Lightning bolts removed?

[James Clark]

I've read that the Radio Operator/Air Gunners badge sometimes had the lightning bolts removed in order to fill in as the Air Gunners/Flight Engineers badge.

Is this true? If so, does this mean that it was done during the war (by the recipient/jeweller) or later by fraudsters?

I feel that this badge has been altered in this way. Note how some of the talons have been clipped during the operation.

Does anyone have any views?






Just for good measure, the retaining clasp has been repaired:



Regards,

James

[ 18 November 2001: Message edited by: James Clark ]

[ 18 November 2001: Message edited by: James Clark ]

[ 18 November 2001: Message edited by: James Clark ]

[Jody]

Hi James,
It was in fact done during the war. I had one from a veteran once that was altered during the war. Keep in mind it was also done after the war as well. I knew a guy that did it to a badge in the late 70's so he could get more for it.

So you have to be very careful. That is a reason why most collectors prefer the issued badges without bolts and not the altered ones.
Regards,
Jody