German WWII Minesweeper Badge

German WWII Minesweeper Badge-This is a good example of a minesweeper badge. This retains approx. 80% of its original finish to the wreath and wave. The finish remains in the lowest details of the wave and ocean beneath has a very dark color to it, which is a great compliment to the gold colored wreath. The details to this as well as the wreath remain in very good condition. The needle pin, barrel hinge and crimped catch function as intended. This is a handsome badge that would look great on display.  History: Instituted on 31 August 1940 by Supreme Commander Erich Raeder. This medal was awarded to Kriegsmarine members for service on mine sweeper vessels, sub chasers or escort vessels. Some examples that the award could derive from: The candidate had completed at least three operational sorties, was wounded during an operational sortie, the ship he was sailing in an operation was sunk due to enemy action, participated in a specific sortie that proved very successful, had shown exemplary conduct in the execution of his duties over a six-month period, completed an especially dangerous mission in a mined area or served on escort duty for 25 days or more.