A Fine Badge for Single-Handed Tank Destruction; Silver Grade

This is a very fine “Sonderabzeichen für das Niederkämpfen von Panzerkraftwagen durch Einzelkämpfer”; the tank badge on the Obverse is a Panzer MK IV and is constructed of blackened metal (magnetic); with very crisp details; superimposed on a silver celleon (cello) tight interwoven braid, edged on the top and bottom sides by two black rayon strips. The badge is backed by a Feldgrau wool backer; measuring 87 mm x 29 mm; textbook example; in slightly worn condition with some adhesive residue on the top between the celleon and the wool backer.

Footnote: The Tank Destruction Badge was a German military decoration during the Third Reich, awarded to individuals in the Wehrmacht who had single-handedly destroyed an enemy tank or “armoured combat vehicle” using a hand-held weapon. Panzerjäger/Anti-Tank Squads were not eligible for this award. The tank destruction badge was established on March 9th, 1942. The silver grade tank destruction badge was awarded for the single-handed destruction of one tank.