Fake Heer Para Badge

[Paceguy]

Good morning, I'm new to the forum and posted this entry in the wrong location. Sorry about that. I am in the process of possible buying a Heer para badge. There was a very good posting on this subject but would like additional "eyes on" and thoughts as to the authenticity of this badge. Thanks in advance. Chuck

Edited April 24, 2014 by Paceguy

[J Temple-West]

These engraved army Para badges were made in silver, marked 800 and sell for extraordinary amounts of money. Copies started turning up in the 90's, so unless you have a iron clad provenance, or at least a right of return until it can be assessed by an expert in this field (preferably before purchase) make no commitment.

[Paceguy]

Thank you John. Unfortunately there is no return policy with this piece. The seller is asking a buyer's price which makes it intriguing. I appreciate your response. The more I "sleep" on this deal the less I am inclined to purchase the badge. Chuck.

[Jock Auld]

Chuck,

If you don't buy it you still have your money in your pocket.

I have seen what they are supposed to go for in Neimans but who says they are real at all, is there rock solid evidence that they are TR produced?

I don't know so I am asking as I am sure you have done a bit of research if you are considering the plunge.

When were they first sold as the real deal and who endorsed them based on what?

I have only seen an original aluminum version so I can't comment properly as I guess most can't.

Anyone who owns one will of course defend it to the death I am sure.

I have noted the pin is thicker than any in the neimans book but what is to say any of them are correct in the first place?

Good Luck.

Jock

[Paceguy]

Hi Jock, thanks for the reply. You are correct as to my having my money in my pocket. I have done quite a bit of research on this item and the deeper I go the more confusion I seem to find. You hit the nail on the head about the pin. That is the first item I put in my negative column. The 800 silver is another negative as the reproductions seem to have the same number font in the same location. Is it a war time replacement? I don't know. Passing up on a item such as this is always tough but better safe than sorry. Best regards, Chuck.