Rare student badge associated with the Zofia Strzałkowska Educational Institutes in Lviv, one of the most modern and prestigious private educational institutions for girls in the Polish lands. The school was founded in 1895 by the distinguished educator and social activist Zofia Strzałkowska, who established the first private girls' secondary school in Lviv. It subsequently developed into the largest educational institution of its kind in Poland.
In 1913, the school moved into its purpose-built premises at 22 Zielona Street, designed according to the most advanced educational standards of the time. In addition to the girls' gymnasium, the complex housed a teacher-training college, a boarding school, and a Montessori kindergarten. The institution became renowned for its high academic standards, progressive educational methods, and strong patriotic values. During the First World War, the building was placed at the disposal of the Eastern Legion and later served as a military hospital, while many of its students went on to participate in the defence of Lwów and the struggle for Polish independence.
The present badge is oval in form and manufactured in metal with red and white enamel. The centre features the school's decorative monogram, while the surrounding border bears the inscription "Zakłady Naukowe" ("Educational Institutes"). It is a rare surviving memento of one of the most prestigious girls' schools of historic Lviv.
Fastening in the form of a safety pin.
Badge from the Collection of Lech Kokociński, Honorary President of the Polish Numismatic Society.
Dimensions 35 x 27 mm
