What are these RAF wings?

[Phil2M]

Hi guys,

I have seen quite a few of these, I have seen them described as Pathfinders (which I know they are not), drivers, War Service and a few others.

I can't find them in any of my own books and I can't find a reliable online source, can anybody help me?

The wings measure roughly 5.5cm across and are roughly 2.5cm high.

Cheers

Phil

[SAS1]

In 30 years Ive never found an answer Phil. There are many many repros about, although some reckon they were worn as collar badges by early (pre WW2) RAF bands.

[Phil2M]

Hi SAS1,

Thanks for replying.

I'm glad that im not just being incredibly dumb. I was thinking its probably a collar but just really didnt have a clue, this one was sold to me as an RAF drivers badge although i didnt believe that.

Phil

[David Moore]

Hi, if this is a collar badge, has anyone got a mirror image? I too have been offered many explanations as to what this badge is; I have only come across right facing examples?

Dave Moore

[cga00]

Originally Posted by David Moore

Hi, if this is a collar badge, has anyone got a mirror image? I too have been offered many explanations as to what this badge is; I have only come across right facing examples?

Dave Moore

Same here. I've only ever seen this version facing right.

[Phil2M]

Very interesting, so is it a possible fantasy badge? I must admit that I dont recall ever seeing an opposite facing example either!

Phil

[David Moore]

When I first encountered one of these badges my initial thought was that it was possiblly a short lived forage cap badge; Eagle/Albatross facing right, stylish etc or from an MP'S arm band (in a similar style to some Regimental policemen wearing their parent unit cap badge). Since then I have just seen too many around for this to be the case. I have also seen examples in a variety of finnishes; GM, bronze, polished and some that look chemically aged! My gut instinct is that most of these badges are restrikes and possibly fantasy badges.

This said, I have also seen an example that was very convincing, it would be nice if it did turn out to be a genuine pattern. But I am convinced that 90% are restrikes.

Happy hunting

Dave

[ANGLE IRON]

I am with Dave on this one. I have one in my collection which I am 90% sure is right, it is in a good gilding metal with correct lugs, no applied age etc, but I have never seen a picture of one being worn. If they are right I think they are pre WW2 , I have had some explanations offered to me with no proof,
1 Fantasy based on an origional sweetheart
2 Early forage cap badge
3 Early womans badge
4 Old comrades badge
I would love to see a picture of one being worn. Regards Kevin

[Phil2M]

So essentially the fakers are faking fakes!

I will hold on to my example, never know what may surface in the future.

Phil

[SAS1]

Kevin

Your note mentioning an Old Comrades badge is interesting, not something I had thought of. I think that is a strong possibility for several reasons.

I too have seen some ghastly fakes, but others with what appears to be genuine aging, indicating that those at least are old. All those I have seen have had lugs and split pin fitting (unless gilt and clearly a sweetheart) indicating too its a semi-military badge. I have never seen one being worn, nor have I ever seen one shown in regulations at any time, or those badge charts that appear from time to time.

Although bandsmen used uniforms unique to them, some on short term, it might be to do with that but there are far too many about to be so. I think a private purchase old comrades badge, to be worn on a cap at reunions is probably a good guess.

[Phil2M]

I think the Old Comrades badge is highly plausible, but why is there no photographic reference to them being worn? its very strange given that this is the internet age.

The latest possible ID I have had after this thread is 'Civilian Drivers side cap badge'

I wonder if its worth contacting the RAFA?

Regards

Phil

[SAS1]

Im 99% certain Phil, that civilian drivers wore a black greatcoat type coat with black plastic 'RAF' impressed buttons, and a plack cap with patent peak and seperate eagle and crown badge. I dont know what was worn in the way of tunic, but I dont think a side cap was worn.

[Phil2M]

I looked on ebay and found Heys810's listing for civilian drivers badges. As you say, seperate eagle and crown.

Phil

[badgeman]

Originally Posted by phil2m

Hi guys,

I have seen quite a few of these, I have seen them described as Pathfinders (which I know they are not), drivers, War Service and a few others.

I can't find them in any of my own books and I can't find a reliable online source, can anybody help me?

The wings measure roughly 5.5cm across and are roughly 2.5cm high.

Cheers

Phil

Hi mate,
It's a very early RAF officers side hat badge from just after the RAF was formed, and only worn for about 6-8 months in 1918, they did away with the RAF at the bottom of the badge in early 1919 as the powers that b decided it was not neccesary.
There are alot of fakes about so be careful, but if you have provenance with it that shows its an original you are talking about hundreds rather than afew pounds.
Hope this helps

[David Moore]

Hello badgeman, any tips for spotting the real thing?

Dave M