A hat collector’s guide to RZM codes

On April 1, 1929, the "Reichszeugmeisterei der NSDAP" (RZM) was created with the aim of ensuring a higher degree of standardization and quality for uniforms, badges and other accessories used by German National Socialists. Originally, manufacturers merely had obtain RZM approval for their products, but on March 16, 1935, a numbering system was introduced, designed to be used in lieu of company hallmarks on all objects produced by approved firms.

The most familiar numbers usually begin with an M-prefix, which indicates a metal object of some kind–for example, M1 for metal insignia and badges. On the other hand, the A-prefix itself is rarely used and the main number is merely stamped on small stickers or labels inside headgear next to the word "hersteller," which means "manufacturer."

Since these numbers may be of help to collectors who want to learn more about RZM-marked insignia or hats, I thought I’d reproduce the numbers I’ve collected over the years. These come from a variety of sources and have often been supplied by other collectors without further documentation. As such, it’s a little difficult to provide proper credit to those who have done the tedious work of assembling these lists. That said, although I haven’t actually seen the book, I suspect that many others have referred to "A Collector's Guide to the RZM Marks of the NSDAP" by Joseph Schlager. If credit is due, it is hereby given. Most recently, an excellent list appeared on the Internet, which has helped me fill in some of the gaps. You’ll find it on the links page.

Although the insignia numbers provided here are more or less complete, I’ve never come across a list of hat manufacturers. In short, if any of you collectors out there have more information regarding the A1 series, please drop me a line.

Please note that RZM numbers changed after the outbreak of World War Two and the prefixes were dropped. Unfortunately, no key to wartime RZM numbers has survived. Also, the presence of an RZM number of any kind is no guarantee of originality–good fakes have RZM numbers, too! On the other hand, Heer, Luftwaffe, and Kriegsmarine items will NOT be marked in this manner. SS items may or may not be RZM hallmarked.