Germany, Panzerjäger Oberst Shoulder Boards, WWII

A matching pair of authentic Second World War German field-grade officer shoulder boards for the rank of Oberst (Colonel). These boards are specifically attributed to Panzerjäger-Abteilung 18 (18th Anti-Tank Battalion), a unit associated with the 18th Panzer Division. The boards feature the distinctive rose-pink (rosa) Waffenfarbe wool underlay, which was the authorised branch colour for anti-tank and armoured troops. The top surface is constructed from braided matte silver-aluminium cord, typical for field-grade officers. Each board is adorned with gilt-finished metal devices, including two rank pips, a Gothic letter P cypher signifying Panzerjäger service, and the numeral 18. These are the sewn-in variety, indicating they were once permanently attached to a service tunic. There is significant research potential to identify the specific officer who held this rank within the 18th Anti-Tank Battalion, which would add considerable historical value to the set.