This original matched set of Original Waffen-SS Cavalry Shoulder Straps and Collar Tabs represents an increasingly scarce example of Second World War German military insignia. Comprising a matching pair of Waffen-SS Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) shoulder straps and collar tabs, the set is attributed to a 13th Squadron (13. Schwadron) of a Waffen-SS cavalry regiment. The distinctive goldgelb (golden yellow) Waffenfarbe identifies the cavalry arm and distinguishes these insignia from the more commonly encountered infantry and Panzer examples.
€ 1.000
1 in stock
This original matched set of Original Waffen-SS Cavalry Shoulder Straps and Collar Tabs represents an increasingly scarce example of Second World War German military insignia. Comprising a matching pair of Waffen-SS Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) shoulder straps and collar tabs, the set is attributed to a 13th Squadron (13. Schwadron) of a Waffen-SS cavalry regiment. The distinctive goldgelb (golden yellow) Waffenfarbe identifies the cavalry arm and distinguishes these insignia from the more commonly encountered infantry and Panzer examples.
The shoulder straps are expertly constructed from silver-grey woven cord mounted upon a goldgelb wool underlay. Each retains its original gilt metal “13” numeral, representing the wearer’s squadron designation. The matching collar patches feature correctly applied silver NCO Tresse on black wool, exhibiting the quality of manufacture expected from authentic wartime Waffen-SS insignia.
The set displays honest period wear and remains an excellent representative example of original Waffen-SS cavalry insignia, making it highly desirable for collectors of German militaria, museum displays and advanced uniform collections.
The history of the Original Waffen-SS Cavalry Shoulder Straps reflects the rapid expansion of the Waffen-SS during the Second World War. Early mounted units evolved from the SS cavalry regiments formed before the outbreak of war and later developed into complete cavalry divisions that fought extensively on the Eastern Front.
Among the most recognised formations were:
Unlike infantry formations, cavalry units organised their sub-units as Schwadronen (Squadrons) rather than companies. Consequently, the original gilt “13” numerals fitted to these shoulder straps are most logically interpreted as representing 13. Schwadron (13th Squadron).
The goldgelb Waffenfarbe is one of the defining characteristics of these Original Waffen-SS Cavalry Shoulder Straps. Throughout the German armed forces, this branch colour identified cavalry personnel and mounted reconnaissance formations.
Goldgelb differs from several other branch colours:
The rich golden-yellow tone visible beneath the cords is consistent with cavalry insignia and supports the attribution of this set to a mounted Waffen-SS formation.
The quality of manufacture reflects wartime Waffen-SS production standards.
The insignia remain free from restoration and retain their original appearance.
The Original Waffen-SS Cavalry Shoulder Straps and Collar Tabs remain in very good original condition.
The shoulder straps exhibit minor fraying to the tongues and light age-related wear consistent with wartime service. The original gilt numerals remain securely attached, while the collar tabs retain their original silver Tresse and crisp construction. Overall, the set presents exceptionally well and displays the desirable untouched patina sought by collectors.
Original Waffen-SS cavalry shoulder straps are encountered far less frequently than infantry or Panzer examples. Complete matched sets retaining original branch colours, original metal numerals and matching collar tabs are particularly desirable.
Although the original “13” numerals almost certainly denote a 13th Squadron, they cannot be conclusively attributed to a specific Waffen-SS regiment without supporting provenance. Nevertheless, the combination of goldgelb Waffenfarbe, matching insignia and original numerals makes this an impressive and increasingly scarce collector’s piece.
Collectors interested in related material may also wish to browse our collections of:
The construction, stitching, woven cords, branch colour, backing material and original gilt numerals all display characteristics expected of authentic wartime manufacture.
As with all original Third Reich cloth insignia, absolute authentication should always include an in-hand examination by an experienced specialist. Based upon the visible characteristics, however, this set displays the construction and materials associated with genuine wartime Waffen-SS production.
For further research, the following publications are recommended:
Explore related listings: Uniform Accessories & Belts.
For additional historical information, consult:
This superb pair of Original Waffen-SS Cavalry Shoulder Straps and Collar Tabs represents a scarce surviving example of Waffen-SS mounted troop insignia. The attractive goldgelb Waffenfarbe, original “13” squadron numerals, matching NCO collar tabs and untouched wartime construction combine to create an outstanding display piece suitable for advanced collectors and museum-quality collections alike.
