SOS Bronze LRNF

[Leroy]

After looking for more than 20 years, I finally found this at the SOS. I apologize for the photo quality, but I am shaky today with the camera (I've got the flu).

This clasp has all the exact die characteristics and flaws of every original I have ever seen . The black on the wreath is almost a "wash", but it is definitely all there.

[Leroy]

Back

[Leroy]

Rivet

[George L]

Interesting to see the holes where the center meets the leaves are filled in. Was this known to be found on war time clasps?

[Leroy]

George,
Absolutely. In fact, this is very often seen on later war zinc clasps of many types. Of the long range fighter clasps (whether day or night) this is probably more standard than not. Prior to getting this one last week, I had 6 of the 8 long range clasps, 5 directly from vets. With the exception of a gold long range day fighter by Osang, all had the holes omitted and all exhibited identical die flaws to the wreath area and on the lower edge of the left side (viewed from the reverse) of the leaves.
Best,
Leroy

[William J]

Very nice clasp! I just wanted to mention that I purchased two identical unmarked recon clasps in great condition from a vet's son and neither had any holes at the wreath, and there is no doubt they are 100% correct!

[Leroy]

I am putting this back up, in the hope that Mark, Gene or some of our other Luftwaffe members can comment on it. It may be included in a book and I want to insure that everyone who knows about these feels comfortable with it.
Thanks,
Leroy

[Gene]

Leroy,

Any chance of posting sharper, better pics, maybe in natural light? I have a Schlachtflieger clasp in Gold made like this but clearer photos would help--

Gene

[Leroy]

Gene,
I hope these are a little better. Taken 10 minutes ago in natural light.
Leroy

[Leroy]

Back-pin

[Leroy]

Back - pin open

[Robert P.]

I conratulate you on your find. Anybody who has looked for twenty years for any kind of a badge should be excited about it! I, myself, never knew how rare these were until now. Again, congratulations. I know you must have been very happy when you finally had it in your hands at the show.

Robert

[Leroy]

Robert,
Thanks! Yes, I was very excited to see it after looking all these years. Then, after it came out of the case and I could confirm that it had the right die flaws, the dealer could have named almost any price. Luckily, it was very reasonable and actually pretty in line for an ordinary bronze grade clasp. Now, if I can just find the standard gold w/o pendant for a LRNF, I will be content.
Best,
Leroy

[Robert P.]

Maybe at the MAX. I called today for reservations at the Radisson - waiting list of 45. I'm on the list, but also booked at the Holiday Inn in Monroeville. Joe D and Marc Garlasco got me hooked on shows with this year's SOS being my first official show. Thanks you guys!

I walked away from the SOS with two tunics and some other smaller items, just as happy as you. Lots of fun.

Robert

[Jos L C]

Looks like a good Zerstörer clasp,congrats..

Jos.