A Rare American & Canadian Second War Hat & Leaf Squadron Membership Badge GTRexclude circa 1942-43

circa 1942-43

cypher of Victor Emanuele III on lid

stating that had he no previous military service

but gave up the farming and grocery business

A Rare American & Canadian Second War Hat & Leaf Squadron Membership Badge GTRexclude circa 1942-43Sterling silver with red, white, blue and green enamels, hallmarked, maker marked "BIRKS" and marked "STERLING" on the reverse, illustrating an American top hat fronting a maple leaf, on a wings base, a ribbon banner below inscribed "HAT & LEAF SQUADRON", 14. 5 mm x 38. 5 mm, horizontal pinback, extremely fine. Footnote: All Americans who served with the Royal Canadian Air Force prior to January 1943 were eligible for membership in the Hat & Leaf