Description
German WWII Luftwaffe Standard Bearer’s Gorget
This is an original German World War II Luftwaffe Standard Bearer’s gorget, a ceremonial insignia worn by the bearer of a Luftwaffe Standarte during formal parades, unit ceremonies, and official state functions. Gorgets of this specific pattern were produced by C.E. Juncker of Berlin.
The obverse displays an exceptionally crisp and highly detailed Luftwaffe national eagle clutching a swastika, flanked by stylized standards and flags, all executed in fine relief. The overall design is bold and unmistakably ceremonial, reflecting the prestige and visibility of the standard bearer’s role within Luftwaffe formations. The surface finish retains strong definition throughout the devices, with no loss of detail to the eagle, wreath elements, or central insignia.
The gorget is near complete with its full-length neck chain, constructed of interlinked metal segments designed to distribute weight evenly when worn. The reverse is correctly covered in Luftwaffe blue-grey wool, a textbook feature of these gorgets, providing both comfort and stability against the uniform while also serving as an important indicator of originality. The wool backing remains intact and well-preserved, though evidence of later a replacement are present. The center clip has been lost to time.
Luftwaffe standard bearer gorgets were never common items, as they were issued only to designated ceremonial personnel and were not worn in field service. As a result, surviving examples—particularly complete, correctly attributed Juncker-made pieces with their chains—are increasingly scarce. This gorget represents an important ceremonial artifact of the Luftwaffe, embodying the pageantry, symbolism, and rigid visual hierarchy of the Third Reich’s air force.
A highly desirable piece for advanced collectors of Luftwaffe insignia, ceremonial regalia, or Juncker-manufactured awards and accoutrements.
