*Replica, German, WW2, Bi-Metal Luftwaffe Pilot-Observer Qualification Badge, by GVHE*
This is an excellent copy. The Luftwaffe Pilot Observer’s Badge is composed of two pieces of die-struck nickel silver, held together by two rivets visible on the reverse. The difference between the Pilot-Observer and the Pilot’s badge is that the eagle is polished silver and the wreath finished in gold. It features a gold tombac oval wreath with laurel leaves on the left side and oak leaves on the right, separated by three small ribbon-like loops at the bottom. A large patinated eagle with spread wings appears to be attacking a mobile swastika. The reverse has the two rivets and a vertical needle-style pinback with a barrel hinge and, in the centre, the maker’s mark, “GVHE” within a square. GVHE is not a known maker of this badge. There is a pronounced dip at the back towards the clasp and the wreath is quite wide. Nonetheless this is a weighty badge of substance. It was typically presented in a blue hinged case and worn on the upper left uniform pocket, with a cloth version authorized for field use.
Reichsmarschall Herman Göring replaced the Aircrew Badge with the Combined Pilot-Observer Badge (Beobachterabzeichen) on January 19, 1935. This badge was awarded to personnel qualified as both pilots and observers. Among the earliest badges introduced in the German Wehrmacht, it was worn by all qualified pilots in the German Air Force, similar to the “wings” worn by some other armies.
To qualify, recipients had to complete two months of qualifying service and five operational flights as an observer, navigator, or bombardier. It could also be awarded if an airman was wounded while serving as an observer during a qualifying flight. The badge was worn on the left breast pocket of an air force or political uniform tunic, and a citation accompanied the award. Luftwaffe personnel who had already received the Pilot’s Badge and Observer’s Badge could qualify for the Pilot/Observer Badge. After July 31, 1944, regulations required recipients to hold both qualification certificates for at least one year to qualify.
*Condition*
Good used condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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