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Auction: 16003 - Orders, Decorations, Campaign Medals and Militaria
Lot: 226

(x) A 1913 Pattern Austrian Pilot's Badge
Austria, Empire, Pilot's Badge, 1913 pattern, by J. Zimbler, Vienna, 64mm including crown x 61 including eagle wings, gilt and enamel, nearly extremely fine

With the birth of aviation and the realisation of its military uses, awards to airmen soon followed. Although initially awarded to successful graduates of Field Pilot Training, the badge later required a minimum of ten successful sorties for it to remain valid for another years wear, otherwise being returned to the authorities. The item as offered was introduced with a circular Order of 4.1.1913, under the following decree:
His k.u.k. Apostolic Majesty has graciously approved with the imperial decree of the 1th of September 1912 the introduction of a wearable field pilot's badge to be worn on the right breast in accordance with the following illustration. The award of this badge by the War Ministry is consequent to the recommendation of the Commander of the Luftschifferabteilung to all active and non-active personnel, who have met the corresponding conditions and will be promulgated in the k.u.k. Army gazette.'

Latterly three conditions were placed for a permanent award, being that of training completion prior to 31.12.1913, having fulfilled the award criteria for four years or the pilot being injured or wounded in carrying out his duties and additionally being decorated for his bravery.

Approximately 797 awards conferred.

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Sold for
£580