History. The Turkish military did not have an Air Force, but had aviation units in both the Army & Navy. When WW1 broke out, Turkey had fewer than a dozen aircraft. Germany provided aircraft to Turkey and it’s aircraft numbers peeked at 90 in late 1916. That’s why this WW1 Ottoman Empire Army Pilot Badge is so rare.

This badge is all original.  It has not been cleaned (Which is common with these badges) and has patina all over the badge, which gives it an appealing old look.  On the back the pin is in a banjo shape with a barrel hinge and a double C catch.  Overall it’s Excellent++.

A19011