317 Italian 2nd World War wearable commemorative medal for the members of the 1st Volunteer Battalion of the Waffen SS - Unternehmen Eiche.
Italian manufacture of tinted tombac. On the obverse large SS runes, on the side of each 2 skulls with dagger in the mouth (the emblem of the Black Shirts). With surrounding text: "1° BATTAGLIONE BENITO MVSSOLINI FREIWILLINGEN BATAILLON OF ARMS SS .
Back with representation of the cap badge of the Bersaglieri, swastika and in the center the flame of the PNF (Fascist Party of Italy). The text reads: " 8 SETT. 1943 XXI SEMPRE FEDELE AL DUCE E AL FUHERER".
Complete with original burgundy red ribbon for the former members of the Bersaglieri.
The medal was made by the company Stefano Johnson - Milano in September 1943 in an edition of only 50 pieces. Interesting is the misspelling on the obverse "Freiwillingen" (Volunteers) and on the reverse "Fuherer", which all medals have.
Misspellings are very customary with Italian Bravery Medals "Al Valore Militare" awarded to Germans and rather the rule than the exception.
Extremely rare, the 1st time in over 30 years on sale with us. There are no more 10 pieces known worldwide.