(Nahkampfspange in German) This award was instituted on 25 November 1942 to recognize troops who had participated in close quarters fighting. All troops of all services were eligible. To qualify, all engagements had to be documented and verified by the division. More than one battle could also take place on a given day. Three grades of the award were created: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. They were presented for 15, 25 and 50 close combat engagements respectively. The gold badge was rarer than the Knight's Cross.

Award of the gold badge automatically entitled the soldier to the German Cross in Gold.

Worn above the left breast pocket.