ARMY M43 Cap for Review

[Milton]

Hello folks. I picked up a small lot of WWII items at a local auction this past weekend and wanted to toss this M43 cap up for review. I've not yet hit it w/ the blacklight, etc, but from my initial impressions it looked pretty good (price was right anyway so I took a chance). Appreciate any constructive input. The only marking on it is the size stamp (59) and the eagle is in gray thread. The cap appears almost un-worn with just some light stains from storage. Thanks!

[Milton]

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[Milton]

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[Milton]

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[Milton]

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[Milton]

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[Glenn McInnes]

Reproduction,IMO.






Glenn

[Lenny W]

Reproduction,IMO.






Glenn

i have to agree w/Glenn a repro

[Milton]

Thanks for writing folks. Can you give me some idea as to why you believe so? From a standpoint of construction, etc, it all appears correct. Since posting yesterday, I've also hit it w/ a black light as well and no-glow whatsoever. Can you provide some details to substantiate your assertions? Other items I got w/ this cap are spot-on original. Thx!

[Milton]

Nothing else to add?? Disappointing, as I, as I assume other forum members would be interested in some additional, factual details from this caps detractors as to why they believe it's a reproduction with which we might glean some useful information other than one line "IMO"s....I won't hold my breath but will perhaps keep my fingers crossed-ever hopeful.

[John Huff]

Can ypu take pics in natural sunlight without flash?

[Paul G]

I don't know these caps, but from what I have read in the past, caps with just a size stamp and no rb# or makers mark are suspect to begin with.

PG-

[BenVK]

Just a size mark on the lining isn't a red flag in itself.

It's frustrating when you're trying to learn about these and details aren't forthcoming but the reason is that we don't want to give away information so the fakers can correct their mistakes.

What I will say though is that this cap has the characteristics of a modern day reproduction. If you compare it with some of the originals posted on the forum, the differences should be apparent.

[Milton]

Thanks gents. I've seen many variations in these caps as well, and I don't personally see any real "red flags" on this one. In person, it shows light age, doesn't glow at all in black light, and appears to be constructed as other original examples I've seen on others dealers sites. None of these things "guarantee" anything outright, obviously, but DO factor in its favor (to me at least). I for one, would rather see a simple size marking rather than an over abundance of factory nomenclature stamped all over the lining in an overzealous attempt to deceive. I've had both good and bad feedback on this one, but none have been forthcoming w/ details which is very frustrating, as this is supposed to be a discussion forum from my understanding. If anyone wants to enlighten me as to the differences between this particular piece and others, in a more "off line" format, please feel free to PM me. I'm sure there's nothing that'd be disclosed in an open dialogue in this format that'd give away any details that the "fakers" couldn't glean from any fine reference material available anywhere. Thx again for dropping in!

[John Huff]

Black light is of no value really except for items in white fabric. (and with numerous exceptions even then).