German WWII U-Boat Badge (U-Boot Kriegabzeichen) by F.O.-This is a mid-war zinc example of a u-boat badge. Most of the light gold finish is intact but it is very faint. This has striking details. The hinge, needle pin and round wire catch work as intended. The initials "F.O." are seen above the catch indicating this was produced by Friendrich Orth. This is in very good condition overall!
History: The U-Boat badge was introduced in October of 1939 and came in one version only, in gold. They were often presented by the Submarine Commanders, and could be awarded to all Officers, NCOs, and Crew Members who serve on submarines directed against the enemy. The qualification of the award was that an individual had to prove themselves on two or more sorties. If a wound was sustained during a sortie, the Commander could waive the number requirement. Once awarded, it was to be worn, during duty or off-duty hours, on the service jacket, blue and white jacket, mess jacket or pullover jacket.