RLB Door ID Plaque – Berlin

Product Description: This is a particularly attractive and well-preserved RLB Member’s Door Identification Plaque—an iconic emblem once displayed on the homes of members of the Reichsluftschutzbund (RLB), the German National Air Raid Protection organization responsible for safeguarding civilians during enemy bombing raids. These plaques served an important function during the war, designating households where neighbors could seek assistance, guidance, or information regarding air-raid preparedness.

This circular plaque measures 73 mm in diameter and is struck in silvered Tombak. Much of the original silver finish has gently worn away, allowing the underlying metal to show through and develop a rich, even, deeply appealing patina. The face of the plaque bears the raised inscription “Mitglied des Reichsluftschutzbundes” along with “Landesgr. Berlin”identifying the Berlin regional group—an always desirable variant.

At the center is the early-style RLB organizational emblem: the stylized initials RLB set atop a radiating starburst, positioned above a swastika. The blue enamel of the letters and emblem is remarkably preserved, retaining its original glossy brilliance with virtually no damage—an uncommon trait for these plaques, which were often exposed to the elements.

The reverse shows a heavy, untouched patina consistent with age and outdoor use. Overall, this RLB Member’s Door ID Plaque remains in excellent condition and displays beautifully.

Historical Description: German political and civil authorities began preparing for Allied air raids even before WWII started. The Reichs-Luftschutz-Bund (RLB), under the auspices of the German Luftwaffe, was the primary organization responsible for air raid protection and readiness. Shelters were constructed all over the German Reich, and civilians were issued gas masks. Members of the RLB wore many different kinds of uniforms and equipment, from fine regalia used in parades to work coveralls and protective equipment and gear for firefighting. After the outbreak of the war, the role of the Luftschutz was expanded, and other organizations were brought under the Luftschutz umbrella, including the Luftschutz-Warndienst, Luftschutzpolizei, and the Sicherheits- und Hilfsdienst. The men and women of the Luftschutz were tasked with extinguishing fires caused by incendiary bombs, often with nothing more than buckets of sand or water with hand pups. They maintained order in air raid bunkers and provided first aid to those injured in the bombings. In the day and night raids on the bombed-out cities, and even during the horrific firestorms that took the lives of thousands, the Luftschutz were on duty.

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