An original German Second World War 2nd Pattern Luftwaffe summer tunic breast eagle, produced in die-struck copper-based alloy (commonly referred to as cupal) with a silvered finish. This is a heavier, higher-quality example than the later lightweight aluminium cast eagles, and is non-magnetic in construction.
The eagle is of the second pattern “flared tail” design, introduced from 1936/37 onwards, with the head facing to the viewer’s right and the swastika suspended from the left talon. The detailing remains well defined, and the piece retains its correct long pin and soldered catch assembly to the reverse.
The reverse shows surface wear and oxidation consistent with age. There appears to be a very faint possible “A” mark to the reverse, though this is indistinct and not sufficient to definitively attribute the piece to a specific maker. Comparable examples of this construction are known from early wartime production for summer tunics.
Measurements - Approx. 7.7 cm x 4.4 cm
Historical Note:
The Luftwaffe was officially established in 1935 and deliberately adopted uniform designs that differed from those of the Heer and Kriegsmarine, reflecting its modern and distinct role within the German armed forces. The breast eagle insignia originated with the pre-Luftwaffe Deutscher Luftsportverband (DLV) and was formally adopted for Luftwaffe uniforms on 1 March 1935.
Metal breast eagles were authorised for wear on the white summer tunic (Sommerrock), allowing the insignia to be removed for laundering. Early examples were manufactured in silvered brass, tombak, or copper-based alloys such as cupal, before later production shifted to silvered metal alloys and aluminium as wartime economies took effect. These metal eagles were produced in both first and second pattern forms and were worn by officers, NCOs, and enlisted personnel, with silver finishes standard for non-general ranks.
*Condition*
The eagle is structurally sound but shows honest service wear throughout, including surface oxidation and finish wear consistent with age. The swastika has been re-soldered at some point in its life, and the hook does not fully close the clasp, though the pin remains present. Overall condition is good for a wartime metal summer tunic eagle. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
