German WWII Grossdeutschland Leutnant's Shoulder Boards

This is a service-used pair of stitch-in style shoulder boards for a Leutnant serving with the Grossdeutschland Division. The boards feature the pink waffenfarbe underlay, designating the wearer as belonging to a Panzer or anti-tank unit within this elite formation.

The exterior silver wire shows a degree of oxidisation consistent with field wear and age. The intertwined GD cyphers are present on each board; these have been secured using soft wires passed through the body of the boards and over the cyphers, a period modification likely performed after the original attachment pins had sheared off. Examination of the material beneath the cyphers reveals clear impressions and consistent ageing, confirming that these insignias have been in place for a significant duration. The gilt finish on the cyphers has largely faded to the base metal.

These boards represent a tangible piece of history from one of the most famous combat units of the period. They show the characteristic signs of being part of a combat uniform, making them a significant addition to a collection of Panzer or Grossdeutschland insignia.

Ref; 95690