I was wondering if anyone could provide some information on the Sunwheel Swastika? I am under the impression that this was the earliest version – prior to the static and rotating types. My thought is that it was around for only a very short period of time, and that its use does not seem to have been too widespread. Other than SA belt buckles, some tinnies, and various SS cultural items, I do not recall ever having seen it used on any other of the more common items, such as flags, armbands, etc. Thank you in advance for your input.
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Hi Dan,
Welcome among us! You propose an interesting question. IMO the earliest swastika used by the NSDAP was the static version, followed by the rotated design. These would be for standardized banners and the like. The sunwheel swastika was much more of a cultural design and it came into popular use by various folkish, nationalistic and anti-semitic groups which proliferated throughout Germany, Bavaria and Austria from early in the 20th century. As you mentioned, the NSDAP as well as the German military did find uses for it, but the rotated swastika was the major mainstay design.
Good to have you with us!
Br. James -
Hello Br. James,
Thank you for your warm welcome and your reply. I agree with your opinion that the static version came first, and was widely displayed as the Party symbol. In photos from the "early years," this is the style that is seen on flags, armbands, on vehicles, etc.
What threw me off track was that the Sunwheel was not seen anywhere, except on the SA belt buckles. In Angolia's belt buckle reference (revised), he mentions this on pp. 171-2. He states not to be too concerned with the order of introduction; but based on period catalogs from Assman & S&L, he believes the order to be Sunwheel, Static, Rotated.
So, the Sunwheel was significant concerning SA belt buckles; but never really moved outside of that area, except, as you have pointed out, for mainly cultural purposes. It makes sense to me now. Thank you again for your help.Comment
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I think another place to look for Sonnenrad designs is in tinnies. I'm not a collector of these but if you check out the 'Tinnie' thread you will find many.Comment
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