Badge of the Nomad Troops of the Spanish Army in the Sahara. 20th Century

This colorful and historic badge is a flagship corresponding to the Spanish Army Saharan Nomad Troops that were active during the era of Francisco Franco. It is a beautiful golden metal piece, with outlined shape and decorated with bright white, blue, brown, red and yellow enamel. The badge in striking condition: the enamel is flawless, with no cracks or missing parts. The badge depicts a Moroccan soldier riding a camel. Under the camel (actually a dromedary) we can see a horizontal half moon with the engraved inscription TROPAS NOMADAS (Spanish for Nomad Troops).The Spanish Saharan Nomad Troops originated from the Nomad Groups, created in 1937 together with the Nomad Grouping of Rio de Oro. In 1959 the groups merged and gave rise to the Saharan Nomad Troops Grouping. The troops were composed of Moroccan soldiers under that belonged to the Spanish Army. It was their task to explore and colonize the Saharan territory, but also to gather information, watch the coasts and other functions. The badge shows one of these soldiers riding a white camel. The soldier is sitting on a brown big saddle attached to the animal on top of a yellow blanket. He wears a blue uniform with red cap and holds a rifle. The animal is beautifully depicted and boasts a proud pose, holding its head up while it walks. The inscription TROPAS NOMADAS engraved in the half moon is enhanced with bright deep blue enamel. Historic and beautiful, this badge is a witness for the convulse days of the Spanish Sahara. Measurements: Width: 34 mm. Height. 51 mm.