Luftwaffe Dart Birds?

[Larry Lipps]

and the reverse,

[Larry Lipps]

Since it's really no fun to have a thread without some controversy, here you go!

Because of the late institution of the Luftwaffe Ground Gombat Badge, they're almost always encountered in zinc. While there are pieces attributed to the Juncker firm, it's based on the method of construction, not maker's marks. A badge falling outside of those boundries would have to be considered, at minimum, a curiosity.

Luftwaffe Ground Combat marked CE Juncker

Struck in Neusilber

[Larry Lipps]

The reverse,

[Larry Lipps]

My guess is that this badge was struck as a presentation piece of some sort. Just my theory. It's really unfortunate that on such a unique piece that, after a hard night, Willi couldn't keep the maker's mark aligned while he was whacking it. There are three separate marks, it's not a blurry photo. Still the skinny "E" before the R, leaning "L", and "Z" shaped S are fortunately fairly visible. The highlights are polished, and it's really an exceptional badge to hold in your hand. I've heard plenty of praise and criticism so any comments are welcome.

[Bob Hunter]

Magnificent display, Larry! Best Ground Assault badge I have ever seen!

[Larry Lipps]

Thanks Bob! A couple of years ago I took it to the SOS so I know several members have seen it first hand. It's really an exceptional example.

[Frank Heukemes]

Thanks Bob!  A couple of years ago I took it to the SOS so I know several members have seen it first hand.  It's really an exceptional example.

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Dear Larry and "hi guys",

I did not know that example yet! Outstanding, I hope that I can hold and examine it too one day.

Cheers,

Frank

[J Temple-West]

Hi de hi, Frank.

Delighted to see that you found the 'Club' and hope that we will be seeing a lot more of you.

The first stein is on me...