Historic Presentation Medal – NSFK Rhine Gliding Competition, Würzburg 1938 LOW NUMBER!

This impressive and historically significant bronze presentation medal was issued by the Nationalsozialistisches Fliegerkorps (NSFK) for the 16th Rhine Gliding Competition (Rhein-Segelflug-Wettbewerb) held in Würzburg in 1938.

The obverse displays the striking NSFK emblem: a stylized winged male figure positioned above a swastika, symbolizing flight, strength, and ideological devotion. The surrounding inscription reads “Nationalsozialistisches Fliegerkorps – 16. Rhein-Segelflug-Wettbewerb 1938.” The medal is well struck with strong relief and retains an attractive, even bronze patina consistent with age.

The reverse bears the well-known NSFK dedication:

“Mit unserem Führer im gleichen Schritt und Tritt fliegen wir für unser ewiges Deutschland”
(“With our Führer, in step and stride, we fly for our eternal Germany”)

Low Serial Number – No. 46

This medal bears the very low serial number 46, placing it among the earliest awards issued for this competition. Such low-numbered examples are exceptionally scarce and are generally associated with early presentations, often reserved for senior participants, officials, or individuals of particular distinction.

In the context of NSFK award practices, low serial numbers strongly suggest limited production and selective distribution, significantly enhancing both the historical importance and collector value of this piece. Medals numbered this low are rarely encountered on the market, especially when preserved with their original presentation case and official documentation.

Official Certificate of Authenticity

This medal is accompanied by its original official certificate of authenticity, dated 7 August 1938, and signed by a Generalleutnant. The presence of this document significantly enhances both the historical value and provenance of the piece, confirming its formal award status within the NSFK structure and firmly anchoring it to a documented pre-war aviation event.

Surviving NSFK medals with original, period-issued certificates are notably scarce, making this a particularly desirable and well-documented set.

Historical Background

The NSFK functioned as a paramilitary aviation organization designed to promote flying—especially gliding—among German youth and civilians. Gliding was of particular importance, as it allowed the regime to cultivate future pilots during a period when military aviation training was officially restricted.

Competitions such as the Rhine Gliding Contest were not merely sporting events but carefully staged propaganda showcases, blending aviation achievement with ideological messaging. The 1938 Würzburg competition took place at a time when Germany was accelerating its aerial and military ambitions on the eve of the Second World War.

Condition & Presentation Case

• The medal itself is in very good original condition, with crisp details and no signs of repair or damage.
• Housed in its original period presentation case, featuring velvet lining and a printed inner lid marked “Nationalsozialistisches Fliegerkorps – Der Korpsführer.”
• Important note: the original case no longer closes tightly, as the clasp has been used extensively over time—an honest and typical sign of age.
• The hinges remain fully functional and solid (100% working).
• The case exterior shows expected wear and minor material loss at the edges, consistent with an authentic pre-war example.

Summary

A rare and well-documented NSFK presentation medal from 1938, complete with its original presentation case and official period certificate signed by a Generalleutnant. This set represents a highly collectible example of pre-war German aviation and propaganda history, ideal for advanced collectors or institutional collections.