Original Spanish Civil War Black Wound Badge in die-struck construction, awarded to Condor Legion personnel wounded in combat. Complete with original pin assembly, retaining much of its original finish and crisp detailing throughout.
€ 170
An original Spanish Civil War Black Wound Badge (Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz), awarded to German personnel wounded while serving with the Condor Legion during the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939). This scarce combat award represents one of the earliest Third Reich wound decorations and is highly sought after by collectors of Condor Legion, Spanish Civil War and pre-Second World War militaria.
Instituted in 1938, the Spanish Civil War Wound Badge recognised German volunteers who sustained combat wounds while supporting Nationalist forces in Spain. The Black Grade was awarded to personnel wounded once or twice in combat. Many recipients of these early awards later served with distinction during the Second World War, making the badge an important link between the Spanish Civil War and later Wehrmacht service.
The obverse displays the distinctive M35-style steel helmet bearing a swastika above crossed swords, surrounded by an oval laurel wreath. Unlike the standard 1939 Wound Badge, the Spanish Civil War version features unique design characteristics that distinguish it from later wartime awards. This particular example is a die-struck (die stamped) badge, manufactured using the traditional striking process rather than cast construction. Die-struck examples are admired for their sharper detail, crisp definition and quality of manufacture.
This example retains much of its original black finish with honest age-related wear and patina. The reverse is complete with its original hinge, pin and catch assembly, all of which remain intact. The badge exhibits crisp detailing throughout and represents an excellent original example for the discerning collector.
Please study the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.
The Spanish Civil War Black Wound Badge is considerably scarcer than the later 1939 pattern and represents one of the earliest combat decorations awarded to German personnel before the outbreak of the Second World War. Original die-struck examples are especially desirable due to their superior quality of manufacture and sharper detail. As a genuine Condor Legion award, this badge holds strong appeal for collectors specialising in the Spanish Civil War, Condor Legion, Blue Division and early Third Reich militaria.
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