Original German WWII Heer (Army) Issued Krim Shield

Original German WWII Heer (Army) Issued Krim Shield-The Krim Shield (German: Krimschild) was a World War II German campaign award instituted on 25 July 1942. It was awarded to members of the Wehrmacht, Luftwaffe, and Kriegsmarine under the command of Field Marshal Erich von Manstein who participated in the campaign against Soviet forces in the Crimea between 21 September 1941 and 4 July 1942. With approximately 250,000 issued, it was the most widely distributed of all German campaign shields.This example is constructed of stamped sheet metal with a bronze finish and still retains most of its original coloration, showing only minor age and wear from storage. There is a small break in the Crimea peninsula area of the shield, though it does not reach the edge and does not detract from display.The design features a German eagle clutching a laurel wreath with a swastika at the top, flanked by the campaign dates '1941' and '1942.' Below this is a raised depiction of the Crimean peninsula, emblazoned with the word 'KRIM.' The shield is affixed to a field-gray wool backing, and the reverse retains its original off-white paper backing—both of which remain intact and in excellent condition.This piece appears to be unissued, but shows age and is in very good condition.