Original German WWII SS Overcoat Wool & Rayon Multi-Piece Armband with Partial Paper SS RZM A4/278 Tag

Original Item: Only One Available: The SS (Schutzstaffel - 'Protection Squadron') was originally formed in 1925, ostensibly to act as a small, loyal bodyguard unit to protect the Führer, Adolf AH. Under the direction of the Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler, the SS grew to be the most ruthless and feared organization of the 20th century. They were the vanguard of the NSDAP and eventually controlled nearly every function of German life and much of Occupied Europe.

This is a very nice SS Member's Kampfbinde (Armband), with a red woven wool band, and a multipiece rayon moire material swas (hook cross) sewn onto the front. This armband is more or less identical to the standard armband of the National Socialist German Workers' Party (Nationalsozialistische Deutsche Arbeiterpartei, abbreviated NSDAP), with only the issue tags differentiating them. This style of SS armband without a border was worn on Great Coats or overcoats.

The inner side still features the original RZM tag which is unfortunately missing the bottom half. It still shows the correct “D” tax code and features a RZM logo as well as the ᛋᛋ Doppelte Siegrune (Double Sig/Victory Rune) insignia. The ink stamped numerical designation of the maker is A4 / 275, but the lot number is missing. Research indicates that this type of tag was used after 1938, when the move was made to less expensive paper tags.

It is in very good condition, and measures approximately 15 1/2" x 4 5/8", and is sewn together in the back, looking to have possibly been reduced in length somewhat. There is extra fabric on the interior, with the border cut off so it lies flat. There is some very light staining and age toning, as well as overall wear to the fabric. There are a few small holes, possibly from mothing.

A very nice example of a hard to find armband, still with a partial original RZM tag!

Nearly every military, civil, political and paramilitary organization in existence during the Third Reich used armbands. Armbands were worn on military and civilian uniforms and also on civilian clothes, from suit jackets to work clothing. They were used to denote membership in organizations, to indicate a specific role or function of the bearer, and as insignia of rank. Many organizations would change the design of their armbands over time, which added to the variety produced. These were manufactured in countless variations, ranging from simple printed bands to elaborately hand-embroidered pieces of the highest quality. Some NSDAP armbands were worn by all members of large organizations and were made by the millions. Others were intended for use at a specific time and place and were unique. Many types were made in very limited numbers. Some bore metal insignia or special identifiers that indicated the wearer’s rank, unit affiliation, or nationality. Armbands were sometimes but not always marked with ink stamps by the issuing authorities.