Imperial German Totenkopf Skull & Crossbones Cap Badge, c.1910–18

Single-piece, die-stamped skull-and-crossbones badge in a darkened brass/bronze tone, executed with strong facial modeling, pierced eye slits, and integral crossed bones. The reverse retains its original style of long vertical pin/fastener soldered to the back, with the metal showing honest age toning and handling wear consistent with field or long-term storage.

The Totenkopf (death’s head) is one of the most iconic motifs of Imperial-era German military tradition, rooted in 18th–19th century “memento mori” symbolism and carried forward by elite formations—most famously Brunswick troops and select Prussian hussar units—where it signaled martial resolve, fatalism, and esprit de corps. By the pre-war and wartime period, the emblem had become a visually immediate shorthand for old-regime cavalry swagger and the hardened identity of units that prized tradition and distinction.

For collectors, this is the kind of compact, high-impact piece that displays exceptionally well: unmistakable profile, period-correct construction, and the sort of badge that bridges Imperial German militaria, headgear collecting, and early 20th-century insignia themes.

Condition is very good overall with attractive aged patina, light surface wear, and minor bends/irregularities to the reverse hardware consistent with age; no maker mark is visible in the provided views.