Up for your consideration is an incredibly rare and historically profound piece of post-WWII history: an authentic, late-1940s German Alpine souvenir charm pin representing the historic mountain district of Obersalzberg in the Bavarian Alps.
Dating strictly to the immediate post-war Allied Occupation era (circa 1945–1949), this pin carries immense historical significance. Following the capture of the area in May 1945, Obersalzberg—the former mountain stronghold of the Nazi regime—was placed under tight US military governance and turned into an Army Recreation Center. American GIs on authorized tours of the historic mountain ruins purchased these scarce pins as ultimate deployment keepsakes to send home.
Design Features
Main Motif: A beautifully detailed 3D die-struck silver-tone pin featuring a traditional Bavarian deer finished in rich brown enamel, standing proudly atop an Alpine floral display.
Floral Elements: Heavily adorned with a prominent white and yellow central Edelweiss flower, flanked by rich blue enameled Alpine Gentian blossoms.
Base Banner: A scrolled ribbon banner displaying the name "OBERSALZBERG" in clean, bold lettering.
Dangling Chatelaine Charm: Features a highly detailed, dangling silver-tone miniature mountaineer's heavy hiking boot suspended from a central metal loop.
Fastener: Equipped with a solid, original horizontal rear pin with a fully functional safety-latch closure.
Dimensions & Measurements
Width: 1 1/2"
Height: 2" (inclusive of the dangling boot charm)
Condition Report
This historic pin is in very good vintage collector's condition. The cold enameled detailing on the deer and the blue flowers is exceptionally well-preserved and vibrant. The white enamel on the central Edelweiss shows a light, natural, honest storage rub to the high points that beautifully confirms its 80-year-old vintage history. The reverse side features a gorgeous, dark, untouched aged metal patina. The dangling boot charm is original, securely attached, and swings freely. The rear horizontal pin and safety catch are completely straight, tight, and fully functional. Please review the high-resolution photographs provided to evaluate the exact cosmetic condition.