*British, WW1-Interwar, RAF Sweetheart Pilots Wings, Lapel Badge, Enamelled, c.1918–1930s*
RAF enamel sweetheart lapel badge, gilt and enamel, buttonhole fitting, c.1918–30s.
An interwar period Royal Air Force sweetheart lapel badge, measuring 3.8 cm wide by 1.4 cm tall. Of gilt brass with enamelled detail, the design features a pair of spread wings surmounted by a King’s Crown, the centre bearing a pale blue enamel roundel with the gilt letters RAF (now partly worn, giving the impression of “RF”). The wings are highlighted in white enamel, and the crown set with red enamel. Reverse with integral buttonhole fitting for civilian wear.
Historical Note: Sweetheart and lapel badges were not official service issue but were privately purchased items, commonly worn on the home front during and after WWI. They allowed sweethearts, wives, and family members to display pride in a loved one’s service. The Royal Air Force was formed on 1 April 1918 through the merger of the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service, making “RAF” examples the standard thereafter. The pale blue enamel centre is typical of RAF sweetheart designs of the 1920s and 1930s.
*Condition* Good overall condition with wear commensurate with age. Gilt surface rubbed with some loss, particularly to the lettering, which now reads as “RF” on close inspection. Enamel largely intact with some surface blemishes, notably to the blue field. Reverse retains original buttonhole fitting. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
