Imperial German U-Boat War Badge (U-Boots-Kriegsabzeichen) – WWI Era, “G” Marked Maker Variant

This is a World War I Imperial German U-Boat War Badge (U-Boots-Kriegsabzeichen), a striking and historically significant decoration awarded to German Navy personnel who served on submarines during the First World War. The badge takes the form of a horizontal oval wreath composed of detailed laurel leaves, surmounted by the Imperial Crown of Germany, and features a central depiction of a surfaced submarine in bold relief.

This particular example is constructed from brass with a matte gold-toned finish. The reverse retains its original vertical pinback assembly and is stamped with the single letter “G,” denoting the maker—believed to correspond with a lesser-documented but period-original badge manufacturer. The presence of this mark increases the collector interest due to the rarity of wartime-issue variants outside the more commonly encountered manufacturers such as Walter & Henlein.

Close inspection of the photographs confirms high-fidelity detailing in the wreath's veining, the U-boat's conning tower, and the prominent crown—all characteristics consistent with authentic wartime production. This badge would have been issued as a wearer's decoration beginning in 1918, when the award was officially instituted by Kaiser Wilhelm II to recognize the hazardous and often deadly service of the U-boat crews.

Condition: Very Fine. Retains original detail with a pleasing patina. Some surface wear from age and handling. Pinback assembly is intact and functional. “G” maker’s mark clearly visible.

Date Range: Circa 1918

Display Suggestions: This badge is best displayed mounted in a shadow box or framed alongside related Imperial Navy artifacts, such as a photograph of a U-boat crew or a sailor’s cap tally from a submarine unit. It is a highlight piece for any collection focused on German naval history, World War I decorations, or the evolution of military awards.