Yet Another Naval Aviator Wing - Link pattern

[Dave G]

There's been an epidemic of questions regarding naval aviator wings of late. Let me continue to spread the disease. Could these wings date from WWI to the 1930s? The only marking is sterling, does anyone recognize a particular maker in the design?

 

Thanks,

 

Dave

 

 

[B-17Guy]

This pattern was originally struck by Wm Link Co in 1918.

I am not sure how long it was produced, but I believe at least till the early 30's when the company was sold.

This wing has been re-struck/re-produced and better photos, especially of the pin would be needed to give a better evaluation of this wing.

 

John

[B-17Guy]

By the way, this wing has been seen with the Link halllmark, Sterling and no hallmark.

[mghcal]

John has it all covered. But I'd like to second that you should be cautious with this wing. There are some red flags that make me think it's possibly a reproduction. Before you spend a lot of money be sure to post better photos as John suggested.

[Dave G]

Thanks for all the comments. My photography skills are horrible but here are some additional pictures.

[Dave G]

And another of the catch.

[Dave G]

Last.

[cwnorma]

As others have noted, problematic to this pattern is the existence of the original die--in the hands of someone who is willing to use the die to make re-strikes.

 

Some of the re-strikes of this pattern were/are marked BB&B (wrong for this pattern); not all are so marked.

 

Link tended to use 90 degree pins and Blancard (so-called "Tiffany") catches on their WW1 era sterling wings. These appear to have a 180 degree pin and a simple catch--making them somewhat atypical for Link.

 

Chris

 

 

 

 

 

[pfrost]

It is hard to put my finger on it (maybe it is the patina) but these wings give me some heart burn. I would tread carefully, especially if the price is crazy.