*German, WW2, Luftwaffe Breast Eagle Cloth Patch, Blue-Grey Wool Backing, Enlisted/NCO Tunic Insignia*
An original wartime German Luftwaffe breast eagle (Hoheitsabzeichen), the standard national emblem worn on the right breast of Luftwaffe service tunics during the Second World War. This is the desirable second-pattern form, featuring the characteristic outstretched “droop-tail” eagle clutching a swastika below.
The eagle is machine embroidered in tan/golden thread onto a blue-grey wool backing, typical of enlisted men and NCO issue. This style is commonly associated with standard Luftwaffe personnel including flying crews, ground staff, and occasionally Fallschirmjäger field uniforms depending on exact cloth shade and uniform type. The reverse shows period cloth construction consistent with wartime manufacture.
Approx. Measurements – Width: 9 cm. Height: 3.5 cm.
History Note:
Introduced during the mid-1930s, this second-pattern Luftwaffe eagle replaced earlier Weimar transitional forms and became the standard breast insignia throughout the war. It was worn above the right breast pocket and served as one of the most recognisable symbols of the German Air Force. Variations existed for officers, tropical uniforms, and specialist branches, with wool-backed enlisted examples such as this remaining among the most commonly collected originals.
*Condition*
Condition is good overall with honest age-related wear. Some light edge fraying to the wool backing and minor loose threads are present, consistent with period wear or careful removal from a uniform. The embroidery remains well defined and displays strongly. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
A strong original display piece of classic Third Reich Luftwaffe uniform insignia, ideal for collectors of German militaria, aviation history, or WWII cloth insignia.
