An evocative WWI RAF sweetheart brooch – a touching personal memento from the birth of the Royal Air Force, c.1918.
A World War I era (c.1918) Royal Air Force sweetheart brooch, finely cast in brass and decorated with traces of enamel. The brooch is designed as outstretched eagle wings centred on a crowned roundel bearing the letters RAF in red, blue, and white enamel, beneath the King’s Crown. Fastened to the reverse with its original pin and clasp. Measuring 4.9 cm wide by 1.5 cm tall.
Historical Note: Sweetheart brooches were treasured personal items, purchased privately and presented to wives, fiancées, or family members of serving men. This example dates from the very birth of the Royal Air Force, established in April 1918 with the amalgamation of the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service. The King’s Crown above the RAF monogram denotes the reign of King George V, confirming its WWI–interwar period origins. These small tokens were worn proudly on civilian clothing as a visible connection to loved ones in service, and they remain highly collectable reminders of the RAF’s earliest days.
*Condition* The brooch is in good original condition with expected signs of age and wear. The enamel retains traces of its original red, blue, and white colours though there are areas of loss, particularly to the letters. Brass surfaces have developed a warm patina with some verdigris to the reverse around the fittings. The pin and clasp remain intact and functional. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
