*British, WW2, RAF Dental Branch Gilt Collar Badge, Winged “DB”*
A gilt brass Royal Air Force Dental Branch collar badge, featuring the interlaced “DB” monogram within a laurel wreath, flanked by outstretched wings. Reverse with pin. Measures approx. 3.7 cm wide x 1.2 cm tall. A scarce wartime branch badge that completed the service dress insignia for RAF dental officers and orderlies.
History Note: The RAF Dental Branch was formed in 1930, becoming a vital support service during the Second World War. At its height, over 1,000 dental officers and auxiliaries served worldwide, providing critical dental care to aircrew and ground personnel alike. The branch developed its own insignia: a DB monogram within a wreath with wings either side, denoting its specialist role within the flying service. Unlike general RAF collar insignia, these badges were issued only to branch staff and are now comparatively rare survivors. Post-war patterns continued but with variations in finish and crown devices, making wartime examples especially sought after.
*Condition* The badge retains much of its original gilt, with mild service wear and patches of verdigris in the recessed areas. The detail to the feathers and wreath remains sharp. Pin to reverse. Overall, a good original example of a scarce RAF branch collar badge. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
