German WW2 Wound Badge in Black Aluminum

German WW2 Wound Badge in Black Aluminum 

Size: 4.5 cm L x 3.5 cm W

The German Wound Badge (Verwundetenabzeichen)1939 was a military decoration that was first instituted on the 3rdMarch 1918 during World War I.

Between the world wars, the Wound Badge was awarded to members of the German armed forces who fought during the Spanish Civil War, 1938-39 that received combat-related injuries.

During 1939 – 1945 the Wounded Badge was adopted by Wehrmacht, Luftwaffe, and the SS including civilians who received wounds from Allied Bombings or hostile action.

The Wound Badge was awarded in three grades black, silver, and gold.  The black wounded badge 3rd Class was awarded to individuals who were wounded 1 – 2 times, Silver 2nd Class 3 – 4 times, and the Gold Wound Badge 1st Class was sometimes awarded posthumously or for Injuries, or more sustained through hostilities.