Luftwaffe “Fliegerschützenabzeichen für Bordfunker” (Radio Operator /Air Gunner’s Badge).
An early-war cased Luftwaffe Radio Operator / Wireless Operator Badge (Bordfunkerabzeichen) produced by the desirable maker JMME & Sohn of Berlin.
High-quality multi-piece construction with a detailed eagle clutching lightning bolts riveted to an oval wreath of oak and laurel leaves.
Hallmarked JMME & SOHN BERLIN on the reverse.
Made of nickel silver.
Before you ask, this maker had both white and blackened eagles. Both versions exist in the https://www.germancombatawards.com database.
Original pin, hinge, and catch assembly intact and functioning.
Period blue textured leatherette/card case featuring sharp gold-embossed Bordfunkerabz. lettering.
Interior is fitted with royal blue satin in the lid and deep navy velvet in the lower tray.
Excellent condition throughout.
Retains strong detail with nice natural patina; case catch and hinge operate smoothly.
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HISTORY:
The wireless operator’s/air gunner’s qualification badge was introduced by Hermann Göring on March 26TH 1936 for award to radio operators, air gunners and mechanics who had met the required criteria. The wireless operator’s/air gunner’s badge was awarded on an individual basis and the main criteria for bestowal of the badge was the completion of five operational flights over enemy territory or a minimum of two months active service. As with other flyer’s specialty badges a cloth version of the wireless operator’s/air gunner’s badge was authorized for wear on the flight blouse with a machine embroidered pattern for EM/NCO’s and a hand embroidered pattern for Officers. Of Note: Originally the cloth version of the wireless operator’s/air gunner’s badge was only authorized for wear by Officers ranks until regulations of November 18TH 1937 extended the authorized wear of the cloth versions to EM/NCO’s. Further regulations of May 8TH 1942 discontinued production of the cloth versions although they continued to worn through-out the war. Also Of Note: After the introduction of the air gunner’s badge on June 22ND 1942, the wireless operator’s/air gunner’s badge was re-designated Bordfunkerabzeichen, (Wireless Operator’s Badge), and was bestowed exclusively to wireless operators.
224 EURO
84 EURO