German WWII Close Combat Clasp in Bronze by JFS-This is a choice example of a CCC in bronze. This is truly about as nice as they get. The bronze has toned to a nice chocolate brown color. The details are amazing. This shows hardly any wear at all. The back plate is in place and even though it is slightly scuffed on the reverse, it is not a distraction. This is a very well-marked example. The maker motto for Josef Feix and Sohne is seen by the catch. The name of the designer of the badge, Fec. W. E. Peekhaus of Berlin, is noted by the hinge. Textbook markings! The hinge and pin setup function perfectly. This is an outstanding example.
History: The Close Combat Clasp series of awards were introduced on November 25th, 1942, for award to personnel who fought in hand-to-hand combat situations unsupported by armor. The Clasp was issued in three grades of Bronze, Silver and Gold with each successive grade signifying more days spent in hand-to-hand or close combat. Criteria for award of the clasps consisted of fifteen days of hand-to-hand combat for bestowal of the bronze clasp, thirty days of hand-to-hand combat for bestowal of the silver clasp and fifty days of hand-to-hand combat for bestowal of the gold clasp. There was also a prescribed, combat to time served ratio, enabling long serving personnel to be eligible for award of a clasp.