Poland WWII 2nd Corps Rescue Units Badge – Picchiani & Barlacchi Firenze – #247 – Original
(Polska WWII Odznaka Ratowniczych Oddziałów Pozadywizyjnych 2 Korpusu – Picchiani & Barlacchi – #247 – Oryginalna)
Key Information
Country of Origin: Poland (produced in Italy for Polish Forces in Exile)
Military Unit: 2nd Polish Corps – Non-Divisional Rescue Units (Ratownicze Oddziały Pozadywizyjne)
Manufacturer: S.A. Picchiani & Barlacchi – Firenze, Italy
Dimensions: Approx. 45.33 × 45.12 mm
Fastening: Original screw-back disk (marked “S.A. Picchiani & Barlacchi – Firenze”)
Serial Number: 247 (stamped on reverse)
Condition: Original wartime piece, enamel damage on left arm of cross, minor wear consistent with age
Rarity: Very rare; low serial number and original fastening intact
Summary
This is an authentic WWII Polish military badge awarded to members of the Rescue Units of the 2nd Polish Corps (Odznaka Ratowniczych Oddziałów Pozadywizyjnych 2 Korpusu). These units were responsible for emergency rescue, engineering, and non-divisional support tasks during the Italian Campaign under General Władysław Anders.
The badge features a red enamel cross with a crowned Polish eagle at the center, overlaid with the numbers "363" and a rescue hook motif. The arms of the cross bear the letters W, S, N, and 2, representing the unit designation.
Produced by S.A. Picchiani & Barlacchi in Florence between 1945–47, this example retains its original screw-back disk and is serial numbered 247. The badge shows period wear and enamel loss on the left arm, which does not detract from its historical and collectible appeal.
Highly sought after by collectors of Polish WWII militaria, especially items linked to the 2nd Corps and the Italian Campaign. Rarely offered for sale in original condition with maker-marked fastener.