SS Police Brocade Belt & Buckle

Product Description:  A finely preserved SS Brocade Belt & Buckle, notable for its exceptional state of conservation and striking visual presence. The brocade belt is overall in near-mint condition, with no wear or damage to the metal bullion wire, which retains a vibrant, even metallic sheen. Finely interwoven SS runes extend crisply along the full length of the belt. The velour backing remains largely intact, exhibiting only minor areas of discoloration and a few small holes consistent with age. The leather adjustment strap is supple and complete, with a small tear at one hole that does not detract from the belt’s overall presentation. The belt is clearly marked size 95 and presents in a pleasing flat lay, making it particularly well suited for display.

The accompanying buckle is preserved in near-mint condition, sharply struck and marked RZM M1/22, identifying the maker. Surface detail remains crisp, with clean finishes and no evidence of repair or post-war alteration. This SS Brocade Belt & Buckle is absolutely guaranteed authentic and represents a highly attractive, original example combining desirable markings, strong eye appeal, and exceptional preservation.  Overall this set rates as excellent ++ / near mint.

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.