle (and cap eagle) had wings that came to a distinctive tapered point. The cap, breast and sleeve eagles used by the various military branches were manufactured in many variations. There were machine-woven and machine embroidered versions, usually used by officers and NCOs. Hand-embroidered bullion wire eagles were typically for officers. There were metal eagles, for caps, or for uniforms that were intended to have detachable insignia. There were even eagles embroidered on camouflage fabric, intended for use on special field uniforms. There were also eagles in specific colors for use on tropical uniforms. Some of these eagles were mass-produced and are still common today. Others were, 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