1. Armee Christmas 1915

Less valued, often not very spectacular pieces of cap badge collections are the rather common badges of higher units. Some of these are simpler pieces, often decorated with the famous portrait of the monarch. However, there are also those that depict battle scenes. The badges of the Isonzo Army stand out among these. Despite their large number, they are sought after and relatively expensive.

The Christmas badge of the 1st Army was made at the end of 1915. It is one of the most common badges. To my knowledge, Kappenabzeichen were also made for Christmas 1914. Among them was the portrait badge of the monarch of the 1st Army. It was perhaps the first real cap badge of the Great War. A new design was made for the second Christmas, this time with a trench scene. I think the depiction is attractive and expressive. The badge was mainly made of grey metal, but silver copies also survived. Of course, those are rarer and more expensive.

I brought up the issue of army badges not only because they are relatively easy to collect, and the collection can grow quickly. But also because many are truly valuable and attractive works. Thirdly, because they go well with the postcard used as a background in the post. The postcard is much rarer than the badge. It is also a spectacular, beautiful piece.