Poland, Republic. Two Infantry Division Badges

Includes:

1. 3rd Carpathian Rifle Division Badge: in silvered bronze, obverse illustrating a Monte Cassino moitf cross with a pine tree in the centre, the tree fronted by a "3" with the letters "D S K" above, crowned spread-winged eagle between bayonets, with "TOBBUK" above a crescent moon at the base of the tree, reverse inscribed "WIARA-WYTRWALOSC-ZWYCIESTWO" (Faith, Perseverance, Victory), measuring 39.5 mm (w) x 43.2 mm (h), maker marked "F.M. LORIOLI. MILANO-ROMA" on the screwback, residue evident on the reverse.

2. 5th Kresowa Infantry Division Badge: three-piece construction, insignia in bronze with dark yellow enamels and illustrating a charging buffalo, mounted to a silvered bronze cross-shaped base, with ball finials on all eight points, with flared devices between each arm, the number "5" on the arm at 12 o'clock, the letters "K P D" on the other arms, the British 8th Army insignia protruding from the arm at 6 o'clock, measuring 40 mm (w) x 41.8 mm (h), maker marked "F.M. LORIOLI. MILANO-ROMA" on the screwback, intact enamels, silvering wear evident on the reverse.

Together, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The 3rd Carpathian Rifle Division was formed in Syria in 1940, the badge being designed by Lt. Z. Ochnio. The 5th Kresowa Infantry was formed in the Soviet Union in 1941 and later evacuated to Iraq to form with the 2nd Polish Corps under British command.