Original Allgemeine SS EM/NCO's Belt Buckle By Overhoff & Cie With Original Leather SS Marked Belt SS 68/40 RZM Size 100-
Presented is an exquisite example of an early pattern SS EM/NCO's Nickel Silver Belt Buckle from the Third Reich era, crafted by the esteemed manufacturer Overhoff & Cie of Ludenscheid. The buckle features a striking central motif embossed with remarkable detail: an SS-style national eagle, its wings elegantly outstretched, clasping a laurel wreath which encircles a static swastika. This emblem is encased within a circular border, resembling a twisted rope, adorned with the iconic Gothic script motto, "Meine Ehre heißt Treue!" (My Honor is Loyalty!).
The Nickel Silver composition of the buckle exhibits a delightful patina, evocative of its storied history, showcasing subtle signs of service wear. There was some slight corrosion on the surface of the buckle, but it was easily wiped off.
Stamped on the reverse side are the earliest pattern maker markings, denoting "O & C GES. GESCH." "GESCH." serves as an abbreviation for "Gesetzlich Geschützt" (By-law Protected), indicating the protected status of this design, affirming Overhoff & Cie's exclusive authorization for its production.
The use of Nickel Silver, also known as "German Silver," in its construction further authenticates its early production date, predating the transition to aluminum alloy buckles in 1936.
Original Allgemeine SS marked leather belts are rarer finds compared to SS belt buckles. This particular belt is marked “SS 68/40 RZM” on the catch tab, where "68" represents the manufacturer's code, and "40" denotes the production year. It’s size-marked at 100 cm on the tip of the belt. The aluminum catch bears the Overhoff & Cie "OLC" logo. The leather remains supple, showing minimal wear, and the overall condition of this rare Allgemeine SS belt is very good to excellent, with only light signs of use.
This original SS belt buckle and Allgemeine SS marked leather belt are in excellent condition overall.
