U Boat Combat Clasp in Bronze ( U-Boots-Frontspange in Bronze)

An excellent example of the U Boat Combat Clasp in Bronze ( U-Boots-Frontspange in Bronze) showing just the right amount of service use, free from damage and with the pin, hinge and closure catch without damage.  

The award was instituted on 15 May 1944 to bring the U-boat force in line with other branches of the German armed forces, all of which had a similar award to recognize valour. There were no specified merits for earning the award, the decoration was based on the recommendations of the U-boat commander and subject to approval by Karl Dönitz. Awards were often due to the number of patrols completed or demonstrations of valour in combat. The clasp was worn on the upper left breast.

Constructed in die struck zinc base with a  bronzed washed and lacquer coated, the obverse depicts a U-Boat  surrounded by a laurel leaf wreath tied together at the bottom with two crossed broad swords  below a Kriegsmarine eagle (with outstretched wings clutching a swastika in its talons). To either side of the eagle/wreath is a six piece oak leaf and two piece acorn cluster. The full back reverse is marked: “Entwurf Peekhaus” (designer) and “Ausf. Schwerin Berlin 68” (maker mark).

A rare example which is complemented by next listing of the correct certificate for the award, available separately.