101st Airborne Division Badge

Elevate your collection with this authentic 101st Airborne Division badge, a meticulously crafted WWII U.S. military collectible. Embroidered with an iconic eagle emblem on a black wool background, this badge represents the valor of the United States Army’s 101st Airborne Division, renowned for its air assault operations during World War II. Below, we explore its historical significance, material composition, and value for collectors and historians.

Historical Background

The 101st Airborne Division badge was worn by members of the 101st Airborne Division, an elite air assault infantry unit of the U.S. Army, during WWII (1942–1945). Known as the ‘Screaming Eagles,’ the division played a pivotal role in operations like D-Day (June 6, 1944), Operation Market Garden (September 1944), and the Battle of the Bulge (December 1944–January 1945). This badge, worn on uniforms, symbolized the division’s courage and expertise in airborne operations. Crafted to U.S. Army standards, this badge reflects the 101st’s legendary status, making it a significant artifact for WWII studies.

Material & Condition

This 101st Airborne Division badge is embroidered with an eagle emblem on a black wool background, measuring 5 cm by 4 cm and weighing 2g. Designed for sewing onto uniforms, the wool provides a durable base, while the eagle emblem offers a striking contrast. Authentic period pieces may show slight wear, such as wool fraying or thread fading, with consistent stitching indicating wartime production. Collectors should distinguish originals from reproductions, which may use synthetic materials or lack the precision of wartime embroidery.

Collector’s Insight

The 101st Airborne Division badge is a prized piece of WWII U.S. military memorabilia, valued for its connection to the Screaming Eagles and its iconic design. The black wool and eagle emblem make it a focal point for collectors of WWII Allied collectibles, particularly those interested in airborne forces and U.S. military history. Its historical significance lies in its association with the 101st’s heroic WWII campaigns, appealing to enthusiasts of American military heritage.

This badge is ideal for military historians, museum curators, and reenactors seeking accurate uniform components for educational displays or living-history events. For preservation, store the badge in an acid-free, archival-quality sleeve or case to protect against moisture, UV light, and wool degradation. Displaying it in a museum-quality shadow box with historical documentation enhances its educational value, offering a tangible link to the valor of the 101st Airborne Division during WWII.