The Hitler Youth Proficiency Badge

Average Price:

$100 to $300

(The cost varies based on the medal’s historical significance, the recipient’s background, and the condition of the medal)

Time Period: Nazi Germany (Interwars Period, World War II)
Institution: June 1934
Country: Germany

The Hitler Youth Proficiency Badge (or Leistungsabzeichen der Hitler Jugend in German) was established in June 1934 to recognize Hitler Youth members who demonstrated proficiency in athletics, field craft, and basic political knowledge.

The badge was awarded in different versions based on the age and achievement level of the recipient. It was presented in silver for boys over 17 and in bronze for 16-year-olds. Members of the Jungvolk initially received a black version until 1937 when a distinct Jungvolk badge was introduced.

By the end of 1943, a significant number of these badges had been awarded:

Bronze Badges: 103,061
Silver Badges: 217,093

These figures highlight the widespread implementation of this award within the Hitler Youth organization as a means to encourage and reward physical and ideological training.

The Hitler Youth Proficiency Badge Design

The obverse of the badge features a swastika encircled by a ring inscribed with ‘Für Leistungen in der HJ’ (For achievements in the HJ) in runic-style script. This design is set against a large tiwaz rune.

The reverse of the badge is numbered and equipped with a pin for attachment to the breast pocket.

Other Hitler Youth Badges

The variety of Hitler Youth badges arose from the organization’s desire to recognize different levels of achievement, service, and merit among its members. These included: