German WWII Close Combat Clasp in Bronze-This is a handsome close combat clasp. The bronze finish on this pin is very good, as are the details. The back plate is a bronze tone that matches the finish of this badge. This is very nicely marked on the reverse for Ausf A.G.M.u.K. of Gablonz. The name and location of the designer, W.E. Peekhaus, is seen to the left. This badge has lost its catch, but other than that the pin and hinge function properly. This would still make a beautiful display on your tunic. Despite the catch missing, this pin is excellent.
History: The Close Combat Clasp series of awards were introduced on November 25th, 1942, for award to personnel who fought in hand-to-hand combat situations unsupported by armor. The Clasp was issued in three grades of Bronze, Silver and Gold with each successive grade signifying more days spent in hand-to-hand or close combat. Criteria for award of the clasps consisted of fifteen days of hand-to-hand combat for bestowal of the bronze clasp, thirty days of hand-to-hand combat for bestowal of the silver clasp and fifty days of hand-to-hand combat for bestowal of the gold clasp. There was also a prescribed, combat to time served ratio, enabling long serving personnel to be eligible for award of a clasp.