2019 New! Check our easy to use site www.originalgermanmilitaria.com >>>
LC002. Luftwaffe Technical Flying Personnel Insignia from Vet's Scrapbook. Luftwaffe Technical Flying Personnel Insignia from Vet's Scrapbook. See pictures...$ 35.00 (Pictures)
LC003. Un-Finished Luftwaffe Forestry Collar Tab. Un-Finished Luftwaffe Forestry Collar Tab with storage wear only. See pictures...$ 25.00 (Pictures)
LC035. Pair of Luftwaffe Signals EM's Shoulder Straps. Great looking Pair of Luftwaffe Signals EM's Shoulder Straps as worn by members of the AFRIKAKORPS. These were part of a hoard broken up in the past decade. See pictures...$ 145.00 (Pictures)
LC044. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Jagdgeschwader Richthofen Cuff Title. Great looking Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Jagdgeschwader Richthofen Cuff Title having machine-embroidered white cotton thread on a dark blue velveteen measuring 18 inches/ 46cm long being in near mint/mint condition. See pictures...$ 495.00 (Pictures)
LC078m. Cardboard Template for Luftwaffe Officer Breast Eagle. Nice looking Cardboard Template for Luftwaffe Officer Breast Eagle. See pictures...$ 45.00 (Pictures)
LC144. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Cap Eagle, Variant. Good looking Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Cap Eagle, Variant being an indirect vet-estate pickup, note how this example has extra material at the sides and a backing at the reverse. See pictures...$ 125.00 (Pictures)
LC152. Luftwaffe Ordnance Personnel Trade Badge. Good looking Luftwaffe Ordnance Personnel Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 20.00 (Pictures)
LC155. Luftwaffe Administrative Personnel Trade Badge. Good looking Luftwaffe Administrative Personnel Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 20.00 (Pictures)
LC168. Luftwaffe Qualified Telephone Operator Personnel Trade Badge. Good looking Luftwaffe Qualified Telephone Operator Personnel Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 20.00 (Pictures)
LC169. Luftwaffe Qualified Teletype Operator Personnel Trade Badge. Good looking Luftwaffe Qualified Teletype Operator Personnel Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 20.00 (Pictures)
LC193. Pair of Luftwaffe Signals EM's Shoulder Straps. Great looking Pair of Luftwaffe Signals EM's Shoulder Straps as worn by members of the AFRIKAKORPS. See pictures...$ 125.00 (Pictures)
LC194. Pair of Luftwaffe Signals EM's Shoulder Straps. Great looking Pair of Luftwaffe Signals EM's Shoulder Straps as worn by members of the AFRIKAKORPS. See pictures...$ 125.00 (Pictures)
LC203. Luftwaffe Construction Troops Unteroffizier's Shoulder Board. Good looking Luftwaffe Construction Troops Unteroffizier's Shoulder Board. See pictures...$ 35.00 (Pictures)
LC216. Luftwaffe Motor Vehicle Trade Badge for "Distinguished Performance As A Driver". Great looking mint-unissued Luftwaffe Motor Vehicle Trade Badge for "Distinguished Performance As A Driver" that would have been issued with an award document from a vet family lot. See pictures...$ 120.00 (Pictures)
LC220. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Cap Eagle, Variant. Good looking Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Cap Eagle being an uncommon variant possibly made in Italy. See pictures...$ 85.00 (Pictures)
LC233. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Geschwader Hindenburg Cuff Title. Good looking Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Geschwader Hindenburg Cuff Title having machine-embroidered white cotton thread on a dark blue wool measuring 13 1/4 inches/ 34cm having been trimmed at the ends for display in a scrapbook. See pictures...$ 250.00 (Pictures)
LC236. Luftwaffe Feldwebel Shoulder Strap, Flight/Para Piped. Slip-on Style. See pictures...$ 40.00 (Pictures)
LC248. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Breast Eagle, Tunic-Removed. Good looking Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Breast Eagle being a tunic-removed example. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures)
LC261. Luftwaffe Flak Artillery Personnel's Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 75.00 (Pictures)
LC267. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Jagdgeschwader Richthofen Cuff Title. Great looking Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Jagdgeschwader Richthofen Cuff Title having machine-embroidered white cotton thread on a dark blue velveteen wool backing measuring 16 1/2 inches/ 41.5cm long. See pictures...$ 450.00 (Pictures)
LC276. Luftwaffe Flak Artillery Personnel's Trade Badge. See pictures... SOLD (Pictures) SOLD
LC287. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Tunic Eagle. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures)
LC299. Luftwaffe NCO's Tunic Strap, Medical Piped. See pictures...$ 40.00 (Pictures)
LC305. Luftwaffe Officer's Visor Cap Wreath. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures)
LC319. Luftwaffe Officer's Breast Eagle. Great looking hand-embroidered bullion Luftwaffe Officer's Breast Eagle. See pictures...$ 150.00 (Pictures)
LC323. Luftwaffe Administrative Official's Shoulder Boards. See pictures...$ 30.00 (Pictures)
LC328m. Luftwaffe Flying Technical Personnel Trade Badge. Good looking Luftwaffe Flying Technical Personnel Trade Badge. I have a few of these. Price is per piece. See pictures...$ 25.00 (Pictures)
LC339. Luftwaffe Tropical Breast Eagle, Tunic Removed. Great looking Luftwaffe Tropical Breast Eagle, Tunic Removed, as worn by members of the AFRIKAKORPS having a good look. See pictures...$ 250.00 (Pictures) NEW
LC341. Luftwaffe Tropical Breast Eagle, Tunic Removed. Great looking Luftwaffe Tropical Breast Eagle, Tunic Removed, as worn by members of the AFRIKAKORPS having a good look. See pictures...$ 250.00 (Pictures) NEW
LC353. Luftwaffe Flak Artillery Personnel's Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 30.00 (Pictures) NEW
LC364. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Tunic Eagle, Bevo-Weave. Hard to find bevo example. See pictures...$ 95.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC366. Luftwaffe Ordnance Personnel Trade Badge. Good looking Luftwaffe Ordnance Personnel Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 20.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC370. Luftwaffe Qualified Teletype Operator Personnel Trade Badge. Good looking Luftwaffe Qualified Teletype Operator Personnel Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 20.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC377. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Breast Eagle. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN SOLD
LC378. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Breast Eagle, Tunic-Removed. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC384. Luftwaffe Obergefreiter's Rank Chevron. See pictures...$ 25.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC388. Luftwaffe Flight Personnel's Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 25.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC391. Luftwaffe Civilian Technician Breast Badge. See pictures...$ 40.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC398. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Breast Eagle. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC406. Luftwaffe Flak Artillery Personnel's Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC416. Luftwaffe Officer's Visor Cap Wreath. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC420. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Breast Eagle. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC422. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Cap Eagle. Nice cap-removed example. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC426. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Breast Eagle. Shows use. The wool is worn down to the base. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC427. Luftwaffe Tropical EM/NCO's Cap Eagle. Good looking Luftwaffe Tropical EM/NCO's Cap Eagle, Cap-Removed being embroidered on a mesh material. See pictures...$ 145.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC429. Luftwaffe Flak Collar Tabs. See pictures...$ 45.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC434. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Cap Eagle. Nice cap-removed example. See pictures...$ 40.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC435. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Cap Eagle on Black Background. As worn by Herman Goering Division. Two pinholes from being mounted. See pictures...$ 40.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC438. Luftwaffe Officers Cap Eagle for White Summer Visor Cover. One prong gone from reverse metal assembly. Rare and excellent. See pictures...$ 250.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC440. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Tunic Eagle on Green HBT. Nice used example. See pictures...$ 150.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC441. Luftwaffe Officer's Breast Eagle on Piece of Tunic. Great looking hand-embroidered bullion Luftwaffe Officer's Breast Eagle on piece of tunic. See pictures...$ 150.00 (Pictures) JUST IN SOLD
LC443. Luftwaffe Motor Vehicle Driver's Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 25.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC444. Pair of Luftwaffe Tropical Flight/Paratrooper Shoulder Straps, Tunic-Removed. Nice worn pair with the exposed size being faded as worn by members of the AFRIKAKORPS. See pictures...$ 175.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC445. Luftwaffe Obergefreiter's Rank Chevron. See pictures...$ 25.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC446. Luftwaffe Obergefreiter's Rank Chevron. See pictures...$ 25.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC450. Luftwaffe Officer's Breast Eagle, Drooptail Version, Flatwire. See pictures...$ 195.00 (Pictures) JUST IN SOLD
LC452. Luftwaffe Officer's Cape Eagle. Excellent example. Hand embroidered bullion on wool. 19 by 9.5cm. See pictures... SOLD (Pictures) JUST IN SOLD
LC453. Luftwaffe Tropical Breast Eagle, Tunic Removed. Great looking Luftwaffe Tropical Breast Eagle, Tunic Removed, as worn by members of the AFRIKAKORPS. See pictures...$ 250.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC454. Luftwaffe Tropical Breast Eagle, Tunic Removed. Great looking Luftwaffe Tropical Breast Eagle, Tunic Removed, as worn by members of the AFRIKAKORPS. See pictures...$ 250.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC455. Luftwaffe Officer's Breast Eagle. Great looking hand-embroidered bullion Luftwaffe Officer's Breast Eagle. See pictures...$ 150.00 (Pictures) JUST IN SOLD
LC457. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Cap Eagle. Nice cap-removed example. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC458. Luftwaffe Shoulder Strap, Flight/Paratrooper Piped. See pictures...$ 40.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC459. Luftwaffe Shoulder Strap, Signals Piped. See pictures...$ 40.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC462. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Breast Eagle. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC464. Luftwaffe Gefreiter's Rank Chevron. See pictures...$ 25.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC466. Luftwaffe Flight & Air Signals Armorer's Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 20.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC467. Luftwaffe Medical Personnel Trade Badge. See pictures...$ 20.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC471. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Cap Eagle. Cap-removed. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN SOLD
LC475. Kriegsberichter der Luftwaffe NCO's Armband. This piece measures 13 inches/33cm long and was worn by members of Luftwaffe Propaganda Units, namely War Correspondants and is a fairly rare item with this being a tunic removed example in very good condition. (381bm) See pictures...$ 795.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC476. Luftwaffe Medical Leutnant's Collar Tab. See pictures...$ 25.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC478. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Cap Eagle. Cap-removed. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC482. Luftwaffe Flight/Paratrooper Hauptmann's Shoulder Board. See pictures...$ 40.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC483. Luftwaffe Sport's Shirt Insignia. 8 1/2 inch wingspan. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN SOLD
LC484. Luftwaffe Shoulder Strap, Flight/Paratrooper Piped. See pictures...$ 45.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC485. Luftwaffe Shoulder Strap, Flight/Paratrooper Piped. See pictures...$ 45.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
LC490. Luftwaffe Officer's Breast Eagle. Great looking hand-embroidered bullion example. See pictures...$ 150.00 (Pictures) JUST IN SOLD
LC491. Luftwaffe Officer's Visor Cap Eagle. Stellar hand-embroidered bullion example. See pictures...$ 125.00 (Pictures) JUST IN SOLD
LC494. Luftwaffe Flak Artillery Personnel's Trade Badge, Hand-Embroidered. Excellent hand-embroidered private purchase example. See pictures...$ 200.00 (Pictures) JUST IN SOLD
LC497. Luftwaffe EM/NCO's Breast Eagle. See pictures...$ 50.00 (Pictures) JUST IN
To order please email John at or
I am always interested in purchasing anything that you may have available for sale.
Please email me at or or call John at (office) or (cell) describing the item(s) that you have.
2019 New! Check our easy to use site www.originalgermanmilitaria.com >>>
The History and Significance of Luftwaffe Cloth Insignia
The Luftwaffe, as the aerial warfare branch of the German Wehrmacht, developed a distinctive and highly recognizable system of cloth insignia. These pieces were worn on uniforms, headgear, and special clothing, and they communicated a wealth of information about the wearer—rank, unit, specialty, and even campaign experience. The design language of Luftwaffe insignia drew from both military tradition and the modernist aesthetics of the Third Reich, resulting in some of the most striking badges of the era.
Cloth insignia were produced in vast quantities and in many variations, reflecting the rapid expansion of the Luftwaffe from a clandestine organization in the early 1930s to a massive fighting force by the mid-war years. The materials and manufacturing techniques evolved over time, with early pieces often being hand-embroidered and later examples utilizing machine embroidery for speed and economy. Collectors today prize both the aesthetic appeal and the historical significance of these items.
Understanding the different types of Luftwaffe cloth insignia is essential for any collector or historian. The most commonly encountered categories include breast eagles, collar tabs, shoulder straps and boards, cuff titles, and trade badges. Each of these served a specific purpose and had its own set of regulations governing design, color, and placement.
Primary Types of Luftwaffe Cloth Insignia
The following list outlines the main categories of Luftwaffe cloth insignia that collectors frequently encounter:
- Breast Eagles: Worn on the right breast of the tunic, these eagles were the emblem of the Luftwaffe. EM/NCO versions were machine-woven or embroidered on wool or cotton, while officer versions were often hand-embroidered in bullion wire.
- Collar Tabs: Worn in pairs on the collar, these indicated rank and branch. They came in various colors and designs, such as the yellow-piped flying troops tabs or the green-piped administrative tabs.
- Shoulder Straps and Boards: These denoted rank and unit. EM/NCO straps were made of wool with branch-colored piping, while officer boards were often constructed with silver or gold braid and underlay.
- Cuff Titles: These were worn on the lower left sleeve and bore the name of a unit, such as "Jagdgeschwader Richthofen" or "Geschwader Hindenburg". They were typically machine-embroidered on dark blue or black bands.
- Trade Badges: These circular or oval patches were worn on the lower left sleeve and indicated a specific specialty, such as ordnance, administrative, or signals personnel.
Each of these categories presents its own challenges and rewards for collectors. Condition, rarity, and unit association all play a role in determining value.
Manufacturing Variations and Material Differences
Luftwaffe cloth insignia were produced by numerous manufacturers across Germany and occupied territories. This led to a wide range of variations in materials, embroidery styles, and backing fabrics. Common materials included wool, cotton, rayon, and later, synthetic blends. Officer pieces often used bullion wire, aluminum, or cellon for the metallic elements.
Machine embroidery became increasingly prevalent as the war progressed, replacing the more labor-intensive hand embroidery. However, even within machine-embroidered pieces, there were differences in thread density, color shades, and construction. Some insignia were made in occupied countries, such as Italy or the Netherlands, and these foreign-made examples can exhibit distinct characteristics.
Understanding these variations is crucial for authentication and for appreciating the diversity of the field. Collectors often specialize in particular manufacturers or construction techniques.
Collecting and Authenticity Considerations
When building a collection of Luftwaffe cloth insignia, several factors should be considered. First, condition is paramount: pieces in mint, unissued condition command a premium, while heavily worn or damaged items may still have historical value but are less desirable. Originality is equally important, as the market is flooded with reproductions and fakes.
It is recommended to study original examples closely and to consult reference books, online forums, and experienced collectors. Pay attention to details such as stitching, materials, and reverse construction. Many fakes are easily identifiable due to incorrect materials or modern manufacturing techniques.
Finally, consider the context of the piece. Items with clear provenance, such as those from veteran estates or with original award documents, are often more valuable and interesting. The thrill of the hunt and the connection to history are what make collecting Luftwaffe cloth insignia so rewarding.
Related Collecting Areas
While this page focuses on Luftwaffe items, we also offer a wide range of cloth insignia from other branches of the German military. Be sure to explore our Army Cloth Insignia, Kriegsmarine Cloth Insignia, and SS Cloth Insignia pages for additional items. Each branch has its own unique history and design traditions.
For those interested in police or civilian organizations, please visit our Police Cloth Insignia section. And if you are looking for a broader overview, see our Cloth Insignia index page.