Third Reich RZM coding system

The RZM (Reichszeugmeisterei) was the central authority responsible for regulating the production of Nazi Party items, including uniforms, insignia, awards, and equipment. Each authorized manufacturer was assigned a unique RZM code. Below is an overview of RZM codes and their general structure:

Structure of RZM codes

1. Prefix Letter(s): Indicates the type of item produced:

M: Manufacturer of metal items, cloth insignia, and uniforms.

A, B, C, etc.: Specific product categories within “M.”

2. Subcategories (for M codes):

• M1: Metal badges and insignia
• M2: Metal Work Suppliers
• M3: Party emblem makers
• M4: Buckles
• M5: Buttons and uniform fittings
• M6: Aluminum Products
• M7: Edged weapons (daggers, swords)
• M8 Metal Accessories
• M9: Metal accessories for uniforms
• M10: Musical instruments
• M11: NSDAP membership pins
• M12: NSDAP Long Service Miniature Medals

3. Number: A unique identification number for the manufacturer within the category.

Example:

M1/52: Deschler & Sohn, Munich

M1/52 refers to the 52nd manufacturer of metal badges and insignia under the RZM system.

Significance of RZM codes then and now

RZM numbers allow historians and collectors to trace the origin of an item, verify authenticity, and distinguish genuine items from reproductions. These codes were part of the Nazi regime’s centralized control over the production of party-related materials, ensuring consistency and quality. As useful as they may be for this purpose, many counterfeit items include RZM codes to fool the unsuspecting. The presence of a RZM code is not necessarily a sign of authenticity.

M1 Codes and assigned company