Poland – WWII Cap Eagle Badge (Orzełek WP) – G.J. Garret, Toronto Canada – Rare Polish Forces Emblem
Original Polish Army eagle cap badge (Orzełek) produced by G.J. Garret, Toronto – Canada, a known but very scarce manufacturer of insignia for Polish forces in the West during and shortly after World War II.
These eagles were issued to Polish troops stationed, trained, or re-equipped in Canada and are not commonly encountered, especially in original worn condition.
Details:
Crowned eagle with outstretched wings and finely detailed feathers
Amazon-style shield at the base, classic wartime shape
Reverse features two broken lugs (attachment points) – a common result of field wear and age
No maker’s mark visible, but form and material are consistent with attributed Garret manufacture
Material: Silver-tone alloy with aged patina
Dimensions: approx. 55.37 mm × 35.90 mm
Historical note:
This specific version is documented by Tomasz Zawistowski in his authoritative reference book “Polskie orły do czapek w latach 1939–1945” (Polish Cap Eagles 1939–1945), published by Bellona. It is shown on page 43, illustration no. 60, and attributed to G.J. Garret, Toronto.
This type of eagle was worn by members of the Polish Armed Forces in the West — including soldiers trained in Canada or temporarily stationed there post-evacuation. Production by G.J. Garret is well documented but very limited in number, making surviving examples rare and desirable for collectors.
Condition:
Front: Very good – excellent detail and sharp casting, no visible cracks
Back: Both reverse lugs are broken off (visible in close-up photo); this does not affect authenticity but should be noted for display or restoration purposes
No restoration; item remains in its original state