Dachau insignia question

[Mark Yerger]

I've noted a variety of SS insignia stated as Dachau produced (assume taken from bins) on Gailen David's and Bill Shea's sites. Can someone tell me about these compared to earlier examples ? Are they considered less desired due to being Dachau made ? If considred period made, they seem reasonably priced compared to most SS insignia.

Mark

[rayman]

Mark,
The Dachau produced items are probably a little cheaper compared to other SS insignia because of the amount of items found, and brought back to the US by Army personnel. Remembering that Dachua was a supply depot for cloth insignia, there were most likely large quantities made and "liberated" by GI's. These items are probably more plentiful on the open market than the well worn stuff. I've heard stories of US personnel reaching into large bins full of cloth items and taking a hanfull of stuff.

Cheers,

Rayman.

[Mohawkwarrior]

I personally do not care for these Dachau items.There were many reproductions produced with similar traits and only those with alot of experience with the real thing are good at knowing the differences.I prefer the early items and those items more commonly found on existing original uniforms.Many collectors like mint condition items,I am one that sees it this way,it wasnt used so it has no historical value other than it represents a unit.These are my personal views being an SS Tunic collector,but I do respect the views of others who enjoy collecting insignias and see nothing wrong with collecting these if you like them.Seems to be alot of these around and I am sure many are originals.I am aware of stories of large amounts being brought back by Veterans and being discovered by lucky collectors.But I am also aware of stories and Ive seen proof of some figures in the collecting world buying perfect repros in quantity from a repro dealer out here in California and who can say for what reason one can only speculate.They would probably say it was to use the repros for compairing to the real deal.Eager beavers will buy any story especially if its from a respectable collector.Now I am not saying that Gailen David or Bill Shea are selling repros I believe they are very respectable and reputible dealers in the hobby and deal only in quality originals.Collectors need to be aware that the age of the UV light is over many of the insignias made now do not react and thus properly artificially aged are bait for eager beavers with no knowledge and lots of money.