BACKGROUND: The Minesweeper’s war badge was instituted on August 31ST 1940 by Oberbefehlshaber der Kriegsmarine und Großadmiral, (Commander in Chief of the Navy and Grand Admiral), Erich Raeder for award to personnel serving on minesweepers, sub-chasers, and escort vessels who met the prescribed requirements. The main prerequisite for bestowal of the award was participation in three operational sorties.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Solid backed, zinc construction badge. The badge is in the form of a vertically oval, oak-leaf wreath with a national eagle, with outstretched wings, clutching a canted swastika superimposed to the top center, encompassing horizontal waves and a cut-out, vertical, exploding, water funnel. Unmarked. Complete pin and catch assembly.