Original Item: Only One Available. This is an original example of a very desirable Deutsche Luftwaffe Ärmelbinde (Armband). This pattern of armband was issued to air crew for use if they had to bail out of an aircraft, to identify them to German units (or hopefully friendly civilians or police) on the ground. The armband is made from yellow cotton fabric, with the edges are finished with white machine stitching, and is factory sewn together in the back, as these were issued.

Condition of the armband is unissued, with just the slightest bit of age toning and wear. It has the correct Luftwaffe Eagle over DEUTSCHE LUFTWAFFE stamped onto the side of the armband. On the inside, the black ink has soaked through the fabric and is visible in reverse, a typical trait of period printing. Measures approximately 15 1/2 x 3 7/8 inches, and is sewn together in the back.

An excellent unissued example of a rare armband, ready to display as part of a pilot or aircrew collection!

Nearly every military, civil, political and paramilitary organization in existence during the Third Reich used armbands. Armbands were worn on military and civilian uniforms and also on civilian clothes, from suit jackets to work clothing. They were used to denote membership in organizations, to indicate a specific role or function of the bearer, and as insignia of rank. Many organizations would change the design of their armbands over time, which added to the variety produced. These were manufactured in countless variations, ranging from simple printed bands to elaborately hand-embroidered pieces of the highest quality. Some NSDAP armbands were worn by all members of large organizations and were made by the millions. Others were intended for use at a specific time and place and were unique. Many types were made in very limited numbers. Some bore metal insignia or special identifiers that indicated the wearer’s rank, unit affiliation, or nationality. Armbands were sometimes but not always marked with ink stamps by the issuing authorities.