History

In March of 1933, the SS-Wachverbände (SS-Guard Units) were instituted to administer the concentration camps of the Third Reich. In 1936, the administrative and guard units of the SS-Wachverbände were re-designated as the SS-Totenkopfverbände.

In April of 1933, SS-Totenkopfverbände personnel were issued trade insignia to identify which section of the SS they served with. They were worn on the lower left sleeve above the cuff title.

In November of 1939, a trade insignia for members of the SA who volunteered to serve with SS-TV was introduced. The insignia is embroidered with the SA logo inside and slightly overlapping a circle.