A scarce original Royal Air Force sweetheart brooch, cast in brass and decorated with red and green enamel. The design features the King’s Crown surmounting a laurel wreath enclosing the red enamelled letters “RAF,” flanked by outstretched gilt wings. The rear retains its original pin-back fitting. The badge measures 6 cm wide by 2 cm tall.
Identifiable as WWI / early interwar due to its Tudor Crown, heavy brass casting, enamel decoration, and simple open pin fitting — all features associated with c.1918–20 manufacture.
Historical Note: The RAF was formed in April 1918 from the amalgamation of the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service. Sweetheart brooches of this type were privately purchased and worn by wives, mothers and loved ones as symbols of pride and support. The heavy cast brass construction, Tudor Crown, and simple pin-fitting are characteristic of WWI and immediate post-war examples, placing this brooch to circa 1918–1920.
*Condition* The brooch shows age-related wear, with losses to the green enamel and surface patina to the brass. The red enamel of the “RAF” and the Crown remains reasonably intact. Pin and clasp remain present though show verdigris and age toning. Overall good, untouched condition for a piece of over 100 years. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
