An original WWII German DRL (Deutscher Reichsbund für Leibesübungen) Sports Badge in bronze by Wernstein Jena, reverse marked DRGM 35269. Complete with its original pin, hinge and catch, this attractive period example displays a pleasing aged patina and would make an excellent addition to any collection of Third Reich sporting awards or German militaria.
€ 45
An original Second World War German DRL (Deutscher Reichsbund für Leibesübungen) Sports Badge in bronze finish. The badge features the ornate intertwined “DRL” monogram surrounded by an oak leaf wreath with a swastika at the base, representing the national sports organisation of Germany during the Third Reich period.
The reverse retains its original pin, hinge and catch assembly and is clearly marked “DRGM. 35269” together with “Wernstein Jena”, identifying it as an officially produced period example. Wernstein Jena is a recognised manufacturer of DRL Sports Badges, with examples of this marked variant well known amongst collectors.
The badge displays an attractive aged bronze patina with honest period wear, adding to its originality and collector appeal.
The DRL Sports Badge was awarded to civilians who successfully completed demanding physical fitness tests covering athletics, swimming, gymnastics and endurance events. Originally introduced as the DRA Sports Badge during the Weimar Republic, it was redesignated as the DRL Sports Badge following the reorganisation of German sporting associations after 1933.
A desirable original example of a classic Third Reich sporting award, ideal for collectors of German militaria, political awards or pre-war sports memorabilia.
Good original condition with attractive age-related patina throughout. Complete with original pin, hinge and catch. Reverse clearly stamped “DRGM. 35269” and “Wernstein Jena”. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the description.
The DRL Sports Badge (Deutscher Reichsbund für Leibesübungen) evolved from the earlier DRA Sports Badge (Deutscher Reichsausschuss für Leibesübungen), first introduced in 1913 to promote physical fitness among the German population. Following the National Socialist government’s reorganisation of German sporting organisations in 1934, the DRA became the DRL, and the badge was redesigned to incorporate the national emblem of the period.
The badge was awarded to civilians who successfully completed a demanding programme of physical tests covering running, jumping, throwing, swimming and endurance exercises. Separate standards existed for men and women, with candidates required to demonstrate all-round athletic ability rather than excellence in a single discipline.
Although primarily a civilian sporting award, many members of the Wehrmacht, SA, SS, NSKK, Hitler Youth and other organisations also qualified for and proudly wore the badge on their uniforms. It became one of the most recognisable German sporting awards of the era and remained in use until the end of the Second World War in 1945.
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