GERMAN DRA SPORTS BADGE IN BRONZE WW1 ORIGINAL

This is an original German Sports Badge (Deutschen Reichssportabzeichen) in excellent used condition. Die-struck, tombac, with an oak-leaf circular wreath and the letters DRA (Deutscher Reichs-Ausschuss) in the centre in a cutout design along with and bow at bottom.

The back has the manufacturer's maker marks: H. Wernstein Jena Lobstedt and also D.R.G.M. 33918. (German National Registered Design, 33918).

The sports badge was originally introduced in 1913 by the German Olympic Sports Federation as a way to encourage physical training. Originally issued in two types or grades, the bronze and the gold. Still in current usage the badge is issued in 3 classes, gold, silver and bronze. The bronze was awarded to males between 18 and 32 years that had the required physical training for 12 months.

During inter-war years it could also be given to the peacetime Reichswehr. In 1921 the badge was expanded to also include eligible females. In 1933 a change was made to the DRL badge which altered the design in the central lettering and in 1937 it was changed again to add a swastika. Starting in 1933 the DRL badge, though still issued, was mostly replaced by the SA Sports Badge which was a sports badge issued by the Nazi Party. Both badges could be earned and/or displayed by a German soldier who qualified.

This is a one of a kind item and you will receive the exact one photographed. This was picked up in Normandy this year for D-Day celebrations.