Germany, Third Reich. A Stahlhelm Commencement of Duty Badge Document to Paul Erdmann, c.1934

(Urkunde). An award certificate for a Commencement of Duty Badge of the Stahlhelm, League of Front Soldiers, issued to Paul Erdmann, by the regional state organization in Nordsee, Erdmann was from Wilhelmshaven and joined the Stahlhelm in 1924, the award is dated 20 February 1934, presents a facsimile signature of founder Franz Seldte (1882-1947), presents a facsimile signature of the national treasurer Theodor Gruß, measuring 23.4 cm (w) x 31.5 cm (h), displaying minor creasing and scuffing, presenting two punched holes along left margin, and in near very fine condition.

Footnote: The Stahlhelm (steel helmet), League of Front Soldiers was a paramilitary organization founded in 1918. It attracted former soldiers from WWI whose financial situation was unstable and who rejected the new democracy of the Weimar Republic. Because of its fundamentally monarchist character, the Stahlhelm was distrusted after Hitler’s rise to power. It was urged to merge with the SA, which largely happened in 1934. The remaining organization was finally outlawed by AH in 1935.