German WWII Horseman Award in Silver-This is the Deutsches Reiter-Abzeichen (German Horseman's Badge). Instituted around May 1930 by the German National Federation for the Breeding and Testing of Thoroughbreds. The Rider's Badge was later sanctioned by Hitler as a national award. It was one of the very few badges from this era that never had any swastika appearing on it. The badge was designed by W. Heitinger. This is example has the encircled letter 'R' for 'Reiter' ('Rider'). The bronze class grade was awarded for activities such as racing, and the silver for achievements in equestrian sports, such as dressage, jumping and field work. This example is only slightly worn and is nicely very nicely toned. The pin functions as intended. The reverse of the badge is marked with L. Chr. Lauer Nürnberg-Berlin and gesetzlich geschützt(patent pending). Perfect for the left breast of your parade dress tunic!A handsome looking badge.