Poland – Commemorative Badge of the 1st Rifle Brigade, 1st Polish Corps (Scotland 1942 – Kirkwood & Son)
Description:
Authentic WWII-era commemorative badge of the 1st Rifle Brigade (1 Brygada Strzelców) of the Polish 1st Corps formed in exile in the United Kingdom under British command.
Badge Details:
Dimensions: 66.67 mm x 39.98 mm
Design:
Two-piece construction: stylized crowned eagle in diving pose mounted on a thistle wreath
Inscribed with “1 BRYG STRZELC”
Mounted on original maroon felt backing
Reverse Markings:
Clearly stamped: “SCOTLAND 1942 K&S” – produced by Kirkwood & Son, Edinburgh
Classified as Variant 13a, described in:
“The Polish Army in the West 1939–47: Commemorative and Specialist Badges – A Collector’s Companion (2020)” by Tony Leszczuk & Krzysztof Barbarski
Construction & Condition:
Eagle originally attached by two rivets, which have been repaired – one is replaced and one shows signs of re-soldering (see detailed photos)
Original backplate and securing disc included
Honest wear and patina; no post-war alterations
Historical Context:
This badge represents the 1st Rifle Brigade, part of the Polish I Corps, which was formed in the UK after the fall of Poland and France. These troops trained extensively in Scotland and were integrated into Allied defense forces. The thistle wreath is symbolic of Scotland, where the unit was based and equipped.
Important Note:
Contrary to occasional misattributions, this eagle design is not a symbol of airborne or elite units, but specific to this badge's artistic style and composition.
Collectible Value:
A rare and fully documented wartime badge from an officially recognized variant, with original wartime manufacture and visible repair. A valuable piece for collectors of:
Polish exile forces
WWII Allied badges
Scottish-made military insignia
Referenced and catalogued militaria
Please refer to all photos for detailed condition.