WW1 and WW2 and post war RAF pilot's wings

What are RAF pilot’s wings?

RAF pilot’s wings, officially known as the pilot’s flying badge, are awarded to those who qualify as military pilots.
Worn above the left breast pocket, they identify the wearer as a trained pilot. Collectable examples include early Royal Flying Corps and First World War patterns, as well as the familiar RAF wings worn during the First and Second World War.

What should collectors look for?

Wartime wings were made in a number of different styles, so there is no single feature that proves whether a badge is original. Embroidery, backing cloth, stitching, materials and general wear all need to be considered together. Reproductions can be very convincing, particularly when viewed from the front, so provenance and comparison with known originals are important. 

Second World War RAF pilot’s wings typically sell for around £75 to £200, while First World War examples, scarcer variations and wings linked to a named pilot can fetch considerably more.

Gradia Militaria only sells original items - if you're looking for a specific RAF pilot's wing just get in touch and we can check the collection off the website.