WWII German Krim (Crimea) Campaign Sheild 1941-1942

Identification

• Name: Krim Shield (German: Krimschild)
• Country: Germany (Wehrmacht)
• Date Instituted: July 25, 1942
• Material: Stamped steel or zinc with bronze finish
• Design features:
  
• German eagle clutching a wreath and swastika at the top
• Dates 1941 – 1942 on either side
• Map of the Crimean Peninsula with the word “KRIM”
• Size: Approx. 52 × 62 mm

The shield was awarded to German Army, Luftwaffe, and Kriegsmarine personnel who fought in the Crimea campaign against Soviet forces between September 1941 and July 1942. Soldiers qualified if they served at least 90 days in the campaign, were wounded there, or participated in major combat operations. 

About 250,000 were awarded, making it the most common of the German campaign shields. 

How it was worn

• Sewn onto the upper left sleeve of the uniform on a cloth backing that matched the branch (army, navy, or Luftwaffe).  
• Many surviving examples are found without the cloth backing, like yours.

Condition notes from photos

• Appears to be zinc construction with worn finish
• Mounting prongs present on back (some bent)
• Missing original cloth backing
• Typical age wear but still good detail