Poland WWII Infantry & Motorised Cavalry Officer Instructor Badge – Scarce – Original
Country of Origin: Poland (issued in Scotland during WWII)
Branch: Infantry & Motorised Cavalry – Officer Cadet School Instructor Badge (Odznaka Instruktorska Oficerów Piechoty i Kawalerii Zmotoryzowanej)
Period: WWII era
Material: Brass / white metal with silver and gilt finish
Dimensions: Approx. 44.85 × 44.90 mm
Fastening: Screw-back with brass disk
Condition: Original period badge, one retaining side wire is broken, which causes slight movement of the eagle within the wreath. The original nut on the reverse side has a screw attached to it, which allows it to screw onto the post securely on the badge’s threaded post. Wear consistent with age and service use, with visible patina. Please refer to the photos for details.
Rarity: Scarce badge, especially in original wartime manufacture form
Summary
This scarce WWII Infantry and Motorised Cavalry Officer Cadet School Instructor Badge was issued in Scotland during the war to qualified instructors serving in Polish Army training units.
The design features the crowned Polish eagle in silver finish with a gilt “S” over its breast, all surrounded by a laurel wreath. The top of the wreath bears the inscription SZKO CJA, denoting its association with officer cadet and instructor training schools.
These badges were awarded to officers who completed specialized instructor courses and served in a training capacity for Polish forces in exile. This example retains its original screw-back fastening and brass nut. One of the side stabilising wires is broken, resulting in slight movement of the eagle, but the fastening remains secure. The piece shows patina and wear consistent with wartime use.
Highly collectible among militaria enthusiasts focusing on Polish WWII insignia and items from the Polish Armed Forces in the West.