Original WWII German Hitler Youth HJ RARE SHARPSHOOTER BADGE. (HJ Schützen-Abzeichen) Certified

SOLD

Original WWII German Hitler Youth HJ SHARPSHOOTER BADGE. (HJ Schützen-Abzeichen) Certified. In 1936 Reichsjugendführer Baldur von Schirach established a HJ Firearms School in Obermatzfeld Thuringia to stimulate expertise in firearm handling and to further the para-military training of the HJ. Shortly after the establishment of the HJ Firearms School von Schirach instituted a Marksman’s badge for HJ members who had proven their proficiency with firearms, followed in 1938 by the establishment of a Sharpshooters badge for HJ members and a new Marksman’s badge for DJ members with each badge having different award criteria. The HJ Marksman’s badge, the first and lowest class badge, was awarded to qualifying HJ members over the age of fourteen for proficiency in target shooting, with small caliber rifles. Qualification for bestowal of the badge consisted of the accurate results of five shots fired from a unsupported prone position, five shots from a supported prone position and five shots from a unsupported kneeling position. Of Note: The series of HJ shooting badges was further expanded with the introduction of a Master Shooters badge in December 1941. The criteria for award of the Sharpshooters badge and the Master Shooters badge required ten shots in each of the same three positions as the Marksman’s badge but with a higher degree of accuracy. Roughly 27mm diameter, slightly convexed, two piece, die stuck alloy construction badge with a multi-colored enamel and nickel/silver plated finish. Badge features a recessed, embossed outer oak-leaf wreath encompassing four concentric “target” rings on a black enamel background field with a separate, raised, HJ diamond superimposed over crossed rifles affixed rivetted to the center. The HJ diamond features semi-translucent red enamel field to top and bottom quarters and white enamel fields to the side quarters, with a central black canted enamel swastika. Reverse of the badge is well marked with embossed RZM logo with dual circular borders and manufacturers code, “M1/102” indicating manufacture by Frank & Reif Stuttgart. Badge is complete with its original combined pin and catch assembly intact to reverse. Of Note: From its institution in 1938 until the end of 1943 it is alleged that 31,904 Sharpshooter Badges were awarded. Also Of Note: The series of HJ shooting badges was expanded with the introduction of a Master Shooters Badge in December 1941. This higher class badge required ten shots in each of the same four positions as the Sharpshooters badge but with a higher degree of accuracy. One of the classic Hitler Youth insignia from the third Reich in used condition. Typical light age toning plus wear during use. Nice example issued with expected  age condition issues. Gettysburg Museum Certified (COA) provided. Rare 100% Guaranteed to be authentic. Sold for historic purposes only. See our other pieces on our web site.    Also note when browsing our web site there are several pages of items, at the bottom of the list look for other page numbers. One of the classic badges, GREAT LOOKING  RARE BADGE.