Germany, Imperial. A First World War Heer EM/NCO’s Belt with Wartime Souvenir Buttons

(Heer Gürtel mit Schnalle für Mannschaften). A unique First World War Heer EM/NCO’s belt and buckle. The former is constructed of pressed black leather, and completes at one end with an integral bronze clip secured to the belt by a loop fastened in place with dual magnetic metal rivets. The opposite end features a reverse tongue perforated with six sets of dual eyelets for an adjustable fit. Notably, 12 buttons are secured to the belt with a magnetic metal wire that has been secured to the reverse, meeting the buttons’ lugs which are set through perforations made in the leather. Constructed of bronze, zink, and magnetic metal, the buttons include examples from the Imperial German and Bavarian armies, as well as Austria-Hungary, Russia, and France. Unmarked, this customized commemorative belt measures 40 mm (w) x 1120 mm (l). It demonstrates age-appropriate desiccation and material fatigue, but is in an overall very fine condition. Attached is a matching Heer EM/NCO’s buckle, constructed of partially silvered bronze. The obverse bears a central raised crown, set within a ribbed ring bearing an inscription of “GOTT MIT UNS” (“GOD WITH US”). The reverse features a loop and swivel attachment claws. Unmarked, it measures 60 mm (w) x 46 mm (h). Minor scratching is evident, but it remains in a near extremely fine condition.