Massive F&R GAB for 2nd review

[Dave Wyatt]

So I offered this GAB to Graeme to fill the gap in the massive F&R GAB section in the new database, and he had his concerns but couldn't put his finger on what it was. So I would like to have it discussed again even though it was already discussed once with no problems. IMO, its right as rain, but its better to be safe.

Here is the original thread http://dev.wehrmacht-awards.com/foru...d.php?t=524761

[Thomas Durante]

Hi Wyatt,

I think this badge is questionable due to its very smooth appearance and soft edges to the reverse. However, its appearance is similar to the semi-hollow type of F&R badges (like those found in the Heukemes GAB book Page 74 & 75, so it could very well due to the type of zinc F&R used.) There also appears to be no finish remaining on your badge, other than what is on the hinge and catch. Your badge does not match any known fakes that I can find, and in my opinion it is probably a fine original, but one that is not representative of what I would consider a "textbook" solid-back F&R GAB.

Here is one from Lorenzo's site that I would say has textbook finish and appearance.

Tom

[Dave Wyatt]

Hi Wyatt,

I think this badge is questionable due to its very smooth appearance and soft edges to the reverse. However, its appearance is similar to the semi-hollow type of F&R badges (like those found in the Heukemes GAB book Page 74 & 75, so it could very well due to the type of zinc F&R used.) There also appears to be no finish remaining on your badge, other than what is on the hinge and catch. Your badge does not match any known fakes that I can find, and in my opinion it is probably a fine original, but one that is not representative of what I would consider a "textbook" solid-back F&R GAB.

Here is one from Lorenzo's site that I would say has textbook finish and appearance.

Tom

Yes there is definitely no finish left, other then traces under the bayonet and stick grenade when you look carefully. I also think the scans of it are not the best either and give it a different appearence. I will take actual photos of it again and post them up when I have the badge in hand again.

Regards,

Dave

[Sammler]

I thought I would add this one to thread. I believe it will compare nicely to Lorenzo's example.

[Sammler]

details

[Sammler]

Details 2

[Dave Wyatt]

Sammler, I notice the one you posted has a "guide" for the hinge placement where the one that Thomas posted doesn't, or at least I don't see it. Would that have anything to do with different dies being used? Or, could a "guide" like that have been placed in at anytime?

Here are some better pics of mine....

[Dave Wyatt]

logo and hinge. Looks to be what is left of the finish below where the pin would lay.

[Dave Wyatt]

catch

[Sammler]

F Heukemes GAB book example on page 76 and Lorenzo's example do not show the placement mark. Possibly they have it and this one was just applied off center exposing it. Good observation.

[Thomas Durante]

Hi Dave,

That indeed is a good observation about the hinge guide, I haven't noticed that before. I like the look of the badge that Sammler posted, and the reverse hardware looks very good so I think you hit the nail on the head and that two reeves dies must have been at play here.

I cannot see any differences in the makers marks between your badge, Lorenzo's, Sammler's and the one in the Heukemes book, they all look identical to me. If two dies were involved here, then they must have used the same marking tool to create the maker mark IMO.

Tom