SHuCo 41 - over my head

[Ruki vyerkh]

Here's a SHuCo 41 marked IAB with a short (ie, measured vertically) hinge plate. I have been told (by another collector) the taller hinge plate is a solid indicator of authenticity, while a badge with the shorter hinge might or might not be authentic, depending on the SHuCo 41 mark. Specifically: the spacing of the letters and numerals in relation to each other. I have compared marks on pix of known authentic and known fake to each other until growing bleary and - dumb me - the difference is eluding me. I can't spot it.
I submit the attached image, hoping someone more adept than I can make a ruling. Thanks in advance.
- Paul in Ohio

[Ruki vyerkh]

and a not terribly great view of the front ...

[Philippe DB]

Hi Paul,

Just to make sure maybe you could post a picture of the complete reverse too, but based upon what I can see I'm quit confident that this badges is OK.

I think the small hinge is more common encountered on this maker but both types are ok.

Look at this thread, where Jan shows two of his Shuco IAB's, one with the small and one with the larger hinge.

http://dev.wehrmacht-awards.com/foru...B&pagenumber=2

These IAB's are also commonly encountered with a catch opening to the left. Is that the case on your's too?

KR
Philippe

[Ruki vyerkh]

Philippe,
You are correct, the catch opens to the left. The catch plate is basically rectangular in shape, flat edges top and bottom, rounded corners, slightly rounded sides.
I was using a borrowed camera and neglected to get a full view of the back. If I can borrow the camera again in the next few days, I'll post one of the entire back.
Much thanks,
- Paul in Ohio