U-boat Combat Clasp?

[Tom Yanacek]

Hey guys,

I would like to hear some opinions on this clasp. It looks fairly convincing, but I think it is a fake because the maker markings look too perfectly aligned. The base metal doesn't look like zinc either. These are the only pictures available, and I cannot provide a weight or measurements as I do not have the piece in-hand. Never owned one of these clasps, so I would appreciate any and all assistance.

Thank you and best regards,
Tom

[Tom Yanacek]

here is the reverse:

[Tom Yanacek]

markings:

[Tom Yanacek]

Another issue is that I see no evidence of the circular boss for the catch crimp. The more I look at this one, the more I don't like it. Looking cast. I would still appreciate other opinions on this clasp.

Best regards,
Tom

[Jody]

U-boat Clasp

Hi Tom,
I don't feel too good about it either. Not one for my collection. BTW, is the eagle missing its feet? I have my mint original example posted numerous time on this forum and you can compare the lettering.

Regards,
Jody

[Tom Yanacek]

Hello Jody,

Thank you very much for sharing your opinion and confirming my doubts about this clasp. Not sure about the eagle's talons as I only have these pictures and that area is not too clear. It does look like some of the detail is either weak or totally absent.

Best regards,
Tom

[Richard]

Lack of detail and lettering does not conform to known originals. There are too many red flags on this one.
Richard V

[Don D.]

The reverse shows all the signs of chemical aging also.

[Tom Yanacek]

Hello Richard and Don,

Thanks for the additional comments.

Best regards,
Tom

[Darrell]

Hi Tom, you can't argue with the gentlemen above.

The thing that sticks out right off the bat is the finish. LIke you stated in the first post, it appears unlike the zinc applied coating or how it looks after 60 years +.

That could be due to the base material itself.

[Tom Yanacek]

Thanks Darrell.

[John R.]

It is a fake. John

[Ludwig]

Stay away!