CupAL IAB unmarked?

[afrikasandman]

Gentlemen,

Picked this guy up out of the woodwork there in Germany today and am curious who the maker is. I find it odd that such a stunning badge isn't marked but I guess they can't all be marked. Its in really nice shape with just light wear to the high points that allows the copper color to shine through. I really like it but have no idea who the maker is though as badges are not my thing. I would appreciate some assistance with an identification if possible. Matt

[afrikasandman]

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[Giel VW]

Hi Matt

Very nice piece. Maker is Wiedmann. The copper you see a a copper coating they used on the zink to preserve the silver finish a bit better (so no cupal here).

[schwelch]

Hi Matt,

as already written a very nice zinc IAB in E. Ferd Wiedmann design.

BR
Sven

[wilhelm Saris]

Giel VW:
no cupal here and Giel is right!

[afrikasandman]

Thank you gentlemen! I wasn't sure if it was CupAl or not, Im not a medal guy but I saw it and picked it up. Seems odd that they would copper coat a zink badge.. why not just make a higher quality one from the start

Matt

[John T]

Because the higher quality metals were used toward the war effort, that is why the base metal of badges and medals deteriorated-

[Blued]

Still a desirable piece IMO. I have one as well.

[Thomas Durante]

Thank you gentlemen! I wasn't sure if it was CupAl or not

Hi Matt,

A good way to tell the difference would be to weigh it, Cupal IABs are about 1/2 the weight of zinkers.

As John says, starting around 1941/1942, copper and brass began to be rationed for the war effort and thererfore zinc because the primary base metal for most combat and qualification badges. There was still a desire for good looking awards, hence some makers using a thin layer of copper or brass plating over the zinc base metal so that the finish would adhere better.

Tom

[afrikasandman]

I appreciate the info everyone, always something new to learn in this hobby. Matt