Germany, Wehrmacht. A Close Combat Clasp, Bronze Grade, By Friedrich Linden

(Nahkampfspange in Bronze). Constructed of bronzed zink, the obverse consisting of a central square oak leaf wreath, topped by a Wehrmacht eagle clutching a mobile swastika, situated above a crossed bayonet and stick grenade, overlaying a replacement bronze backplate, flanked on each side by four sun rays and four oak leaves with acorns, the reverse with a barrel hinge and horizontal banjo-style pinback meeting a round wire catch, designer marked “W.E. PEEKHAUS, BERLIN” and maker marked with the logo of Friedrich Linden, Lüdenscheid, measuring 97.15 mm (w) x 25.80 mm (h), weighing 34.5 grams, demonstrating total loss of bronze finish and consistent oxidation throughout, in addition to the replacement of the central backplate with an ill-fitted and materially-incorrect substitute, a second pattern Friedrich Linden example in fair condition.