A Second Pattern (1934-1945) Waffen-SS Visor Skull by Zimmermann “RZM 499/41”

This is a second pattern (1934-1945) Waffen-SS (Schutzstaffel) visor skull; good details from die-stamp production in silvered zinc; with most of the silvering on the obverse worn off, but the reverse mostly intact, and faded; missing both prongs; maker marked “RZM 499/41” (Fritz Zimmermann, Stuttgart) on reverse; measuring approximately 30 mm x 29 mm;in worn condition.

Footnote: Julius Schreck, member of the NSDAP and leader of the Staabswache (Adolf Hitler’s bodyguard unit) resurrected the Totenkopf from when it was used in the interwar period by the Freikorps. The Staabswache eventually grew into the SS (Schutzstaffel), who continued the use of the Totenkopf until the end of the Second War. Heinrich Himmler, chief of the SS said that “the skull is a reminder that you shall always be willing to put yourself at the stake for the life of the whole community”.