Assmann maker marks

[Jon Barter]

Gentlemen,

I would be grateful for any information on this subject. I have been offered a very nice looking tomback Observers badge, and I have been scouring this website to find a match for this variation in the 'A' makers mark. On this one the two bottom feet of the A angle up, at right angles to the two downward legs of the A, rather than being in a horitontal line, and also, on the middle bar of the A, the two extentions that go out either side of the legs are also angled up. There is not a clear bar at the top, more just a large round dot. The seller assures me this one of three variations of this mark, and references a book that I do not possess, namely ' Previtera Combat Badges of the Third Reich Volume Two The Luftwaffe'.
I'm sure you guys will know whether this is true or false. Thanks in advance for any guidance, and apologies for no pic . Jon .

[Thomas Durante]

Hi John,

I think you are referring to this type of Assmann mark. It is true that this mark was also used on Assmann badges, but I don't believe I have ever seen it on an Observer badge. The one shown below is from an Assmann Para badge, from JTWest's collection I believe and was stamped into the reverse of the eagle. However, on Assmann Observer's, the "A" mark was in raised relief and an integral part of the reverse die, so I would be surprised to see the maker mark you describe on an Assmann Observer.

Pics of your badge are needed to evaluate it, as even the Assmann maker mark has been faked pretty well.

Tom

[Jon Barter]

Hi Tom, thanks for the quick reply. I'd love to post some pics but I do not have that facility. To be honest I'm pretty sure its a duff one. The wreath looks wrong and the A looks like a plain capiltal A which someone has stamped a few smaller capital T's on to, to simulate an Assmann A. I'm no expert though ( by a long way) and I'd appreciate a definate yes or no.
Perhaps if you emailed me on jon_barter@uk.ibm.com I could attach some pics . Thanks Jon.