Original German Pre-WWII SS Member Wool and Rayon Multi Piece Armband Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available: The SS (Schutzstaffel – ‘Protection Squadron’) was originally formed in 1925, ostensibly to act as a small, loyal bodyguard unit to protect the Führer, Adolf AH. Under the direction of the Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler, the SS grew to be the most ruthless and feared organization of the 20th century. They were the vanguard of NSDAPsm and eventually controlled nearly every function of German life and much of Occupied Europe.

This is a very nice SS Member’s Kampfbinde (Armband), with a red woven wool band, and a multipiece rayon swas (hooked cross) sewn onto the front. This armband is more or less identical to the standard armband of the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (Nationalsozialistische Deutsche Arbeiterpartei, abbreviated NSDAP), except for the black rayon borders on the edges.

It is in excellent barely used condition, and measures approximately 13 1/2″ x 4 1/2″, and is sewn together in the back. It is constructed of a red felt wool body, with a white rayon circle machine stitched on, which has a multi-piece rayon black swas attached. The black rayon borders are held on by two rows of machine stitching. We do not see any stitch holes or other evidence that it was installed on a uniform for any amount of time. The only condition issue is age toning to the white circle, giving it a nice “antiqued” look. This is really a great example of a rare and historic armband!

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 NSDAP 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.