Thuringen Gau-Ehrenzeichen

[Matthew]

On the other hand, here is one of the pages of the original 1933 list.
A list that is said to show the names of recipients of the award that was given out to the 'Thousand Oldest Warriors' of Gau Thuringen. Gau residents with unbroken NSDAP membership, the whole nine, yada, yada, yada...
But it lists a lucky recipient from South Africa. Not being a resident of Thuringen, the only way he could receive such a decoration was if it was honorary.

So... 1000 Alte Kampfers or 'mostly Old Warriors with some unqualified but otherwise deserving recipients thrown in'?

cheers

Matt

P.S. The recipient mentioned here or rather his badge (926) survived and is in collectors hands.

P.S.S. How long before we see a badge that will surface named/numbered to one of the three chums from Munich?

[Matthew]

I should've added that I think that ALL of the badges awarded that day in 1933 in Erfurt followed the same suit in terms of features (or lack of them when compared to subsequent awards). Having examined few two digit numbered pins and couple from upwards of 950 range- all follow the exact same characteristics in terms of their construction. Same goes for regular qualified recipients as well as those who appeared to qualify as honorary ones.
While it is possible that those recipients from 1933 wore their pins featureless, I have seen few that were not only cased but exhibited most of their protective lacquer which by default would prevent any wear to the badge's lower layers.

I suppose it is possible that if a badge under 1k was to be lost and replaced in say 1940 it could exhibit both- number under 1k and frosting and polishing but can't say I have seen one of those...not to say they're not out there..

Have a great weekend everyone!

Matt

[ErichS]

All good information on this important decoration and my personal favorite Gau badge.