Thanks fellas! I appreciate the comments. Well Bob, I think I got lucky with the pics as well - normally mine pale in comparison when put up against some of the other members 'professional' shots! Hey John, yours is a real beauty! As you say, comparatively rare, that's why I picked her up. Not the greatest condition-wise, but she's bona fide and fills a hole. Slim pickens' here in the states. @ Rich - don't know what happened around the head area mate, it just simply looks like wear, but your theory seems plausible. The head area appears to be the most worn part of the badge, along with the wing ridge and the drumstick/talons. These are the highest points on the eagle. Here's another pic of the head area at a slightly different angle. The fletching is there, but worn. (soft appearance) Also, in this closeup, notice the telltale wreath fissures. ERIC