WWII Croatian Legion Volunteer Sleeve Patch – Red & White Checkerboard Shield

Original WWII-era Croatian Legion volunteer sleeve insignia, featuring the distinctive red-and-white checkerboard shield (šahovnica) embroidered on a black wool backing. This patch was worn by Croatian volunteers who served alongside Axis forces, particularly within the Wehrmacht during World War II. The high-quality embroidery and black wool field suggest early-war or officer-grade issue. An uncommon and historically significant item for advanced militaria collectors specializing in foreign volunteer legions or Axis-aligned units during World War II.

• Era: World War II (circa 1941–1945)

• Country: Independent State of Croatia (NDH)

• Type: Sleeve insignia

• Materials: Rayon/silk thread on black wool backing

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition, unsewn, no glue residue

• This is a Croatian Legion (Hrvatska Legija) volunteer shield insignia used by Croatian units who fought alongside Axis powers during WWII. These patches often featured the iconic red-and-white checkerboard shield (šahovnica), the traditional symbol of Croatia, and were worn on the uniform sleeves of Croatian volunteers in the German Wehrmacht.