Army Officers Silk Woven Breast Eagle 1939

Elevate your historical collection with this Army Officers Silk Woven Breast Eagle 1939, a meticulously crafted WWII German military collectible. Made with a silver thread eagle on a dark green silk background, this breast eagle was worn by Wehrmacht officers during the early stages of World War II (1939–1945). Below, we explore its historical significance, material composition, and value for collectors and historians.

Historical Background

The Army Officers Silk Woven Breast Eagle 1939 was a prestigious insignia for officers leading Wehrmacht units during campaigns like the Invasion of Poland (1939) or the Battle of France (1940). Sewn onto the breast of officer uniforms, it symbolized leadership and authority in the German Army during the Third Reich’s early offensive phase. Crafted under RZM standards, the silver thread on dark green silk denoted officer rank, making it a significant artifact for WWII studies.

Material & Condition

This Army Officers Silk Woven Breast Eagle 1939 features a silver thread eagle on a dark green silk background, measuring 6 cm by 5.5 cm and weighing 1g. Designed for sewing onto Wehrmacht officer uniforms, the silk ensures lightweight durability, while the silver thread provides a rich contrast. Authentic period pieces may show slight wear, such as thread fraying or silk fading, with consistent weaving indicating wartime production. Collectors should distinguish originals from reproductions, which may use synthetic materials or lack the precision of wartime craftsmanship.

Collector’s Insight

The Army Officers Silk Woven Breast Eagle 1939 is a rare piece of Third Reich memorabilia, valued for its connection to Wehrmacht officer ranks and its early-war design. The silver thread on dark green silk makes it a focal point for collectors of WWII German military collectibles, particularly those interested in officer insignia and early Wehrmacht artifacts. Its historical significance lies in its association with the Third Reich’s officer corps during WWII’s opening campaigns, appealing to enthusiasts of German military history.

This breast eagle is ideal for military historians, museum curators, and reenactors seeking accurate uniform components for educational displays or living-history events. Given its sensitive historical context, collectors must handle this artifact with respect, using it to educate about WWII’s complexities rather than glorifying the associated regime. For preservation, store the eagle in an acid-free, archival-quality sleeve or case to protect against moisture, UV light, and silk degradation. Displaying it in a museum-quality shadow box with historical documentation enhances its educational value, offering a tangible link to the era of Nazi Germany’s military leadership.