The award was authorized by Himmler after consultation with the Chief of the SS Hauptamt, SS-Obergruppenfuhrer Gotlob Berger. The Germanic Proficiency Badge shown below, illustrates the Germanische Leistungrune bronze grade. The design was geared to appeal the Germanic SS. The badge shows the Sun Wheel in the background with the Siegrunes (Victory Runes) superimposed in front.
The Sun Wheel or movable Swastika was the symbol used by the Wiking Division and the 3rd Germanic SS Panzer Corps. The construction of the badge was made of cast copper plated zinc with a white silver wash. The Siegrunes are black enameled die- struck tombak with silver plated edges. Construction is typically German of excellent quality. The Sun Wheel is convex in form and measures 47mm in Diameter. The Runes measure 5mm in width.
The Siegrunes in the back have been secured by pins. The back of the badge does not have any makers identification.
The book "FOR FUHRER AND FATHERLAND" by Angolia shows the back of a bronze grade Germanic Proficiency Badge. The Reichszeugmeisterei, "RZM" ( National Ordnance Department) was authorized by the SS to make numerous decorations and awards.
The Germanic Proficiency Badge was also manufactured by various other firms that did not applied their maker?s mark. The pin on the back of the badge is of the type normally found on German Naval War badges.
Mr. Angolia indicates in his book that numerous badges of a lesser quality were produced in Slovakia. This badge is extremely rare. Less than 200 were ever presented and only about 15 or less have been found in collections.
From: axis101.bizland.com