UBB.threads Forums Uniform & Accessories Belts and Buckles Forum SS "MAJOR ERROR" BELT BUCKLE RZM 36/38

This Just came in the shop and I have never seen THIS amount of error on a belt buckle. It has been issued came with a belt (unmarked), but at least a 1/4 inch error and restrike. Note the swastika with wreath pattern mixed in and the inner plain circle with the remaining rope pattern. The motto is chunky due to the wreath area being struck out. The top is still plainly visible with the full wings and eagle head. This just goes on to prove that pieces USED in service just like others countries were not perfect. This is the molded aluminum 1938 dated type.

Here are 2 of the back with the wings and the swastika with the errors as well. Most of the time I hear of how perfect EVERY thing of the SS and German RZM items are, but like productions lines in other countries even this can slip by (probrably a Monday during Octoberfest). I noticed one in the belt buckles book being a crooked error, but I think this one REALLY takes it farther. Just thought I would share it before I place it for sale on my website. It would be neat if anyone else has some major errors to show as well. PS. It is not painted it is the dull aluminum color but just the remaining dulling on surfaces and shiney on the edges form wear. I know a couple look like paint and wanted to clarify that.

Really something! Thanks for posting.

most unusual buckle,,,must have had an off day at the factory

Inspectors must have been at Okoberfest. Unusual for an error of this size to get through.

Anyone else have buckles with errors ?

Dave

I am sure that even bad examples were pressed into service near the end..even from the reject bin..

I remember talking with one of the many German veterans who used to attend the Etobicoke Military Show, and he told me that when he was called up, he had been issued an over stamped 1st World War buckle that was horrid looking, and that he sought to replace it in the field at the first opportunity...it is amazing that even in industrialized nations that must produce millions of individual items for its fighting soldiers, that such items can become scarce on the ground.

Very nice example! Just two notes:
- Those aluminum SS buckles were not cast but die stamped. You got such evidence here at least.
- There was no inspectors. Once a buckle was produced, defective in design or not, if it could be worn it was issued. Even prototypes and rejected prototypes were later issued to fighting troops since Germans did not feel the need to waste material.
Can someone tell me who owns this buckle now?

Very Cool!
Bob