History

The uniforms, headgear, and insignia of the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (Nationalsozialistische Deutsche Arbeiterpartei or NSDAP) went through several design changes from 1933 until the end of the Second World War. Dr. Ley, originally the Gauleiter of Rheinland and later promoted to the position of chief of staff of Party Organization and Reich Organization Leader, was largely responsible for the NSDAP rank system and uniforms.

The standardized production and circulation of all NSDAP uniform garments, headgear, and insignia were overseen by the National Material Control Office (RZM or Reichszeugmeisterei). The RZM was created in July 1934, and it was located in Munich. From 1935 onward, all NSDAP uniform garments and insignia were legally required to feature an RZM control mark or tag, as well as a number mark on metal insignia or belt buckles. These marks indicate the authenticity of the object, the type of insignia or garment, and identify the manufacturer.

The political leader's brocade belt buckle was introduced at the same time as the political leader belt buckle, on June 1, 1939. It was also worn by political leaders within the NSDAP, but on a brocade dress belt strap.

The design of these two belts buckles was the same. The main differences between the buckles are the sizes and the belt straps on which they are worn. The political leader belt buckle measures approximately 57mm and is worn on a leater strap, while the political leader brocade belt buckle measures approximately 50mm and is worn on a brocade dress strap.