The last photo was taken in 1945 at Obersalzberg/Berchtesgaden     Photographer: William Vandivert Date: 1945 Location: Germany Credits: LIFE Magazine    

Love this post. Recent joined the forum and I am getting caught up to speed on all previous posts. I’m somewhat of a 405 FG / 509 FS historian— most recently I have been doing some research into the 509 FS activity on 25 March 1945, when their Squadron Leader, Maj. Robert M. Blackburn was shot down and killed.   1LT Leslie Thompson flew on the mission alongside a relative of mine for the 509 FS and 405 FG records indicate that he took credit for destroying 1/2 an airplane hanger while flying “The Virgin IV,” P47D-30-RA, 4433375, on the mission! He shared the claim with 1LT Milford D. Nelson who was also on the mission.   If anyone has additional photographs of the 509 FS or 405 FG that they would like to share, I would love to add them to my files! Don’t hesitate to reach out! Thanks for posting this grouping. Glad someone rescued and is keeping it well cared for.

I’m not suggesting selling it for melt I was merely showing the easiest way to determine how much 14K is worth.   Most gold buyers play a confusing game when you present them with scrap but if you know the weight and its value they can’t confuse you.    

Great pics, I love the 405 FG pilots. Thanks for sharing.

Not sure what it weighs but pretty sure it’s “badge value” exceeds melt value.  

Great post! New to the forum— the 405 FG stuff has a special place in my heart. I’m an avid collector of 405 Fighter Group items— with specific interest in and specifically the 509 Fighter Squadron. I’m currently working on a list of pilots and places with photo documentation. Always enjoy seeing the 405 FG stuff.   If anyone has additional photographs of the 405 FG that they would like to share, or is looking for additional information on the Group/Squadron/Pilots, don’t hesitate to reach out!

When you weigh it, keep in mind the base may contain some non-sterling “ballast” to provide stability.  

Would never sell for melt value.  Too much history involved.

The easiest way to determine how much your 14K gold is worth is to weigh it in grams and multiply that by $91 which is what a gram of 14K gold is worth at the moment.   I don’t know what this medal is worth above it’s gold value.

“A few thousand”.  What makes your wing so special is there is no question over authenticity and it is attributed.  Not to mention it’s a tough wing to find.