Definitely a relic and reminder of the Cold War.

I've had both types and parted with them about ten years ago. If I remember correctly, I got about $175-$200 for each. Finding that particular collector who needs or wants that style was the key. As has been said, scarcity does not always equal high value.

Thanks! I know the Sears is dated 1942, is there any way to tell if the Enger Kress is WWI or WWII? I've only read about brass vs steel hooks but I'm not sure otherwise.

I have both cotton and wool versions of the 1909 Spec dated double disc coats.  Not named one has discs the other doesn't.  What is the going rate for these?  I am thinking about parting with my my pre-WWI stuff.   Thanks Bob

Hi Phill,   Interesting that this is a known faker trait among British circles.  Over the years, I’ve gotten much better at id’ing fakes.  Usually if a patch looks ugly to me, then I assume it’s a fake.  One’s gut feeling is important.  The old saying that I wouldn’t want it in my collection is a way of trusting one’s gut even if you don’t know for sure it’s a fake.     Dan

Those jackets are absolutely fantastic! They're truly works of art! Thanks for sharing. - Henry

This is a very belated thank you for your opinion!! Thanks,  manayunkman. It came with an engraved good conduct medal, paperwork of the 347th fighter group.

Not everyone that sold insignia manufactured them. Often the larger companies that manufactured insignia wholesaled unmarked items to smaller companies to sell under their name. I believe this was originally blackened for wear on the gray overseas hat (or what ever the navy called them) it is just badly worn.

If you google it there are still companies that pump out these patches. I think they are neat but distinctively Pakistani-looking. Not an issue until people claim WWII period English patches, IMO. Doyler, that one looks pretty high quality. Dave    

Link to the same book if that fails to open   https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=77e57cfd6175595d6c32b5d4b4819f30c0851b6c31e8512e236a999408829decJmltdHM9MTc4MDE4NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=090314c8-1a7e-6b3a-0591-02761bec6a11&psq=WAR+OF+THE+REBELLION%2c+1861+ΤΟ+1867.+REVISED+AND+COMPILED+BY+BRIG-GEN.+RICHARD+H.+ORTON%2c+ADJUTANT-GENERAL+OF+CALIFORNIA.+(Late+Captain+CompanyM%2c+First+California+Cava&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9hcmNoaXZlLm9yZy9kZXRhaWxzL3JlY29yZHNvZmNhbGlmb3IwMDAwYnJpZw