History

The Eagle Insignia was introduced on February 17, 1934. The initially introduced pattern was only in use between 1934 and 1935. A second pattern was then introduced which would not change again. The difference between the two patterns is that the second pattern eagle has longer but narrower wings and a lower overall profile. These early insignia were made of various metals. Later cloth insignia were introduced as well.

Cloth insignia for lower ranks were mostly (machine) embroidered, those for higher ranks were, at least initially, hand-stitched, and made of aluminum wire. Since January 1, 1943 caps for General ranks had gilt insignia.

The Eagle Insignia was usually complemented by the Cockade Insignia - with or without Oak Leaves Wreath, depending on the cap it was worn on - and when one was embroidered, the other one was supposed to be as well, or both were supposed to be made of metal. However, a mixture of metal and embroidery was often worn, contrary to regulations.

There were two versions of the Eagle Insignia when it came as part of a two-piece insignia including the Cockade Insignia (without oak leaves). These would always be embroidered, and both insignia would be sewn to an underlying cloth piece, either in the shape of a trapezoid or t-shaped. This type of insignia was used for the M42 and M43 caps.

Cloth insignia for Tropical or Panzer uniforms would vary in colour. Tropical ones are blue-grey on a khaki or tan-coloured backing, while Panzer ones are white on a black backing.