Description
Authentic WWII Luftwaffe Flak Battle Badge (Flak-Kampfabzeichen der Luftwaffe)
by E. Ferdinand Wiedmann, Frankfurt
This is an original German World War II Luftwaffe Anti-Aircraft Flak Battle Badge (Flak-Kampfabzeichen der Luftwaffe), manufactured by E. Ferdinand Wiedmann of Frankfurt, a recognized wartime producer.
The Flak Badge was instituted on January 10, 1941, by Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring, Commander-in-Chief of the Luftwaffe. It was awarded to Luftwaffe anti-aircraft (Flak) personnel who distinguished themselves in combat against enemy aircraft or ground targets, including participation in confirmed engagements and sustained operational service.
The badge design, created by Wilhelm Ernst Peekhaus, features a central 88 mm Flak gun with its barrel elevated and extending beyond the upper edge of the wreath. The gun is framed by an oval oak leaf wreath, joined at the base by a ribbon tie, and surmounted by a Luftwaffe national eagle clutching a mobile swastika.
This example is constructed of silver-finished zinc, consistent with mid- to late-war production. The obverse retains clear detail across the wreath, eagle, and gun assembly. The reverse exhibits a crimped barrel hinge, vertical pinback, and flat wire catch, which emanates from a circular soldered base plate—a configuration typical of Wiedmann manufacture.
The reverse is maker marked with the Wiedmann logo, correctly identifying E. Ferdinand Wiedmann, Frankfurt, and confirming originality.
The Luftwaffe Flak Badge remains one of the most recognizable and historically significant combat awards of the German air defense arm. Maker-marked examples by Wiedmann are well regarded among collectors for their consistent construction and authentic wartime characteristics.
A genuine, correctly attributed WWII Luftwaffe combat badge, suitable for an advanced militaria collection.
