What is totenkopf-ringe?

Totenkopf ringe, or "death's head rings" in English, are rings that feature the skull and crossbones symbol often associated with pirates and danger. These rings were originally used by the German SS during World War II as a symbol of loyalty to the Nazi party and its leader, Adolf Hitler.

The design of the totenkopf ring was based on earlier military skull rings, but the Nazi version had a distinctive style, featuring a skull with an arched forehead and elongated jaw. The SS version of the ring was made of silver and included a swastika on one side and a death's head on the other, along with the engraving "Meine Ehre heißt Treue" (My Honor is Loyalty).

The totenkopf ring was given as a gift to members of the SS as a way to signify their loyalty to the party and their commitment to the Nazi cause. It was also worn by high-ranking officers and members of the Gestapo.

Today, totenkopf rings are sometimes used by neo-Nazi groups as a symbol of their beliefs. However, the use of the skull and crossbones symbol in modern times is not always related to Nazism or racism, as it can also be seen in fashion and pop culture.