Wehrmacht Unterfeldwebel M40 Infantry Shoulder Boards

Elevate your collection with these authentic Wehrmacht Unterfeldwebel M40 infantry shoulder boards, a meticulously crafted WWII German military collectible. Made from feldgrau wool with silver tresse, these shoulder boards represent the rank insignia for the Unterfeldwebel, the second-lowest NCO rank in the Wehrmacht’s infantry. Below, we explore their historical significance, material composition, and value for collectors and historians.

Historical Background

The Wehrmacht Unterfeldwebel M40 infantry shoulder boards were worn by Unterfeldwebel-ranked non-commissioned officers in the Wehrmacht’s Heer (army branch) from 1935 to 1945. The infantry, the backbone of the German military, fought in key campaigns like the invasion of Poland (1939), the Battle of Stalingrad (1942–1943), and Normandy (1944), while also handling frontline labor such as transporting supplies. The Unterfeldwebel rank, equivalent to a sergeant, was critical for leading small units and maintaining discipline. The feldgrau wool and silver tresse denoted this rank on the M40 uniform. Crafted under strict Wehrmacht standards, these shoulder boards reflect the infantry’s pivotal role in the Third Reich’s military, making them a significant artifact for WWII studies.

Material & Condition

These Wehrmacht Unterfeldwebel M40 infantry shoulder boards are crafted from feldgrau wool with silver tresse, measuring 10 cm by 4.5 cm and weighing 18g per pair. Designed for sewing onto M40 infantry uniforms, the feldgrau wool provides a durable base, while the silver tresse adds a striking, authoritative contrast, signifying NCO rank. Authentic period pieces may show slight wear, such as wool fading or tresse tarnishing, with subtle stitching variations indicating wartime production. Collectors should distinguish originals from reproductions, which may use synthetic materials or lack the intricate tresse work.

Collector’s Insight

The Wehrmacht Unterfeldwebel M40 infantry shoulder boards are a rare piece of Third Reich memorabilia, highly valued for their connection to the Wehrmacht’s infantry NCOs and their detailed craftsmanship. The feldgrau wool and silver tresse make them a focal point for collectors of WWII German military collectibles, particularly those interested in infantry history and rank insignia. Their historical significance spans key WWII campaigns, appealing to enthusiasts of Nazi Germany’s ground forces.

These shoulder boards are ideal for military historians, museum curators, and reenactors seeking accurate uniform components for educational displays or living-history events. Given their sensitive historical context, collectors must handle these artifacts with respect, using them to educate about WWII’s complexities rather than glorifying the associated ideology. For preservation, store the shoulder boards in an acid-free, archival-quality sleeve or case to protect against moisture, UV light, and tresse tarnishing. Displaying them in a museum-quality shadow box with historical documentation enhances their educational value, offering a tangible link to the era of the Third Reich’s infantry forces.