German WWII Close Combat Clasp in Silver-This is a good display piece. It retains the majority of its silver finish. The details on this badge are striking. The backplate is in place but does show some rusting. The pin is not attached to this example. We have the pin, but it has broken off from its hinge. We will include it. This is a pretty badge that would look great on display, but please be sure to look at the photos to see the separated pin and the backplate that has some rust.
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.