[1] The position of SA-Stabschef, not yet a rank, was established in 1929 to assist the Oberste SA-Führer (Supreme SA Leader)[2] with the administration of the fast-growing organisation.

Although Hitler became the supreme commander of the SA in 1930, the day-to-day running of the organisation was left to the chief of staff.

[4] The office of Stabschef was held by four different people between 1929 and 1945 and was, in all but the first case of succession, inherited due to the death of a predecessor.

Photographic evidence shows Ernst Röhm wearing such an insignia in his early days as the SA Chief of Staff.

After 1933, the insignia for Stabschef consisted of a "crossed lances" pattern, wreathed by a half oak leaf circle.