Prussian Pilots Badge?

FZ1 · 19 September 2009, 08:24 AM

Hi folks,

New member, first post!

Could anyone spare a minute or two to give an opinion on this Prussian pilot's badge please? Any opinions greatly appreciated.

Many thanks,

Jon

VtwinVince · 19 September 2009, 09:48 AM

Jon, the jury is still out on these massive examples. Certain details on the obverse preclude period manufacture, such as the "superfluous berry" on the left lower side of the wreath. Many collectors feel that this variant is a copy from the second world war period. Manufacturer unknown.

FZ1 · 19 September 2009, 01:01 PM

Vince,

Thanks very much for the info, its very much appreciated.

Do you have any idea if these copies were intended as fakes (to pass-off as originals) or as replacements for pilots to wear on their "working" uniforms?

Sorry if this is a daft question, but I'm more familiar with WW2 badges and decorations and I've only recently started looking at the WW1 items.

Thanks,

Jon

VtwinVince · 19 September 2009, 01:42 PM

Jon, I think the concensus is that these were produced as wearer's copies, and, as such, are deemed original. However, award and private purchase pieces from the period are obviously much more highly sought after, in particular the Juncker and Meybauer pieces.

FZ1 · 19 September 2009, 02:12 PM

Thanks very much for the info Vince.

Jon