Germany, NSDAP. A Golden Party Badge, Large Version by Deschler & Sohn, to Josef Laßnig

(Goldenes Parteiabzeichen). Constructed of gilded bronze with multi-coloured enamels, the obverse consisting of a circular oak leaf wreath, joined together at the bottom by ribbon, surrounding a white enameled medallion, bearing a central black mobile swastika, situated within a red enameled ring bearing a gilt inscription of “NATIONAL-SOZIALISTISCHE D.A.P.” situated within an additional narrow white enameled ring, the reverse with a sunken rivet securing the medallion in position, with a barrel hinge and flattened vertical pinback meeting a flat wire catch, stamped with an issue number of “82054”, otherwise unmarked but demonstrating the characteristics of manufacture by Deschler & Sohn, Munich, measuring 30.52 mm in diameter, weighing 13.6 grams, demonstrating some flecking to the enamels with a small chip to the edge of the ten o’clock position, in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: Josef Laßnig was born on 25 April 1891 in Sankt Marein im Lavanttal, Carinthia, Austria-Hungary. He joined the NSDAP on 27 February 1928 as member #82054. He was highly active politically, holding positions in local party cells, the administration of the Deutsche Arbeitsfront (German Labour Front/DAF), and the Sturmabteilung (SA). Records note that his wife, Anna-Maria, later joined the party as member #361819. The badge is accompanied by facsimile records further documenting Laßnig’s service.