Larry Lipps

A little more detail of the catch and hinge.

And the reverse,

One more AWS in bronze.

And the reverse,

And another GWL PO, the obverse.

And the reverse,

GWL's are one of my favorites because of the durability of the finish. GWL Observer obverse,

And the reverse,

It's hard to tire of nice badges. It seems I never see to many. BSW Glider Pilot Obverse,

Lastly, the DRGM mark that often shows through the center of the top cloverleaf, and doesn't on the Type II. While there are other suttle diferences, this is the main aspects of being able to identify Type I and Type II 1936 Dagger chains. I've seen some interesting evidence lately that there may be an ever rarer Type III, but I think the jury is still out at the moment.

The approval stamps are slightly different as well. The Type I has squared holes in the links while the Type II has rounded holes.

Next is the actual skulls themselves. The Type I has better detail to the skull and the Type II better detail to the crossbones. Also take note of the difference in background pebbling.

If it's of interest I'll post a few photos from an article I recently wrote on Type I and Type II SS dagger chains. Yes, these are as pricey as they ever were. First is the difference between the links attaching the chain to the cloverleaf. The Type I is on the left. Keep in mind that the Type II is a solid nickle chain and the Type I is plated. While not easily seen in this photo, notice that the runes on the Type I are larger than the runes on the Type II links.

And the reverse,

You guys have given me cause for hope. I had not seen the tabs with the hard backing before. Several years ago I picked these up from a vet who had served in North Africa and Italy, but had never set foot in Germany. Although they've gone a couple of rounds with moths, they look very similar to some of those presented. So what do you think?

Gentlemen, while my knowledge level on DK's is too small to make a contribution, I can make an observation from this year's MAX show. As I walked around I started counting the stone mint DK's versus the "been there" looking ones. The score was 41 to 13. This did not include any of the large amount of obvious fakes, but really nice looking crosses being sold as original. This just seems like a skewed number to me. Whether the wreaths are dotted or not, I have concerns really good fakes may already be among us.

Elder brother or evil twin, they're certainly related.

Wish I could join in the discussion, but mine's had a harder life yet.

And the reverse.

How about a JFS 25?

I'd have to lean toward Juncker as well.

It was very nice but not worth the 2K asking price.

Well, I only found one badge at the entire MAX I thought was real. It was a Juncker and was priced beyond belief. Needless to say, the quest continues.

Thanks Gary, that's some welcome information!

Guys, I appreciate the help. I'm going to print this thread an use it as my walking reference at the show. Maybe I'll have something to add in a couple of weeks.