Miniature 203rd Coastal Artillery DUI

[Flashlarue]

Today I found this miniature 7/8 inch 203rd Costal Artillary / Combat Engineers DUI. I have never heard of these small size DUI's before but assume they were worn as the hat insignia. Both the DUI and the nut are marked Durocharm N.Y.C.

 

[Flashlarue]

And the back...

 

[Flashlarue]

Size compared to standard DUI.

 

[patches]

When did this particular DI first come out? TIOH of course will not have this old one listed. I say this as maybe this small size is a early one, one made to fit on the choaker collar coats that were worn before the open collar M1926 coats.

[Steve B.]

Capistrano lists this as 203rd Coast Artillery (Anti-Aircraft) during WWII. Also identifies it as originally being from the Missouri National Guard first authorized in 1921.

 

I believe what you have is lapel button or sweetheart item. I don't believe the miniature was used on a uniform.

[Flashlarue]

From my knowledge the DUI's with the knee on the hind legs above the scroll, the more rounded ear and open eye date from pre-WW2. The screwback DUI's are closer to WW1.

 

Is this correct?

[patches]

Capistrano lists this as 203rd Coast Artillery (Anti-Aircraft) during WWII. Also identifies it as originally being from the Missouri National Guard first authorized in 1921.

 

I believe what you have is lapel button or sweetheart item. I don't believe the miniature was used on a uniform.

I think the DUROCHARM NYC hallmark will be a clue for your idea Steve? Charm, as in you know Charms, or Charm Bracelets.

 

See post #7 by Allan H

http://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/160661-durocharm-jump-wing/

[Flashlarue]

I have seen a couple of full sized DUI made by Duracharm also.

[12A54]

A small screwback with stabilizing pin indicates a men's lapel pin rather than sweetheart jewelry IMO.

[1SG_1st_Cav]

Very nice variations.