Germany, Luftwaffe. A Pilot and Observer Badge, with Case, by Friedrich Linden

(Flugzeugführer- und Beobachterabzeichen mit Etui). Constructed of silvered and gilded zink, the obverse consisting of an oval laurel and oak leaf wreath, joined together at the bottom by ribbon, overlaid by a swooping Luftwaffe eagle clutching a mobile swastika, the reverse two visible rivets securing the obverse eagle in place, with a block hinge and vertical pinback meeting a round wire catch, unmarked but demonstrating the characteristics of manufacture by Friedrich Linden, Lüdenscheid, measuring 63.55 mm (w) x 53.56 mm (w), weighing 44.0 grams, accompanied by its original presentation case, constructed of a light wooden frame with a faux dark blue leather exterior liner, the lid bearing a gilt inscription of “LUFTWAFFE FLUGZEUGFÜHRER- U. BEOBACHTERABZEICHEN”, the interior with a blue felt lid liner, intact hinge cover, and medal bed, closing with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release, unmarked, measuring 80 mm (w) x 80 mm (l) x 28 mm (h), the badge demonstrates significant loss of gilt finish and the interior liner shows consistent fading with the exception of the outline of the badge, in overall very fine condition.