I'm in agreement with Graeme, that clearer pics would help assess the badge better.
@ Greame: I've seen flat stock catches on other silver grade IABs before, that aren't necessarily "textbook" ("Rettenmeier" for example). Perhaps a closer 3/4 shot of the catch, hinge, and, "crook" in the pin, would reveal more? Possible this one's a "special", but better pics required, as Graeme states. The thicker pin is not "textbook", however, I have seen thicker pins on totally legit silver IABs, accompanied with a flat stock catch, that were never repaired.
The flat catch is not textbook for this type of IAB imo, regardless of other makers that have flat catches. For me this in combination with what looks to be bad detailing to the obverse, with these pictures would put me off.
It might turn out that the badge is fine and the catch isn't but only better pics will help with this.
Regards "Rettenmeier", at this point in time I do not class any IAB as likely made by Rettenmeier. I know there has been a big thread discussion on this, but this was just that, a discussion, with some agreeing with the points put forward and some not. imo not enough to be calling badges Rettenmeier.
Again Graeme, I agree with you that I would not recommend "going" on buying this badge, unless, I could see what's going on with the catch. If it's resoldered, then not original to the badge, and, likely the pin is a replacement as well. However, I do like what I can see from the "foggy" pics, and the patina on the finish looks "right". So, I'm in agreement with you on two fronts: Better pics and the "carefree" use of "Rettenmeier" (my apologies, should have said "Broken-stem"), but just wanted to "point of reference", that's all.
The flat catch is not textbook for this type of IAB imo, regardless of other makers that have flat catches. For me this in combination with what looks to be bad detailing to the obverse, with these pictures would put me off.
It might turn out that the badge is fine and the catch isn't but only better pics will help with this.
Regards "Rettenmeier", at this point in time I do not class any IAB as likely made by Rettenmeier. I know there has been a big thread discussion on this, but this was just that, a discussion, with some agreeing with the points put forward and some not. imo not enough to be calling badges Rettenmeier.
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