Kriegsmarine Auxiliary Cruiser War Badge 'R.S.'

Description

Kriegsmarine Auxiliary Cruiser War Badge (Kriegsabzeichen für Hilfskreuzer). The Auxiliary Cruiser War Badge was instituted on 24 April 1941 by Oberbefehlshaber der Kriegsmarine und Großadmiral 'Erich Raeder'. The badge was awarded for completing a successful long distance voyage by the crew of an auxiliary cruiser or supply ship. It could also be awarded for distinguished leadership while taking part in these voyages. Any person wounded during the voyage automatically received the award. The badge is a late war zinc construction example. The badge is nicely maker marked with 'R.S.' indicating production by the company of 'Rudolf Souval' from Wien (Vienna). The badge still retains most of its original finish. The badge is complete with its original pin but is unfortunately missing its catch, see photos. Still a nice original Auxiliary Cruiser war-badge in good condition!