The Luftwaffe Pilot/Observer Badge With Diamonds
Amongst the rarest of the rare is the Luftwaffe Pilot/Observer Badge with Diamonds. Reichsmarschall Goering's obsession with his decorations and flamboyant uniforms appears to be mostly based on his penchant for elaborate representation and show. His persistent need to emphasize his status and power was also reflected in his practice of awarding personal decorations to friends and loyal staff.
This award was conceived during the summer of 1935 with the first bestowal taking place on November 11, 1935. It is noteworthy that both the inception and first presentation predate the introduction of the Combined Pilot's and Observer's Badge, which was introduced on March 26 1936. During the war on October 19, 1939, Goering raised the badges' status to that of an official decoration.
The badge was constructed in two distinct versions. The first being the official version being awarded by Goering personally. These were produced in gold and platinum and beset with real diamonds. The second type was the official "Dress Version" or "Daily Wear" badge, which was inlaid with synthetic stones, the wreath being gold plated on silver.
This Luftwaffe Pilot/Observer Badge with Diamonds is a jeweler's copy of the official "Dress Version" worn by Reichsmarschall Goering. The eagle is cast in solid silver, the wreath also cast in silver with 14K gold plating, the 103 Zirconia diamonds are professionally hand mounted just like the originals. This gorgeous award is handmade in North America by a second-generation jewelry firm specializing in high-end jewelry.
- Luftwaffe Pilot/Observer Badge with Diamonds and case $995 US
A few of the more famous recipients of this award include: Heinrich Himmler, Karl Doenitz, Sepp Dietrich, Erwin Rommel, Adolf Galland, Erich Hartmann, Hans Baur, Otto Skorzeny, Hanna Reitsch and Benito Mussolini.