Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Honor Guard Badge

[WarRelics]

I picked up this badge that is awarded to Sentinels of the Tomb of the Unknowns. After receiving it I’m of the opinion that it’s a repro but other opinions have varied about it. I thought I would cross post from the FB page since this site creates a more lasting record for the benefit of members of the forum. It only has 2 clutch back pins on its back instead of 3 that I have seen on others. Additionally it’s unhallmarked. It has crossed my mind that it might be a repro made for sale at a museum but I could be completely wrong about what I think it is. The badge is fairly rare and only 722 have been awarded since 1958. It is hard to earn and can be revoked for misconduct. A comment suggested that each badge awarded is numbered. This wasn’t confirmed with a citation of source. If anyone has a source confirming this please post it. Any and all input is appreciated. Thanks in advance. Regards. 

[RDUNE]

This one is the same exact type currently offered by Eagle Emblems Inc. for around $11.00 with a wholesale account. "Real" ones have 3 pins and are made of sterling silver. I've got 9 or 10 variations of this badge, 5 of which are sterling. I've never seen a numbered one offered for sale. My understanding, based on some conversations with some who has first hand knowledge, is that you earned your numbered one but usually wore an unnumbered sterling one on duty. I focus on Arlington related pieces and have been on the hunt for a numbered badge for years but have never even had a chance to look at one, let alone buy one. Below are photos of some of the variations I've come across so far. 

-Ryan

[WarRelics]

Very nice collection of an obscure and rare badge very few know much about. Thanks for sharing your collection and experience with these badges. My interest in them came about because my late father in law served in the “Old Guard” sometime post Korea. He never volunteered for duty as a Sentinel that I’m aware of but did tell stories of parading in colonial uniforms. Researching the 3rd infantry Regiment and the Old Guard I also became aware that the Sentinels were volunteers from the regiment which sparked an interest in them. Thanks again. Regards.

Bruce

[atb]

Non-sterling versions of the Tomb Guard Badge were available for purchase in Army Clothing Sales Stores. I got this Ira Green example at the Ft. Myer, VA Clothing Sales Store in 2002. It is not marked on the reverse.

 

[WarRelics]

The Ira Green and Vanguard versions seem pretty readily available online. 

[Bluehawk]

> A good book on the topic of Honor Guard lineage and traditions: