Inter-War (Nazi Germany) 1934 Hitler Youth Proficiency Badge (in Black) - Authentic Is

The Leistungsabzeichen der HJ, (Proficiency Badge of the HJ) was instituted as the first Hitler Youth award.

Founded by Reich Youth Leader Balder von Schirach and instituted 1 June 1934, it was awarded to members of the Hitler Youth who demonstrated proficiency in physical fitness and political knowledge. Its intent was to incentivize Hitler Youth members to increase their proficiency in military oriented athletics, academics, field exercises, and shooting. Recipients were chosen and approved by Balder von Schirach.

It came in three classes, Silver, Bronze, & Black. Within each class was an associated grade of proficiency (A, B, or C). The reverse was (infrequently) stamped with the grade of proficiency.

The classes were awarded based on the member's age.
Silver: Awarded to age 17 & older
Bronze: Awarded to 16 year olds
Black: Awarded to 15 year olds

HISTORY:
Hitler Youth members were issued a Leistungsbuch (Qualification book) to record their achievements. This certified their right to wear the badge when awarded. When first authorized, the badges were worn on the left breast pocket of the service uniform but was later adjusted for wear on the right breast pocket.

REQUIREMENTS FOR AWARD:
1st Test (athletics and gymnastics) - boys had to participate in a 100 meter spring, a 3000 meter run, long jump, hammer-throwing, shot-put, swimming, and horizontal bar exercises.
2nd Test (field exercises) - map reading, route marching, fire orders, estimating distances, the art of camouflage, and firing from a prone position.
3rd Test (political knowledge) - boys had to have a decent knowledge of history and National Socialist ideology.

DESCRIPTION:
Constructed of Blackened Aluminum with a vertical pin-back.

Obverse: Inscription reads, in runic script, "Für Leistungen in der HJ" (For proficiency in the Hitler Youth). Consists of an upward pointing arrow (Tyr-rune) with a circle superimposed to it, embossed with a mobile swastika.

Reverse: RZM (Reichszeugmeisterei) stamp & maker marked “M1/36” w/serial number “36605".

Note: Multiple in stock...Shipped item may not be exactly as appears in the photos - may contain slight variation in color/standard age wear.
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Inter-War 1934 (Nazi Germany)
Hitler Youth Proficiency Badge
(In Black) - Authentic Issue

$125.00 (Firm)

Instituted: 1 June 1934 -
By Reich Youth Leader
Balder von Schirach

Awarded to Hitler Youth who
demonstrated proficiency in
physical fitness & political knowledge
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