Description Infantry Assault Badge in silver. Possibly the most popular combat badge for collectors with original pieces demanding ever higher prices. The silver grade was the first issued 20th December 1939 following by the bronze 1st June 1940. Both of these grades are equal , the difference being the based solely on the branch of service. Later in 1940 the awarded was extend to include medics aswell as Infantry. The Bronze grade was awarded for motorized/ reconnaissance infantry units and holds exactly the same status. The original design was by C. E. Junker of Berlin. It is comprised of an oval with four oak leaves on each side and a stylized bow at the bottom. To the top is the German national eagle holding a swastika in its claws. To the centre is a rifle with a fixed bayonet . The reverse hardware consists of a vertical pin system. the hinge is soldered, riveted or crimped into place. A variety of combinations were used. The same app;lies to the catch top hold the pin. Early examples were often die stamped in silver but soon replaced by massive stamped zinc based badges. As usual the later examples were cast from kriegsmetal. badges were made of silver-plate and the later ones were made of zinc. The “bronze” version was actually made of a “metal alloy”. Many badges were unmarked and named badges should not be taken as original. Many companies were employed in the manufacture of these badges. The silver grade award regulations are as follows Participated in three assaults On three different days With weapon in hand Broke into enemy positions
