John F.

I have this British North Borneo Medal that is marked ?SPECIMEN" on the rim. I found reference material to that states specimens were made but they were marked "COPY" on the rim. Does anyone know what this is...was used a display piece in a museum, or was it a prototype? I also realized that I have the reverse side of the planchet (gong) showing as the obverse...my mistake. Thanks in advance for the help. Best, John [attachmentid=22164]

Hello and Happy New Years to all! This arrived in the mail a couple of days ago from my aunt in New Brunswick, Canada, but I cannot find any reference to the shoulder title "Airborne Canada". When she told me she had come across a Canadian airborne uniform I was thinking more along the lines of the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion with the Pegasus patch etc. All patches appear to have been hand sewn. The stamped label inside the BD reads: Battle Dress Blouse Serge, Size No. 2, Tip Top Tailors Ltd, and is dated 1942. Thanks, John [attachmentid=21178]

This is my small collection of Romanian awards

Gentlemen, Thank you for the detailed discussion on this piece it has been very informative.

Any opinions on this Order of the Patriotic War - 2nd cl? Check out that pin and catch set-up looks German. Maybe a repair job by German Jeweler for a Soviet soldier after the war?

Hello Gents, Thanks for the replies. Rick, I check my source on the number of times this order was awarded and it seems that I missed quoted it. It reads that the 3rd class has been awarded over 75,000 times...and based on your facts maybe number 110,017 is in the realm of possibilities of having been presented. I agree Gerd, that this is a very nice award, awkward looking but nice. I like the way the screwback is part of the award with the two rockets and I love that light blue enamel. Best, John

Does anyone else have one of these Soviet Order for Service to the Homeland 3rd class monstrosities? The order was established on 28 October 1974. At first glance it looks like a naval award but it was awarded to all branches of the Armed Forces for a plethora of reasons (combat, political training, education, maintaining combat readiness, mastering new combat equipment, etc). I was going to research this badge but learned that the 3rd class version was awarded approx. 75,000 times and mine is number 110,017, meaning mine was never issued. Despite its awkward looks the badge is still very distinguished and aestheticly pleasing. I have also notice that these awards have doubled in price since I bought mine three years ago. Anyone have any others they would like to share or maybe the packet or box it came in (oh God I've been hanging around Marcus Hatton too long)?