Unmarked Auxiliary Cruiser

[George Stimson]

And ideas as the authenticity/maker of this one? To me the reverse looks like the Förster & Barth 5.11 variant in Weber/Skora, but the obverse has differences.

[Norm F]

And ideas as the authenticity/maker of this one? To me the reverse looks like the Förster & Barth 5.11 variant in Weber/Skora, but the obverse has differences.

Hi George.,

It's the Hilfskreuzer of the "unknown flatback" maker. There are variations based on reverse finish and catch configurations but they all have variable hand filing to the outlines as all KM "flatbacks", and some have highly bevelled margins like the one you posted. It's understandable that you noticed the similarity to F&B since all the KM flatbacks use the same obverse designs as the Pforzheim makers.

Here's another HK badge variant of this type and an S-Boat presumably from the same maker. The HK wasn't included in the book but there's an example of the S-Boat variant 7.08 in volume 2.

They carry the same disclaimer as all KM flatbacks - generally poor quality and it's unknown if they were late wartime (i.e. post-bombing of Pforzheim), post-war or both. There are none appearing so far with iron-clad provenance.

Best regards,
---Norm

[Norm F]

Here's the equivalent Minesweeper badge which again comes in a variety of reverse finishes. The finish on the wreath of the upper example (mine) dissolves in acetone although the silvering doesn't. The rather crude lower example with the replaced catch is quite similar to the HK badge you posted with the filed down "flat-top" eagle head. Flatbacks are undoubtedly the least desirable of all Minesweeper badges.

Best regards,
---Norm

[Norm F]

And finally, as posted previously, a compilation of flatback Destroyers showing the variety/evolution in finish and reverse setups on these things.

And here's just one of several threads discussing the flatbacks.
http://dev.wehrmacht-awards.com/foru...86#post4737386

Best regards,
---Norm

[5ribbonbar]

Norm...you take my breath away. Always a great lesson with your posts.

Cheers,

Glen

[George Stimson]

Wow, Norm! Thanks very much!

[AndyC]

Thanks Norm for knowledge in KM badges, its always nice to read your comments
I learn more and more from you


Andy

[John R.]

Excellent Norm.

[Gensui]

(off topic):
Norm, I don't know your profession, but working at the CSI might be a very good job for you!).

Your posts are always an educational lesson!
BR,
Chris