A Special Badge for Single-Handed Tank Destruction; Gold Grade

This is a scarce “Sonderabzeichen für das Niederkämpfen von Panzerkampfwagen durch Einzelkämpfer”; the tank on the badge is a Panzer Mk IW and is constructed of gilded magnetic metal with very crisp details, superimposed on golden bullion wire and fine quality interwoven embroidery; edged on the top and bottom sides by two black rayon stripes; without a wool backer but instead a metal plate with all three prongs fully intact; measuring 88 mm x 32 mm; in worn and uniform removed condition.

Footnote: The Tank Destruction Badge was a German military decoration during the Third Reich, awarded to individuals in the Wehrmacht who 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, but was awarded for actions dating back to the start of Operation Barbarossa (June 22nd, 1941). The gold grade tank destruction badge was awarded for the single-handed destruction of five tanks.