The SA-Wehrmannschaften (SA Defense Units) represented a special formation within the Sturmabteilung (SA) of the NSDAP, playing a significant role during the late years of the Weimar Republic and the early Nazi period. The buttons described here for the SA-Wehrmannschaften field cap are small but revealing relics from this turbulent period of German history.

The Sturmabteilung, originally founded in 1920/21 as the paramilitary combat organization of the NSDAP, developed into a massive organization with millions of members. After the seizure of power in 1933, the SA reached its peak before losing much of its significance following the so-called Röhm Affair in June 1934. The SA-Wehrmannschaften formed a special subdivision with military character, serving pre-military training purposes.

The marking RZM M/331 refers to the Reichszeugmeisterei system, introduced in 1929 to standardize and control the production and distribution of Nazi uniforms and equipment. The RZM was the central procurement agency of the NSDAP and its formations. Each authorized manufacturer received a unique identification number that had to be marked on the produced items. The designation “M” stood for metal manufacturers, while the number 331 identified the specific producer.

These buttons, with a diameter of approximately 16 mm, were specifically designed for the Einheitsfeldmütze (standard field cap) of the SA-Wehrmannschaften. The field cap, also known as a side cap or garrison cap, was worn as part of the field uniform and differed from the service cap through its more practical, field-suitable design. The buttons served to attach chin straps or other functional elements of the headgear.

The uniforming within the SA followed strict regulations laid down in various orders and uniform specifications. After the seizure of power in 1933, the standardization of SA clothing was intensified. The SA-Wehrmannschaften, as militarily oriented formations, wore special uniform variants that reflected their particular function. The correct equipment with RZM-marked articles was mandatory and served quality assurance as well as control over official uniform parts.

The manufacture of uniform accessories such as these buttons was a significant economic sector in the Third Reich. Numerous metalware factories, button manufacturers, and suppliers received RZM approvals and produced for various Nazi organizations. The award of contracts by the RZM meant secured income for many companies but simultaneously bound them into the Nazi system.

The SA-Wehrmannschaften themselves were expanded after 1933 and served pre-military training, although this could not yet be openly proclaimed officially due to the provisions of the Treaty of Versailles. They conducted field exercises, marches, and other paramilitary activities. After the introduction of general conscription in 1935 and the build-up of the Wehrmacht, these formations increasingly lost significance.

From a collector's perspective, such RZM-marked buttons are today historical documents that provide insight into the organizational and production structures of the Nazi state. The condition designation “2-” according to the usual grading system for military collectibles indicates a well-preserved condition with slight signs of use. The fact that these buttons are offered in pairs corresponds to their original use on the field cap.

The scholarly examination of such objects serves the historical understanding of the Nazi era, its organizational structures, and the everyday reality in the uniformed formations. They document the penetration of society by the Nazi organization and the importance of symbols, uniforms, and external signs for the regime. Today, such pieces are found in museum collections, private holdings, and serve historical research and education about this dark period of German history.