WW2 Polish Order of Polonia Restituta Lapel Pin

The WW2 Polish Order of Polonia Restituta Lapel Pin is a small insignia representing one of Poland’s highest state orders, established in 1921. Awarded to civilians and military personnel for outstanding contributions to the nation, the Order was widely issued throughout the Second World War, both in occupied Poland and within Polish armed forces in exile. This pin typically features a red and white enameled Maltese cross, with a central medallion displaying the motto “Polonia Restituta” (Poland Restored) and the Polish white eagle. The reverse often bears the year of inception, “1918,” signifying Poland’s regained independence. Designed for wear on civilian clothing, the label pin served as a discreet means for recipients to indicate their decoration in less formal settings. Such pins are valued as historical artifacts, offering insight into Polish resistance, recognition systems, and the wider narrative of Poland’s role during World War II.