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NATO, Allied Forces Mediterranean (AFMED) Command Breast Badge, Cold War Era

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Start price: £40

Estimated price: £40 - £50

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Description

This is an authentic Cold War era command breast badge for the NATO Allied Forces Mediterranean (AFMED). Headquartered in Floriana, Malta, between 1952 and 1967, AFMED was a significant multi-national command responsible for the security of the Mediterranean sea lanes during the early years of the North Atlantic Alliance. The insignia is designed as a shield-shaped gilded base with a textured field. The central circular emblem contains a hard-fired blue enamel border inscribed with the command title in gilt lettering. The inner motif displays a blue map of the Mediterranean region on a globe, overlaid with a silver-toned anchor and surmounted by a spreading eagle, symbolising the integrated maritime, land, and air capabilities of the command. The reverse is clearly stamped with the prestigious maker’s mark of S. Johnson, Firenze (Florence), an Italian firm renowned for producing high-quality military and civil awards. The multi-piece construction is evidenced by the four metal tabs securing the central emblem to the shield.