Rare Boxed 1st Class Luftschutz Medal
Price: $1495
BUY / RESERVE THIS ITEMDescription: “Luftschutz-Ehrenzeichen 1.Stufe”, type II. This textbook Deumer cross retains nearly all of its obverse gilt factory finish and much of its reverse; consisting of a double-sided stylized gilt cross, the obverse bearing a mobile swastika circumscribed by an inscription of “FÜR VERDIENSTE IM LUFTSCHUTZ”, the reverse bearing a date of “1938” measuring 40 mm across, weighing 23.0 grams; medal comes correctly pin-back ribbon mounted in its original box of issuance; box constructed of a rigid card stock frame with a dark faux grey leather exterior, the lid bearing an inscription of “LUFTSCHUTZ-EHRENZEICHEN 1. STUFE”, the interior with a slotted, gray flocked medal bed; measuring 45 mm (w) x 100 mm (l) x 20 mm (h), a super rare matching set.
Background: The Air Defense Honor Badge 1st Class (Luftschutz-Ehrenzeichen 1. Stufe) represents one of the rarest decorations of National Socialist Germany. This high-ranking medal of honor was awarded in recognition of exceptional merit in civilian air defense. Instituted January 30, 1938, this medal is extremely rare; only about 150 to 200 total awards were presented during World War II. Eligible personnel were members of the Luftschutz (Air Raid Precautions), police, factory guards, and fire fighters. The awarding of the Air Defense Honor Badge 1st Class was subject to extremely strict criteria. It was only awarded to individuals who had distinguished themselves through extraordinary achievements in air defense over an extended period, or who had rendered outstanding service during air raids at risk of their own lives. The extremely low number of awards—only approximately 150 pieces throughout the decoration’s entire existence—underscores its extraordinary rarity. By comparison, the 2nd Class was awarded significantly more frequently, with exact numbers reaching several thousand. However, the 1st Class remained reserved for the most absolutely outstanding merits, making it one of the rarest awards of the Third Reich—even rarer than many high military orders. The badge was manufactured in various material executions. The described fine zinc execution (type II) represents the majority production method of the still few total awards.
