opinions on my new I.A.B

[Frank Heukemes]

Dear all,

For your reference, here is my Wernstein no-catch-plate bronze IAB again.
I always regarded it as a good one, but know the controversy around it. I personally trust it and will keep it until some negative proof might turn up. But I doubt it ever will and am sure these are ok.

Cheers,
Frank

[Frank Heukemes]

reverse

[Ken S]

hello jeorg

first of all if I wanted to send the badge back, then I would have contacted you first!, ken
thanks for the comments frank

[Philippe DB]

Hi Guy's,

Just did some further thinking on these Wernstein IAB's and came to the conclusion that they are original based upon the following.

1. These were probably early IAB's, the quality of the metal was stil good and there was no need to use a hinge and catch plate.

2. The general features of these badges are a perfect match to the later variant with hing and catch plate but the detailing is superior.

3. All these early badges already show 2 flaws on the wreath that will become more visible on the later version. I highlighted these weak spot on my late badge. (cfr. scan) The upper left oakleave on mine is extremly thin just as the lower right oakleave that almost lost every detail. I think that this just is the result of the fact that Wernstein always used the very same die for there IAB's. Even when it realy was completly worn down they still used it with my example as a result.

4. Wernstein probably used a very high quality finish (comparable to JFS or GWL) on there badges. This would account for the fact that most of the early badges remained in such good condition.

So Ken, you have a very nice original badge and I will have to ad yet another one to my shopping list.

KR
Philippe

[Ken S]

thanks phillip

thanks phillip I'm feeling much better about it now. sorry for all the trouble guys, but we all know from time to time we see a piece in our collection that makes us ask questions. you guys are great and again thanks for all the help.
ken

[Tony Barto]

Hi Ken;

I see nothing alarming or unusual about your bronze IAB. I also believe it to be an original.