Description
WWII German Kriegsmarine Destroyer War Badge (Zerstörerkriegsabzeichen) – Friedrich Orth, Vienna
An authentic World War II German Kriegsmarine Destroyer War Badge (Zerstörerkriegsabzeichen), manufactured by Friedrich Orth of Vienna. The badge was instituted on June 4, 1940, by Grand Admiral Erich Raeder, to recognize officers and crew serving on destroyers, torpedo boats, and fast attack craft for distinguished operational service.
Designed by Paul Casberg of Berlin, the badge depicts a destroyer cutting through stylized waves, surrounded by an oval oak leaf wreath, and surmounted by a German national eagle clutching a swastika. Award criteria included participation in three naval engagements, three offensive mining operations, or 12 sorties against enemy targets, reflecting both combat action and operational excellence.
This example appears to be an early to mid-war production, likely struck in tombak or zinc, and retains much of its original finish. The reverse is equipped with a vertical pinback and barrel hinge, typical of period manufacture.
A highly collectible Kriegsmarine naval award, valued for its authentic maker attribution, historical significance, and fine wartime craftsmanship, suitable for advanced collectors of WWII German naval militaria.
