A genuine WWII “Spitfire Fund” badge – a patriotic emblem worn by donors supporting Britain’s most famous fighter aircraft during the Battle of Britain.
An original Second World War home front fundraising badge cast in the form of a Supermarine Spitfire fighter, measuring 3.5 cm wide by 2.6 cm tall. The obverse is moulded with “SPITFIRE” across the wings, flanked by simplified RAF roundels, with traces of the original gilt finish still visible. The reverse shows its correct circular stud-back fixing plate, though the original retaining clip is now absent.
Historical Note: During the war, the British government encouraged local communities, schools, factories and towns to raise funds to “buy a Spitfire” through official Spitfire Fund appeals, supported by Lord Beaverbrook, Minister for Aircraft Production. In total, some 1,400 campaigns were launched, raising over £13 million—equivalent to around £650 million today. Donors often received small badges such as this, worn proudly on lapels or ties as a visible sign of support for the RAF and Britain’s most iconic fighter aircraft. The Spitfire itself became the enduring symbol of the Battle of Britain, its speed and agility representing national determination and resistance in 1940.
*Condition* Worn and corroded with some loss of the original gilt finish; lettering and roundels remain clearly legible. With original buttonhole fixing. Displays well as a representative example of these home front fundraising emblems. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
