This was awarded to eligible pilots who were retired or so disabled in combat that they could no longer perform their normal flying duties. This 'retirement' insignia was the first of its type awarded by any nation for its airmen. They were manufactured between 1916 and 1921, instituted by King Ludwig III of Bavaria.
This is one of the rarer examples, with the arched crown indicating Bavarian provenance, as opposed to the rest of Germany which had to sport the Imperial Reich crown on their badge. Goering wore the 'Reich' version in the photo of him caressing his lioness at Carinhall in the 1930s. Out of a Reich total of 88 fighter squadrons, including five naval ones, Bavaria provided ten.
It measures 45 mm x 70 mm. The piece is of two part construction in continental silver or heavy duty EPNS over base metal. There is no maker's mark. The cross of the crown's orb is missing.
If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.
[Militaria : Badges : German : 20th Century]
|
![online Militaria dealer - Antique-Militaria [UK]](/images/antique-militaria.jpg)
Antique Militaria Home
Site map
Historic comments
MAGNIFY