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Unusual marked USN pilot wing - Fantasy hallmark


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wartimecollectables.com

Pre war fine detail delicate style wing without berries on the shoulders, 90 degree stop pin, locking catch.
Note the odd markings on the reverse. Does that make sense to anyone?

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There is a wing with identical markings in Willis and Carmichael's "Wings of Gold" book but they don't show a maker.

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wartimecollectables.com

There is a wing with identical markings in Willis and Carmichael's "Wings of Gold" book but they don't show a maker.

Thanks! I'm in the process of moving and can't find my copy! Can you post or email me a pic of the page?

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Andrew, I believe the Naval Aviator badge you've posted is a "cast" wing with a "fantasy" hallmark and was sold by Jon Aldrich from Groveland, California, in the early 1980's.

 

Before his untimely death in an automobile accident, Jon Aldrich would set-up at the "Great Western Gun Show" near Los Angeles and sell a wide variety of old authentic aviation insignia, goggles, flying caps and instrumentation, as well as a few junk badges with that specific homemade-style hallmark.

 

In the 1980's, a small group of fellow collector's and I would make a point of visiting Aldrich's table first, just to see what new badges to avoid as they filtered thru the show.

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wartimecollectables.com

Andrew, I believe the Naval Aviator badge you've posted is a "cast" wing with a "fantasy" hallmark and was sold by Jon Aldrich from Groveland, California, in the early 1980Pos

 

Possibly... while it doesn't have the look of a cast wing and the fittings are very well done, I am having difficulty imagining anyone, jeweler or manufacturer creating such an odd hallmark.

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There's no doubt Jon Aldrich had some jeweler's skills... But a quick loupe inspection should tell all on this one.

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I also heard the same story that Russ just related. I had an opportunity to check out this specific badge or it's twin brother a number of years ago. I feel like This was a badge made to fool collectors, myself. I think Riss is exactly correct in his assessment

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