Germany, Federal Republic. An Anti-Partisan Badge, by Rudolf Souval, Exhibition Example, c. 1960

(Bandenkampfabzeichen). Instituted January 30th, 1944. (Post May 1945 manufacture - c. 1960). Constructed of silvered tombac, the obverse consisting of an oval oak wreath joined together at the base by a raised skull and crossbones, overlaid by a vertical sword bearing a sunwheel-style swastika at the ricasso, in turn plunging  into a nest of vipers, the reverse plain, with a sheet metal hinge, vertical round wire catch, and sheet metal hinge, unmarked but displaying the typical manufacturing characteristics of a post-war manufactured example by Rudolf Souval in Vienna, measuring 49.0 mm (w) x 58.8 mm (l), weighing 48.92, a fine Exhibition Example of this award, in near mint condition. 

Footnote. Rudolf Souval was a predominant manufacturer of medals, awards, and badges during the Second World War. Following the end of the war in Europe in May 1945, Rudolf Souval continued manufacturing certain awards using wartime parts and dies for American G.I’s stationed in Europe. One characteristic of being made post-war by Souval is the signature catch used.