Month: August 2024
On a Wing and a Prayer
Among the myriad of military collectibles, British Glider Pilot wings stand out as a particularly rare and coveted item. These wings represent a unique chapter in military history, where the wearer was not just an aviator but also a combatant, a distinction that set them apart from other pilots.
The British Glider Pilot Regiment was formed during World War II, with its members trained to fly unpowered aircraft, often under extremely hazardous conditions, and then engage in ground combat after landing. This dual role made their insignia one of the rarest and most respected in the British armed forces. Unlike typical RAF wings, glider pilot wings were designed to symbolize both the skill and the bravery required to fulfill these dual roles.
Genuine glider pilot wings are typically made of silk thread, a material chosen for its durability and distinctive sheen. Unlike cotton or other common embroidery materials, silk thread does not fray easily, preserving the detail and clarity of the wings even after years of wear. Under magnification, silk thread appears smooth and lustrous, a key characteristic that distinguishes genuine patches from reproductions.
Collectors are often advised to check for the unique properties of silk thread when evaluating the authenticity of glider pilot wings. One effective method is using a UV lamp—authentic wings will not glow under ultraviolet light, a tell-tale sign that they are made from traditional materials.
Measuring just under 5 inches in length, genuine glider pilot wings are roughly the same size as a four-medal bar, which adds to their distinctive presence on a uniform. Smaller versions of these wings, often associated with pre-1954 helicopter pilots, are also collectible but less rare.
The Appeal of Military Miniatures
For collectors of military memorabilia, miniature medals are a fascinating subset, offering all the intricate details of full-sized awards in a compact form. Here, we explore an unusual set of true miniatures, each with its own story to tell.
The centerpiece of this collection is the Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE). This military medal, distinguished by its striped ribbon, signifies a high honor bestowed for exceptional service. Alongside the OBE, we find the Queen’s South Africa Medal, adorned with bars for Cape Colony and South Africa 1902. These bars indicate the specific campaigns or actions in which the recipient participated.
Next is the 1914-1919 War Medal. Typically, one might expect to see a Victory Medal accompanying it. However, this particular group reflects the service of a member of the Colonial military forces, who did not qualify for the British Victory Medal. This distinction adds a layer of historical intrigue, highlighting the varied criteria for medal awards across different branches of the military.
Also included is the King George V Silver Jubilee Medal, issued in 1935 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of King George V’s reign. Its inclusion in this set symbolizes the wearer’s continued service and dedication across significant periods of British history. Rounding out the collection is the George VI Coronation Medal from 1937, marking the ascension of a new monarch and a new era for the British Empire.
What sets these miniatures apart is their craftsmanship. Made for mess dress wear, they replicate the full-size medals with remarkable accuracy. Tiny rivets, multi-construction bars, and meticulous detailing ensure they are exact miniatures, not simply tailor’s copies. This authenticity greatly enhances their value and appeal to collectors. Some Victorian miniatures even bear the recipient’s name around the rim, though this set does not appear to include such a personalized touch.
Collecting true miniatures is a way to preserve history in a compact, elegant form. These medals are more than just decorations; they are tokens of service and symbols of an era, each with its own unique provenance and story.
When a Circus Ring and a Spy Ring Overlap
In the fascinating world of collecting, the term “new old stock” holds a particular charm, especially when a stash of vintage items resurfaces after decades. Such is the case with these delightful badges, crafted by the renowned Fattorini & Sons Ltd in the mid-1930s. Designed for employees of the illustrious Bertram Mills Circus, these badges are a splendid find for any collector with an eye for historical treasures.
These badges come in two distinctive styles, each catering to different preferences of the time. The crescent fitting, perfect for a man’s jacket buttonhole, allowed gentlemen to proudly display their association with the circus on their lapels. Meanwhile, the pin-back style was designed for women, providing a versatile way to adorn their attire with a touch of circus flair.
The badges themselves are a charming piece of nostalgia. Featuring a vibrant design with a prancing horse, a symbol often associated with the circus’s grandeur and lively spirit, they are emblazoned with the words “Bertram Mills Circus” in bold red letters. The vivid green background adds a touch of elegance and visibility, ensuring the badge stands out as a mark of pride and belonging.
Bertram Mills Circus was more than just a traveling spectacle; it was a British institution renowned for its high-quality performances and contribution to the world of entertainment. Bertram Mills himself was a former undertaker turned circus impresario, whose vision and dedication brought joy to countless audiences. The circus was also a perfect cover for his son Cyril, who served as a spymaster in MI5, adding an intriguing layer to the family’s history.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer, the discovery of such pristine new old stock is a rare opportunity to own a tangible piece of the past.
Prussian Silver
This 1913 three Mark silver coin from the German Prussian state is a fascinating piece for collectors. Minted in Berlin, indicated by the “A” mark under the portrait, this coin boasts a higher silver content of 90%, compared to the typical 80% in German coins of the era.
The obverse features Kaiser Wilhelm II, the last German Emperor and King of Prussia, encircled by the inscription “WILHELM II DEUTSCHER KAISER KÖNIG VON PREUSSEN”. The reverse displays the imperial German eagle, symbolizing the strength and unity of the German Empire.
One notable feature is the edge inscription “GOTT MIT UNS” (God [is] with us), a motto widely used in Prussian heraldry since 1701 and found on helmets and buckles during World War I. This phrase underscored the soldiers’ belief in divine support during the conflict.
Despite their historical significance and higher silver content, these coins are generally priced just above their silver value, making them an excellent value for collectors.
Owning a 1913 Prussian 3 Mark coin not only adds a valuable piece to a collection but also offers a tangible connection to the pre-World War I era and the storied history of the German Empire.
