Exceptional FLL Pilot Observer Badge – US Veteran Bring-Back

Product Description: Exceptional FLL Pilot Observer Badge – US Veteran Bring-Back

This FLL Pilot Observer Badge is an outstanding, all-original piece and a rare US veteran bring-back. Crafted from a high-quality brass alloy (Tombak), this early-production badge is a highly sought-after example from the esteemed maker Friedrich Linden (FLL) of Lüdenscheid.

The obverse displays stunning original gilding on the wreath, with near-perfect luster and only minimal wear exposing the base metal on the high points. The silvered eagle remains beautifully intact, with only light patina that enhances its character. The fine detailing on the eagle’s feathers is exquisite, making this badge a true standout among collectors.

The reverse construction is textbook for FLL, featuring a soldered block hinge, a fully functional round wire pin, and a distinctive “question mark” catch. The rivets remain tight and untouched, and all hardware is completely original and intact. While this variant is unmarked, it is a well-documented example from this prestigious maker.

Adding to its significance, this badge comes directly from the estate of US veteran Max Whiteleather, a D-Day second-wave veteran who also fought in the Battle of the Bulge. With its remarkable condition, historical provenance, and superb craftsmanship, this is an exceptional addition to any advanced collection.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a truly desirable and historic piece!

Historical Description: The Luftwaffe Combined Pilot Observer Badge was instituted by Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring on January 19, 1935. It was among the earliest badges introduced in the German Wehrmacht and was worn by all qualified pilots in the German Air Force, similar to the “wings” worn by some other armies. The design of the badge featured a large, silver swooping eagle clutching the German national swastika emblem, surrounded by a golden wreath of oak and laurel leaves. The badge was normally presented in a blue hinged case. It was worn on the upper left uniform pocket, and a cloth version was also authorized for field use. In the nearly ten years from the introduction of this badge, to the end of WWII, the manufacturers of these awards made many changes in the features of the designs. Some companies, like Juncker, Assmann, and Deumer, had early first pattern badges which looked completely different from later pieces by the same manufacturers. Pilot Observer badges were made of aluminum, nickel silver, plated Tombak, and later on in zinc. The eagle was always a separate piece, riveted to the wreath, with different manufacturers using different rivet designs. As the war progressed, and dies wore out, many makers produced badges with subtle changes. All of these changes over time open up a large spectrum of variation collecting for Luftwaffe badge collectors.

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