Reichsarbeitsdienst (RAD) Traditions Cap Badge – Arbeitsgau I

This is an original Reichsarbeitsdienst (RAD) Traditions Cap Badge, worn by members of Arbeitsgau I (Labor District 1) of the RAD. Traditions badges of this type were issued to specific labor districts; notably, only 17 of the 40 Arbeitsgaue were assigned distinctive insignia, making examples such as this comparatively scarce.

The Reichsarbeitsdienst (RAD) was officially established on June 26, 1935, as Germany’s compulsory national labor service. It was preceded by the Freiwilliger Arbeitsdienst (FAD), or Voluntary Labour Service. The RAD played a role in economic programs, unemployment reduction, ideological training, and the broader militarization of the population during the period.

The badge features the district-specific RAD design executed in clear relief. The reverse is marked “PAULMANN & CRONE LÜDENSCHEID,” indicating manufacture by Paulmann & Crone of Lüdenscheid, a known period producer, and retains its original attachment hardware. This cap badge is an authentic example of Third Reich–period labor service insignia and is suitable for collectors specializing in RAD items, regional labor district insignia, and German historical memorabilia, as well as for historical reference within a broader pre–World War II collection.

Specifications

• Material: Silver
• Origin: Germany
• Era: WW2
• Condition: Condition is consistent with age and use, showing light surface wear but retaining clear detail and strong overall presentation. Enamel finish remains in good condition. 

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Item Location: Awards and Medals Case