Imperial German WWI Soldier’s Identification Tag (Erkennungsmarke) – Bau 311

This is an Imperial German identification tag (Erkennungsmarke) from World War I, issued to a soldier serving in Bau Bataillon 311 (Construction Battalion 311). These tags functioned as personal identification for soldiers and were designed to be broken in half upon death or capture, with one half remaining with the body and the other collected for military records.

Features & Markings:

• Material: Likely zinc or aluminum, which was commonly used for military ID tags during WWI due to durability and resistance to corrosion.
• Shape: Oval, the standard shape used in the German Army during this period.
• Markings:
  • “3./Bau 311” – This denotes the 3rd Company of Bau Bataillon 311, a construction and logistics unit responsible for tasks such as fortifications, roadwork, and infrastructure maintenance.
  • “112” – The soldier’s personal identification number, assigned within the battalion.
  • Horizontal Slots – These are pre-cut breaking lines allowing for the tag to be split in half.
• Suspension Cord:
  • The braided black-and-white cord appears original to the piece, a typical feature for wearing around the neck.

Historical Context:

• Bau battalions were crucial to the German military, supporting the war effort by constructing and repairing roads, bridges, and defensive positions.
• These units often operated in occupied territories or near the front lines, ensuring infrastructure remained intact for troop movements.
• Unlike combat units, construction battalions included specialized engineers and skilled laborers drafted into military service.

Condition & Authenticity:

• The tag exhibits natural aging, patina, and wear, consistent with original period use.
• The stamping remains clear and legible, an essential factor in assessing authenticity.
• The cord appears original, which adds to its historical value.

Collector’s Value:

• WWI German identification tags are less common than WWII versions, making them a valuable piece of history.
• Items from Bau Bataillons are particularly interesting due to their non-combat but vital role in the war effort.
• This piece would be of interest to collectors of Imperial German militaria, WWI history, and military documentation.

Display & Preservation:

• Best kept in a dry environment to prevent further oxidation.
• Displaying it in a shadow box alongside documentation about Bau Bataillons would enhance its historical context.

This authentic WWI German soldier’s ID tag serves as a tangible connection to the logistical and engineering efforts that sustained the German military during the Great War.