Rare Polish RAF Insignia

Polish Air Force memorabilia from World War II, especially RAF insignia worn by foreign nationals, has become highly collectible in recent years. One such example includes a small RAF pilot wing, measuring just 7.5 cm across, designed to be worn on the right breast above the pocket. These wings were important for identifying the status of foreign pilots serving within the Royal Air Force during the war. The insignia shown here is displayed alongside a Polish Air Force cap badge and pilot wing, both of which highlight the international composition of the Allied air forces.

The Polish Air Force in exile relied on a range of manufacturers for their badges, with sources from Britain, Italy, and even Palestine. Many of these badges were made during the war under challenging conditions, with some showing casting flaws, file impressions, and other imperfections. These so-called “theatre-made” badges are highly prized by collectors, as they reflect the difficult circumstances under which they were produced. The presence of screws and helmet liner securing bolts on the back of the cap badge is another indicator of these improvisations.

Interestingly, the Polish pilot badge in this set lacks the usual hanging chain found on many wartime Polish aviation badges. While imperfect in finish, these badges have become increasingly rare and valuable, with prices rising tenfold in recent years as the global market for WWII memorabilia continues to grow.