Germany, Luftwaffe. A Ground Assault Badge, by J.E. Hammer & Söhne

(Erdkampfabzeichen der Luftwaffe). Constructed of silvered and patinated zink, the obverse consisting of an oval oak leaf wreath, joined together at the bottom by ribbon, topped by a Luftwaffe eagle clutching a mobile swastika, overlaying a stylized cloud from which a lightning bolt emanates and strikes the ground, the reverse with a single visible rivet securing the obverse eagle in place, with a crimped barrel hinge and vertical pinback meeting a round wire catch, unmarked, measuring 44.35 mm (w) x 56.02 mm (h), weighing 35.4 grams, accompanied by its period original package of issue, constructed of light brown paper stock, the exterior bearing an inscription of “LUFTWAFFEN-ERDKAMPF-ABZEICHEN” and a maker’s mark of “J.E. HAMMER & SÖHNE, GERINGSWALDE”, measuring 57 mm (w) x 105 mm (h), the badge with minor loss of finish evident in addition to some loosening of the eagle, in overall better than very fine condition.