Croupon

[Robin Lumsden]

I've often wondered why German military belts are often stamped 'Croupon'.

I always thought this was some sort of maker's mark.

Well, today I found out in a roundabout way that the term 'Croupon' is a technical one used in the tanning/skinning industry to describe the thickest and strongest part of the hide.

So, presumably, 'Croupon' is a quality mark denoting the thickness of the belt leather.

Apologies to the ranchers among you, but this was news to me!

Best regards,

Robin.

[Marc verstraete]

You are correct Robin,

Croupon is a marking of quality, other such marking also exist. such as “Kernstuck”

The first time I saw “Croupon” on a belt it was a SS officer belt (probably 20 years ago) .I let it past as the word “croupon” sounded to French to me. Could not believe it was original.
Marc

[Langemark]

Note that such quality "Croupon" markings are aslo being faked !
Mark

[Jean Pierre Redeuilh]

Robin,

With all the contribution you did to this hobby along with the amount of informations you brought us during those years, I think most will "forgive" this "greatest among the great lack of knowledge"

[John T]

I was told that Croupon was a French Company that made belts before the war for the Third Reich...and I often see that mark on early belts mated with SS ems...but the above explaination makes sense. Good job Robin!

Johnny