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What's the difference in GLOW and No GLOW patches


Steven Chapp
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I have been looking at descriptions of vintage WWII military patches and see that some listers note that their  example is glow or no glow also Snow, whit I gather is the amount of white thread on the reverse. 

Any help welcomed.

Thanks!

Steven

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Hello Steven and welcome to the USMF!

 

Most WW II patches were made of rayon or cotton. Contrary to sythetics these materials do not "react" (glow) under blacklight. Depicted a modern U.S. flag made of synthetics on top compared to a patch made of rayon/cotton below. But be carefull, detergent e.g. can make patches "glow" as well. And yes "snow" is referring to the white thread on the back.

 

 

 

 

BL1.jpg

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So using the blacklight is only ONE possibility to differentiate an original WW II patch from a reproduction. Here´s another example of a WW II and a postwar made patch under blacklight.

 

 

 

Bullion a1 (16).JPG

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As Proud Kraut stated, the use of a blacklight is only one aspect of dating patches.  In addition to the info and great pics above, some other useful guidelines;


For WWII

Most WWII patches were cotton or wool, but not all 

Most have a khaki twill base 
Most have a "snowy" back (natural rayon white or ivory return threads), not all

Threads burn and do not melt, I personally use this as a last resort (if ever)
They should always have a supple back (absolutely no plastic)

 

Post War

Olive Drab bordered patches can date from WWII to 1956
Most of the time, late 1950's-1960's cut-edged patches use color matched twill base

In 1957, the new Army Green service coat was created; Army Green Cut-Edged patches were made from 1957 to about 1967
1960's/ 1970's merrowed patches have a flatter merrowing with the ribbing on the edge of the patch

 

Again, these are only basic guidelines.  There are many experts on USMF who are happy to answer questions, you've come to the right place!

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