German WW2 Kuban SHIELD, 1943 This item depicted in the images is a rare German WW2 campaign shield award. This badge, which was worn by personnel awarded with the item on the upper left sleeve, was issued to German soldiers who participated in the battles around the Kuban pocket in Russia in 1943. Date Instituted: September 21, 1943 Awarded To: Luftwaffe and Kriegsmarine personnel were awarded the shield based on a fairly complicated point system. Each recipient was entitled to five copies of the award, and more could be purchased, if needed. Qualifications: To serve in the bridgehead for 60 days, been wounded while serving, and engaged in a major operation while at the bridgehead Number Awarded: 5 awarded to each recipient, more purchased if needed Grades/Variations: The shield was struck in sheet metal or zinc and treated with a bronzed wash. A back plate, which held in place a piece of cloth matching the recipients branch of service, was applied to the shield. Reference: Detlev Niemann in "Price Guide. Orders and decorations Germany", 2008, page 656, catalogue price is $270. Estimate price for this item is $270 - $300.