Description
Auxiliary Cruiser Badge by Juncker. This piece although not maker marked was made by C.E. Juncker of Berlin and the badges by this maker are usually unmarked although years ago I did have one with the maker stamping which is extremely uncommon. This piece is of the earliest quality made of tombac and then having a fire-gilt finish. This badge is in excellent condition with the majority of the original finish remaining having an area of wear as shown in the photos. Excellent and desirable. The globe is held on by a single reverse rivet.
The Kriegsmarine Auxiliary Cruiser Badge badge was instituted on April 24, 1941 by order of Grand Admiral Raeder to be given in recognition of feats demonstrated by the crews of armed merchant ships put to sea to harass Allied shipping. These ships would sail disguised as neutral cargo ships but were actually well armed and eventually took a huge toll on allied merchant vessels before most were eventually sunk themselves. The badge was awarded for participation in a successful voyage, demonstrating outstanding leadership abilities or being wounded during the course of a voyage. LH12258