Original German WWII period Reichsluftschutzbund (RLB) membership badge, featuring the distinctive RLB emblem with a stylized spread-wing eagle above a swastika within the organization’s shield.
The Reichsluftschutzbund (RLB) was the German civil air-defense organization responsible for educating and organizing the civilian population in air-raid protection and preparedness.
This example is manufactured in metal and retains an attractive darkened period finish. The obverse displays well-defined feather details throughout the eagle and a clearly rendered central RLB emblem. Age-related wear and patina are visible throughout and give the badge an appealing period appearance.
The reverse retains its original horizontal pin attachment. Below the pin is the marking “GES. GESCH.” (Gesetzlich Geschützt – “legally protected”). Directly beneath/alongside this marking is the manufacturer’s mark “DH”.
The DH maker mark is particularly interesting, as the same manufacturer marking is also encountered on other Third Reich-period badges, including examples associated with the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games. I would, however, leave the manufacturer identified simply as “DH” rather than assigning a company name without stronger documentation.
The badge remains in good period-used condition, showing expected finish wear, oxidation and patina while retaining its complete pin assembly. Please refer closely to all photographs for exact condition.
A desirable maker-marked RLB badge and an attractive original example for a Luftschutz, civil-defense or Third Reich organization collection.
Period: WWII / Third Reich
Country: Germany
Organization: Reichsluftschutzbund (RLB)
Type: Membership Badge
Maker Mark: DH
Additional Marking: GES. GESCH.
Construction: Metal
Attachment: Horizontal pin
Condition: Good period-used condition with age-related wear, patina and finish loss as pictured
