This is a beautiful 'Verwundeten Abzeichen in Schwarz' (Wounded Badge in Black). With the outbreak of World War II on September 1, 1939, Hitler reinstated the Verwundeten Abzeichen (Wounded Badge). A modified version of the First World War model, the old helmet type was replaced by the new Model 1935 type. The medal was awarded to all military personnel and later (from March 1943) also to civilians wounded as a result of enemy action. The Verwundeten Abzeichen in Black was the lowest in a series of three and was awarded for one or two wounds. This example is made of brass and is non-magnetic.