Pilot Badge, in Cloth (in bullion)

CATEGORY: Version

SKU: 01.GTR.0701.101.09.002

Estimated market value:

$475 USD

  • Pilot Badge, in Cloth (in bullion) Obverse
  • Pilot Badge, in Cloth (in bullion) Reverse

Estimated market value:

$475 USD

Attributes

  • Country
    Germany
  • Composition
    Wool/Rayon/Aluminum Bullion
  • Size
    73x60mm
  • Version Remarks
    Hand-embroidered bullion patches were worn by officers.

Physical Description and Item Details


A fine example of a Luftwaffe bullion version pilot’s badge; constructed of twisted, rolled, and flat hand embroidered silver aluminum bullion wires in the shape of an oak wreath with an eagle in the centre clutching a mobile swastika in its talons; on a grey wool backer; with a black rayon backer on the reverse; measuring 60 mm x 73 mm; with remnants from previous collector mounting remaining on the reverse; a fine quality example in overall better than very fine condition.

History


The Pilot's Badge was officially introduced by Hermann Göring on August 12th, 1935, and it was conferred upon all active military personnel who completed their flying training and were awarded a military pilot’s license.

The establishment of the Badge is often cited as March 26th, 1936, but in actuality, it was first referenced on May 27th, 1935, in the official orders of the Luftwaffe (Luftwaffe Verordnungsblatt). As stated above, it was likely instituted around August 12th, 1935, and its regulations were first published on November 27th, 1935.

In 1935, a cloth version was produced and authorised for wear of light jackets. The Badge for Officers was produced from bullion, while the Badge for Non-Commissioned Officers and enlisted men was produced from cotton thread.

The last recorded conferral of the award was on May 2nd, 1944.

All badges feature a solid mass between the legs of the eagle, however, a few original examples were manufactured with an open space between the eagle’s legs. This variation should strictly be considered a production variation.

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