Germany, Heer. A Braunschweig Totenkopf Traditional Cap Badge, Kavallerie-Regiment 13

(Braunschweiger-Totenkopf Mützenabzeichen). Constructed of silvered zink, the obverse consisting of a Braunschweiger-style Totenkopf above crossed bones, the reverse with both attachment prongs intact, unmarked, measuring 28 mm (w) x 30 mm (h), with loss of silver finish evident, in very fine condition.

Footnote: First used by cavalry units of the Duchy of Braunschweig during the Napoleonic Wars, this insignia continued to be utilized by cavalry and reconnaissance units of the German military even after the period of motorization. During the Second World War, it became a symbolic insignia of reconnaissance units of Kavallerie-Regiment 13, and would be pinned between the eagle and wreath insignia of personnel visor caps.