Two German Army identity discs : Ludwig Borski and Wolfgang Hofer

Two German army identity discs (Erkennungsmarke). The zinc discs are oval shaped with two holes punched in the top for a suspension cord. A line of circular indentations stamped horizontally across the centre enable it to be snapped in half in case of the bearer being killed (half then remains with the body, the other being sent to headquarters). The information stamped on the disc is duplicated on both top and bottom halves, these two examples reading: 'LUDWIG BORSKI POSEN 27.7.98 N.K.142. L.F.A.BTL.37.3.BTT.' and 'WOLFGANG HOFER HIRSCHBERGMUSEUM S.1. 14.8.97. N.K.78. L.F.A.BTL.37.3.BTT.'

These identity discs were collected as souvenirs by Corporal Gordon Binns, AIF. The information contained on them is thought to be as follows: owner's name; last place of residence; date of birth; roster number; and unit. It appears that both Ludwig Borski and Wolfgang Hofer served with the 3rd Battery of Lehre Fuss Artillerie (Training Foot Artillery) Battalion 37.