Condition: Excellent
Sold
Product Description: This is a textbook example of the standard issue Volkssturm armband, as worn by the civilian militia units that fought alongside the military between October, 1944, and the end of WWII. This standard issue Volkssturm armband is printed on a thin fabric with a diagonal weave. As is typical with these, there is a lot of bleed-through of the ink that was used, and the graphics are visible on the reverse. The eagles do not face each other, which is the most commonly encountered original configuration for these (there were many, many variations). This standard issue Volkssturm armband is sewn together in the back, with a thread that does not match the rest of the construction. This is typical; the armbands were constructed in quantity, the ends left unsewn, and then finished when they were fitted to a uniform jacket or greatcoat. This one is in excellent condition overall, showing only minor age toning. There are a couple of neat hand stitches on the reverse. This was likely an issued piece. Nice example.
Historical Description: Nearly every military, civil, political and paramilitary organization in existence during the Third Reich used armbands. Armbands were worn on military and civilian uniforms and also on civilian clothes, from suit jackets to work clothing. They were used to denote membership in organizations, to indicate a specific role or function of the bearer, and as insignia of rank. Many organizations would change the design of their armbands over time, which added to the variety produced. These were manufactured in countless variations, ranging from simple printed bands to elaborately hand-embroidered pieces of the highest quality. Some Nazi armbands were worn by all members of large organizations and were made by the millions. Others were intended for use at a specific time and place and were unique. Many types were made in very limited numbers. Some bore metal insignia or special identifiers that indicated the wearer’s rank, unit affiliation, or nationality. Armbands were sometimes but not always marked with ink stamps by the issuing authorities.
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