Bulgarian Communist Pilot badge 3rd class, 1973 emission, blue-enameled

This is a Pilot badge of 1973 emission, 3rd class, screw back. Awarded to master pilots, it is embossed and blue-enameled, with an eagle that has spread its wings. On the badge is silver-like wreath of oak and laurel leaves symbolizing the Â“undying combat glory, bravery and heroismÂ”. On the upper part of the badge is placed the State coat of arms made of yellow metal: a lion below which are written the years of 681 (the year of the Bulgarian stateÂ’s foundation) and 1944 (the initial year of the Communist regime). At the base of the badge there can be seen the national, tri-color flag. The reverse shows that the badge was produced by the Bulgarian mint.

What is also to note is the number of the rays which, according to the statute, is 5, whereas on the version of 1973 can be noticed 6. There is also a flying eagle made of grey metal, which according to the statute represents the readiness to defend Â“our peopleÂ’s labor in peaceÂ”. The shield at the base of the wreath is blue and serves as the background of 3 standing for 3rd class.

This is the lowest class of these particular Pilot badges of great value.

According to the statute of 1973 the pilot badge is to be obligatorily worn.