EK1 with brass core!!!!!

[Dion]

Hey Guys,

Today I purchased a para grouping which consists of an EK1, Para badge, EK2 and a WB in silver.
I have several questions regarding the EK1 in particular and I`m guessing that there`ll be some great answeres here by the experts
The para badge is in the appropriate section for discussion too.

1) Is this one real, and can anyone determine who the maker is?
2) Where these reserved exclusivley for the Kriegsmarine?
3) Judging on its rarity, what is the ballpark figure in value? ( NO, I`m not selling)

Any comments would be greatly appreciated!

Dion

[Dion]

2

[Dion]

3

[Darrell]

1. Original --> W&L is maker.
2. No. False rumor started eons ago.
3. Now days? probably not as much as it really is worth. Things are not selling wells in these times (Maybe $200-$250 depending on what day it is and who's looking with money to sepnd).

[byterock]

Well I can answer #2 without any problem

No the Brass (buntmetal) was not reserved exclusively for the Kriegsmarine, or anyone else for that matter, this type of core (or its close cousin the iron core with a copper/brass wash) was a early war version that sort of slipped though the QA slots (more likely it was easer to press than iron) it was strictly speaking against the rules to make them out of anything else but iron and later in the war these regs were strictly adhered to.

The old 'Kriegsmarine' line is just that a line used by dealers and others to boost up the price of a cross, as it does make some sort of sense to give a sailor a medal that does not rust so it is easily believable.

Unfortunately the fact of the matter is the actual metal used for this type if core is not 'Naval brass' or 'Admiralty brass' (the types used on ships) but I think buntmetal or tombac and even sometimes zink which would 'rust' (corrode) just as fast as painted Iron

These are not that 'rare' and do not command premium prices

[WEISNER]

W&L stamped the mm on the underside of the pin in some cases, have you looked for a very small '100' stamp there?
Kevin

[Dion]

Many thanks guys
I really appreciate the quick answeres and the reality of things! Heard the rumour years back, but never really knew what to make of it??
Now I do!!

Dion