Shoulder Sleeve Insignia (SSI) — WWII Patches Collector's Guide
Shoulder Sleeve Insignia — commonly called SSI or division patches — are cloth insignia worn on the upper left sleeve of the US Army uniform to identify a soldier's division, corps, or army. Introduced in WWI and standardized through WWII, these colorful patches became iconic symbols of the units that wore them. Each WWII division had a unique design representing its history and character.
Identifying Authentic WWII Patches
Original WWII SSI are typically wool or cotton with chain-stitched or woven construction. Theater-made versions from Europe and the Pacific differ in material and execution from stateside-made examples and carry their own collector premium. Look for period-correct backing materials and stitching patterns. Screen-printed reproductions are common — authentic examples should show hand or machine embroidery or weave construction.
High-Demand Divisions
The most sought-after WWII division patches include the 1st Infantry (Big Red One), 82nd Airborne, 101st Airborne, 1st Cavalry, 2nd Armored, and 45th Infantry. Patches from divisions with famous combat records in Normandy, the Pacific, or the Battle of the Bulge command premium prices in the collector market.
Collector Tips
Store cloth patches flat in archival sleeves away from direct light to prevent fading. Theater-made patches and variation pieces are particularly valued — the same division could have dozens of manufacturing variants. Condition of the embroidery, backing, and overall color vibrancy directly impact value.
Browse All Items | Distinctive Unit Insignia | Collecting FAQ