the markings on the reverse side identify the maker Funk & Bruninghaus / Luedenscheid

The Gold Close Combat Clasp was often regarded in higher esteem than the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross by the German infantry. Of the roughly 18 to 20 Million soldiers of the German Wehrmacht and Waffen-SS 36,400 received the Bronze Class, 9,500 the Silver Class and 631 the Gold Class. (source: Wikipedia)

The Close Combat Clasp (German: Nahkampfspange) is a German military award instituted on 25 November 1942 for achievement in hand to hand fighting in close quarters. The Close Combat Clasp was worn above the upper left uniform pocket. The clasp was die-cast and made of either tombac or later zinc, with a slightly curved and hand centerpiece consisting of the national emblem surmounting a crossed bayonet and hand grenade.

The award was bestowed in three classes:

For 15+ days of close combat a Bronze Class was awarded.

For 30+ days of close combat a Silver Class was awarded.

For 50+ days of close combat a Gold Class was awarded.

An exemption was made if the soldier was wounded in battle so badly that his injuries precluded a return to the front. In such a case, the criteria were reduced to 10, 20 and 40 days. The highest number of days in combat recorded is listed at 84 by SS-Hauptscharführer Hermann Maringgele.