G79 Weekly General Auction Monday
Lot 291:
Description
This is a German commemorative or membership badge from the Third Reich era, specifically associated with the World War II period (circa 1933–1945). The badge is dedicated to the Fahr- und Kraftfahreinheiten (Driving and Motor Vehicle Units), which encompassed both horse-drawn and motorised transport divisions of the German armed forces. It is designed in the form of a swallow-tailed command pennant attached to a flagpole. The obverse displays a central oak leaf wreath containing a Reichsadler (eagle and swastika) set against an Iron Cross-style background, with four swastikas positioned in the corners of the field. Although visually similar to die-cast metal, this item is confirmed to be constructed from plastic. The fields of the flag retain remnants of a light blue colour finish. The reverse is embossed with the unit designation and the Ges. Gesch. mark, indicating a legally protected design. Such badges were frequently distributed during Winterhilfswerk (WHW) charity campaigns.