BACKGROUND: After Hitler’s accession to power in 1933 he immediately began a restructuring of the national railway system and by early 1937 had succeeded in achieving a centralized efficient National Railway. With this restructuring new uniforms and insignia were introduced for railway personnel in 1933. Additional items of insignia were introduced and modified at various times throughout the war. Of Note: These collar tabs were replaced in 1942 with the introduction of the second pattern.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: First pattern Reichsbahn collar tab as introduced circa 1933. Elongated rectangular black velvet collar tabs, with red wool piping. Each collar tab has a stamped alloy, fire gilted, Reichsbahn emblem of a spoked, winged wheel. Tan buckram backings. Removed from a uniform. Nice!