Armored Train No. 15 was formed on September 10, 1919 at the railroad workshops in Lviv. As early as February 4, 1919, it took part in the fighting with the Ukrainians, supporting the capture of Kowel. In peacetime it was assigned to the 1st Armored Train Squadron.
In September 1939, as "Paderewski," it was armed with 2 100 mm howitzers, 2 75 mm cannons and 22 ckms. It completed mobilization on September 3, as the Supreme Command's reserve, and was assigned to the "Pomerania" Army. On September 4 it left the Legionowo base, reaching Kutno on September 6, where its crew was exposed to constant air raids.
On September 13, "Paderewski" supported the Pomeranian Cavalry Brigade in the battle of the Bzura River. It fought, among others, at Łęczyca, Rząśna, Jackowia and Urzecz, and on September 16 it supported the attack of the 70th Infantry Regiment in the Sobota area, successfully repelling a German attack and an air raid.
Cut off from retreat, the train was destroyed by its own crew on September 17 on orders from Capt. Gawełczyk. Some soldiers managed to break through to Warsaw.
Armored train badges are rare. One-piece, made in silver-plated brass, minted with counter.
Diameter: 40 mm.
Anonymous nut, very well fitted to the post.
Diameter: 25 mm.
Comes with a yellow fabric washer, diameter ~31 mm.
