Cased Heeresbergfuhrer Badge

[Gunther Beckman]

I have an opportunity to acquire a cased example of the Heeresbergfuhrer badge. I am seeking knowledgable members to help me ascertain authenticity. There is very little reference material available. The badge is Deschler & Sohn, Munchen marked as is the red leatherette case. I have images but do not know how to post them here. If you think you can help me, here is my personal email address:

azkid42@cableone.net

[Ludwig]

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I´ll post them for you.

[Ludwig]

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Here we go!

[Ludwig]

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[Ludwig]

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[jacques]

I never have the opportunity to hand one, but this one does not match to the "originals" I have in my files. the reverse marked piece is too large compared to "known" originals, should be gilded and not silvered. the letters "Heeresbergführer" looks fat.
I hope that other collectors will give their opinion.

[MJC]

A quick observation about these badges in general, not this badge in particular, is that according to Bill Stump, there are similar post-war examples that are also originals, just not original to the pre May 1945 conflict.

All wartime examples that I have seen, and the two that I have held, have been gilded.

Look forward to comments from more experienced collectors.

M.

[rkdek]

I don't like the rivets at all.
Like said above, the Heeresbergführer badge is normally gilded.

[Gunther Beckman]

One response I received via eMail

Hello Gunther;

Im sad to say that what is being offered to you is NOT an authentic WW2 era Pre-1945 Heeresbergfuhrer Badge, but what I believe to be a mid 50s issue to the Bundeswehr. All WW2 examplars are gilded in gold, not silver and have a higher quality of workmanship. Authentic Heeresbergfuhrer badges were authorized in August 1936, and were to be worn by only those who completed metrics in mountain climbing , sking, and Orienteering and survival in the Mountains. It was not an easy badge to earn, and the skills had to be maintained regularly to earn the right to maintain the Bergfuhrer title. Those who actually earned the title justifiably proud of their awards, and I guess it could be said it is one of the true first "Special Force" type of awards. Only 352 were actually awarded during the period of the NSDAP, and few examples of good quality survived intact due to the fact the enamel chipped easy during the harsh field conditions. Those badges that remain intact were usually never worn upon being awarded, or were used only on dress uniforms. As the badges were designed and made so early, the standard of craftsmanship is unique, solid, and trully magnificient. It is without doubt, IMO, the MOST handsome badge in the Wehrmacht! It took me 5 years to find an authentic piece, and I jump with glee everytime I look at it..LOL! ( I Guess us collectors are a pathetic lot!)

Keep looking Bud,

[Gunther Beckman]

Thank You !!

I would like to thank all of you for your valued opinions. I have informed the seller that I will NOT be buying this item from him. I will also send him the link to this forum thread. Hopefully, he will dispose of this item properly..........

All the best.......

[FestungSpanien]

Hi
This one is being sold at Ebay right now
Take a look at Ebay item number 6266038261
How many bucks would this post-war example deserve?
Regards
Ace