SAP, SPECIAL TASK FORCE - OPERATOR BADGE (1st type) - ORIGINAL (numbered)- all pins

 SAP, SPECIAL TASK FORCE - OPERATOR BADGE -ORIGINAL- all pins- BRILLIANT COLLECTORS ITEM OPPORTUNITY

1st type Operator badge - original. ONLY A FEW ISSUED EVER IN THE HISTORY OF THE SPECIAL TASK FORCE

Authentic number on the reverse (below 50)- which means it was awarded to an operator within the first 50 members ever receiving the badge in the history of the Special Task Force.

Only the 1st type badges were officially issued with a stamped number.

An Operator badge is only awarded after serving 2 years as an Operator at the STF, being accepted by the rest of the operators as trustworthy and loyal, also after undergoing the rest of the supportive skill courses equipping which does not form part of the selection process. The badge is not issued after selection, like the SADF Special Forces Operator badge.

1st type had a 2 pin construction, while 2nd type have 3 pins

The Emblem

In gold, a swooping peregrine falcon; in its claws a silver fork positioned over a silver sword pointing downward, and around it all a laurel wreath.

Symbolism

1) The sword has a dual meaning, symbolising firstly the sword of justice, as this is the police unit tasked with ensuring that justice prevails. Secondly, it symbolises the training of the Special Task Force member in combat operations on land. 
2) The peregrine falcon symbolises the speed and skill of the unit’s attack on the enemy, and the capability to launch an air strike- it is based peregrine falcon which is the fastest striking falcon.
3) The fork is the fork of Neptune, the sea god. Special Task Force members are trained in scuba diving. It is further the responsibility of the Special Task Force to evacuate seafaring vessels during an act of piracy. It also symbolises a sea strike competency. 
4) The laurel wreath symbolises the prestige of passing a rigorous selection process to be accepted as an operator in the Special Task Forces.