Fall 2026 Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 87:
Description
Offered here is an original Imperial German Abzeichen fuer Marine-Flugzeugfuehrer auf Landflugzeugen, the qualification badge for Kaiserliche Marine landplane pilots, instituted by Kaiser Wilhelm II on 23 February 1915. Created specifically for naval aviators operating land-based aircraft, this badge is among the scarcer Imperial German aviation qualifications and was issued to a comparatively small cadre of trained naval pilots. The badge is of gilt metal construction and features the characteristic Imperial crown above a split wreath of laurel and oak, surrounding the soaring eagle beneath the radiant sun and over the distinctive terrestrial landscape associated with the naval landplane pattern. The wreath is joined by a prominent bow at the base. This configuration distinguishes the landplane pilot badge from the separate Kaiserliche Marine seaplane pilot badge, which employed a maritime scene with Heligoland. The reverse retains its period vertical pin, barrel-style hinge, and catch arrangement, with the die-struck relief of the obverse visible through the reverse surface. The badge exhibits attractive age and patination, with surviving gilt finish, oxidation, and handling wear consistent with period use. The crown, eagle, wreath, sunburst, and landscape remain well defined. Imperial German naval aviation badges were produced in relatively limited numbers compared with Army aviation insignia. Published references place the number of landplane pilot badges awarded at only about 230-231 examples, underscoring the scarcity of the type. A rare and historically important original Kaiserliche Marine Landplane Pilot Badge, representing one of the most specialized aviation qualifications of the First World War. Condition as photographed.
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