German WWII Close Combat Clasp in Bronze by AUSF-This is a handsome badge. The bronze finish is in place, as is the black back plate. There is some verdigris or green corrosion throughout this badge though. There are a few spots on the right front, and more on the back. The pin does not open all the way due to the corrosion, and we have not attempted to force it. This is a shame because this badge is very nicely marked Ausf A.G.M.u.K. of Gablonz. This badge still has some very nice details, if you can live with the bit of verdigris throughout. Priced to sell.
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.