France, III Republic. A Pilot's Badge, Type I, c.1918

In bronze gilt with silvered wreath, with a 54mm wing span, number B17990 officially hand stamped on reverse, with small circular lugs, well worn, remains very fine. Footnote: Number B17990 is stamped in small numbers indicating a late war manufacturing date. In addition to this information: round attachment loops, and small numbers signal that this Badge belongs to the period. The Pilot Badge was one of five badges instituted in November 1916. This badge replaced the embroidered Arm Badge, and any unofficial wings that may have been previously worn. It was commissioned by the Commander of the French Aeronautical Branch, General Hirschauer, and designed by Charles Pillet.