A rechargeable battery comprises an electrode assembly, a receiving case for accomodating the electrode assembly, a cap plate arranged to close the receiving case, an insulating case provided between the cap plate and the electrode assembly, the insulating case having a base and a side wall, the side wall including cut-out portions, and a connection plate arranged in the insulating case, wherein portions of the connection plate are arranged to contact the receiving case through the cut-out portions to cause a short-circuit as a result of relative movement between the receiving case and the connection plate..