Metal Badges from Forced Labor Camps – Hungary

A dozen metal badges (I.D. badge) from forced labor camps in Hungary [early 1940s]. Inscribed on each badge are a number and "Zs. Musz" (labor man). The Hungarian law obligated those who were not "reliable for military service" to work for the nation. During World War II this law was enforced mainly on Jews, who were employed in hard compulsory works in mines, road paving and in the battle fields. With the German conquest in 1944, the number of working battalions increased and the number of casualties amongst the workers reached 70,000. Size varies, app. 3X4 cm. Good condition.