These small metal objects, typically affixed to clothing or accessories, served a variety of purposes during the period of 1939-1945 within the German Reich. They ranged from symbols of party affiliation and military service to commemorative tokens and badges representing membership in various organizations. Examples include the Iron Cross, various wound badges, and political emblems associated with the Nazi Party.
Their significance lies in their ability to provide insight into the socio-political landscape of the era. They reflect adherence to the dominant ideology, levels of participation in the war effort, and status within the national framework. Studying these artifacts provides valuable context for understanding the motivations and experiences of individuals living under the regime, as well as the regime’s methods of control and propaganda.
