Germany, Luftwaffe. A Rare Pilot’s Badge, by OM

(Flugzeugführerabzeichen). Constructed of nickel silver, 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 with two visible rivets securing the eagle in position, with a barrel hinge and vertical pinback meeting a round wire catch, maker marked “OM” for a documented but unidentified manufacturer noted for the quality of its badges, measuring 62.24 mm (w) x 52.52 mm (h), weighing 43.7 grams, demonstrating loss of finish throughout giving the badge an unspoiled patina, in addition to a possible period repair of the catch, a rare Type 1a example in near extremely fine condition.