Thanks Olham.

In my opinion, the German pilot's badge also looks very nice. But it can't quite compete against the fancy design of the Austrians. No WW1 pilot's badge that I'm familiar with can. A couple of later designs come close though (hint: Finland, Bulgaria). Operative word being close.

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Oh Hasse, your latest acquisition is truly a thing of beauty. Well done Sir! Also, I agree completely about the Austrian pilot badges, they are works of art. If ever I can afford one for my own collection ...

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Thanks Lou. Keep your eyes open - I was able acquire this badge from a militaria auction house at a sum well below the usual price for such items. I was actually sure that somebody would outbid me in the end, but fortunately that didn't happen.

I guess times may be good for collectors of such items.
The older Germans sell such things like stamps, or medals, more now.