Canadian RCAF Women’s Purse Badge

The Canadian RCAF Women’s Purse Badge is an emblem historically associated with the Royal Canadian Air Force, specifically designed for female personnel. This badge was typically affixed to personal items such as purses and served as a discrete but recognizable indicator of affiliation with the RCAF. The design commonly features the organization’s insignia, often including the stylized eagle, crown, and maple leaf motif, rendered in metal with enamel detailing. The badge usually measures approximately 2 to 4 centimeters in width, incorporating either pin-back or clip fastenings for secure attachment to fabric or leather surfaces. During the Second World War and ensuing decades, such badges were issued or made available to women serving in various support and operational capacities. The item represents a piece of military heritage reflective of changing roles and increasing visibility of women within the Canadian armed forces during the twentieth century. Condition, maker marks, and material compositions may vary by period and manufacturer.