The RZM and the SA

The RZM (Reichzeugmeisterei) was the regulatory agency which governed the manufacture and sale of all Political insignia, uniforms and uniform equipment for the various Parly Organizations. The RZM controlled licensing and design specifications for the numerous manufacturers and sales facilities. The RZM itself did little actual construction of insignia. This was limited primarily to the development of Muster (construction examples) for the manufacturing firms. It should be noted, however, that even the construction of Muster was usually contracted out to a highly reputable firm with the actual work receiving final approval from the RZM. Original Muster insignia issued by the RZM is difficult to find and is a fine addition to any collection. RZM Muster insignia should have a specific tag marking it as such. For example, a set of collar tabs constructed as a Muster would normally be attached with a multicolored cord fastened together by a round metal seal approximately one half inch in diameter. The seal displayed the RZM logo on one side and an item code number or description on the other. The Muster tags can also found in cloth and in paper variations depending on the type of insignia involved.

Primary manufacturers were required to place RZM tags (normally paper) on each item which they manufactured under RZM specifications. The tag indicated the firms RZM number, individual tag number, and license cost. The license cost was designated by the color of printing on the tag and also by a letter code on later tags.

The placement of the RZM labels on the insignia was also regulated. It was a requirement that a label be placed on each piece of insignia which was produced. Despite the rules it was common practice for the RZM label to be attached only to the left collar tab when a pair was completed and only one tag to a pair of shoulder boards. The following photos are provided to give the collector an idea of the general appearance and placement of the RZM labels on SA insignia.

David Fuller,"Collectors Guide to Sturmabteilung Insignia", Postal Instant Press, 1985