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An original and exceptionally rare officer's commemorative badge of the Polish 3rd Aviation Regiment based in Poznań (Ławica). The badge features a premium, multi-piece construction crafted from solid silver, measuring approximately 50 x 20 mm. The base design consists of two outstretched, stylized silver aviation wings. Superimposed at their junction is an oval laurel wreath filled with rich, authentic green translucent hot enamel, housing a central gilded number 3. The reverse is flat, showing the precise structural rivets securing the front pieces and a robust central threaded post for mounting. The right wing displays a crisp stamped artisan hallmark: J.KNEDLER, while the lower elements of the wreath bear the official pre-WWII Polish state silver assay hallmarks along with the maker's initials IK. The piece is in superb collectible condition with flawless enamel and an exquisite, deep natural patina.
Historical context:
The 3rd Aviation Regiment was established in July 1921 in Poznań and grew to become one of the premier air force units of the Second Polish Republic. The official badge pattern was formally approved by the Ministry of Military Affairs on December 7, 1932. The prestigious engraving and enameling atelier of Jan Knedler in Warsaw was commissioned to produce these high-grade military insignia. Silver-and-enamel officer variants were awarded selectively and rank today among the scarcest, most prestigious targets for advanced collectors of pre-1939 Polish military aviation artifacts.