E-boat badge(German: Schnellboot-Kriegsabzeichen).
An extremly hard to find badge still in it's original issued paper box.
Maker marked 'L/18' for B.H Mayer
First pattern. One of only 5 makers that produced this type of badge.
Condition is excellent, the gold finish has faded a bit but still look very good in hand.
Box of issue in very good condition.
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HISTORY:
The E-boat Badge was first instituted on May 30, 1941 and was designed by Wilhelm Ernst Peekhaus of Berlin. In 1941, the E-Boat offensive was stepped up and until that time E-Boat crews had received the same badge as the Destroyers.
There are 3 known versions and they are referred to as, first type, second type and third type. Some of the known makers for the first type are Schwerin, second type: AS, AS (in a triangle), R.K., R.S., Schwerin, W.E. Peekhause, and for the third type: Mourgeon (Paris).
Presentation, Wear and Documents :
The badge was wrapped in tissue paper and presented in a buff box in two parts with the edges stapled. The award was made through the E-Boat Captain with an award document and was worn on the left breast pocket beneath the Iron Cross First class or similar award.
Award Criteria:
The award was presented to German crews for the achievements of successful attacks against enemy shipping. In case of death the award was presented posthumously. Besides good conduct and distinction the award criteria is as follows;
1. A minimum of twelve enemy actions.
2. When the mission was particularly successful and the individual displayed leadership or was killed in action.
3. Special circumstances of being wounded in action or survivors of ships sunk by enemy action.
4. To have performed a heroic action for which no other decoration was presented.
