J Temple-West

Rare enough to find these banners in any condition... What a superb example, Bob. I'm green with envy.

Thank goodness for the tell-tale catch used by Souval on their post war pieces.

Indeed, a very early example of the "Wrangel" (Model Nr. 1693) Army saber, with "dove" pattern pommel, by Carl Eickhorn. It would seem that Eickhorn used two dies during the production run of this model. Early examples show the eagle on the langet with its head facing to its left...later examples have the eagle's head pointing to the right.

Blimey, they certainly are. Most likely from one of the many Pakistani embroidery companies that are hitting the Net with their wares. All made from natural materials which makes it even harder for those who rely on blue light testing.

If you were a supplier of awards to the 'Reich' during the time, this would have been the address to have. Kuinmer, Halle A/S, Adolf Hitler Ring 1

There is another name on the reverse of the wreath which (going on other badges with such information scratched on the backs, being a common practice) is usually the airfield where the qualification tests took place, but I've never been able to work out this particular one.... maybe someone with a sharper eye will have better luck.

The reverse of the wreath shows the recipient's name and date of qualification.

catch..with typical 'hook'.

Hinge

Reverse

A close up look at the very rarely found 1st pattern Pilot/Observer badge by W. Deumer, Ludenscheid. This example was awarded to H. Harmsen who received it on the 1/10/1937. Obverse

If you're going to have a couple of Luftwaffe badges in the collection, and they happen to be of the type shown, you couldn't have chosen much better examples...very nice. And, Robin.... I'll give you £6 for your one. 100% profit.

Good to hear that all went well with the refund, Matthew.

Morning Matthew It's trying to be a Pilot/Observer badge but everything screams, badly cast fake.

A nicely detailed photo of a badge that I've been hunting for many years.... 1st pattern eagle (tombak)/2nd pattern wreath (nickel silver). Sooo, if anyone knows of one for sale...I know, cheeky! Still, nice photo.

Hi Bernhard Thanks for that.... Having not come across this artist before, thought I would see what google would turn up... Interesting! So, his name was Walter Gotschke who was a well known graphic artist & cartoonist who was well known for his illustrations of cars... and in particular those participating in the Grand Prix. Anyway, link to wikipedia...well worth the read: http://translate.google.je/translate?hl=en&sl=de&u=http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_Gotschke&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dgotschke%26hl%3Den%26biw%3D1904%26bih%3D942&sa=X&ei=PydpUfGdOarK0QXM2IC4Bg&sqi=2&ved=0CDIQ7gEwAQ

As long as you are happy, Kev.. As I say, I'm not up to date with any new evidence that may have come to light proving the "dotted date" version of the Zimmermann DK's are of pre 45 manufacture, but If I were looking to purchase an example by this maker I would go for the more commonly accepted type. We never stop learning in this hobby, so if you have come across any new evidence, let me know...always good to have new information.

Ah, the "dotted date" Zimmermann... There has always been a lot of controversy, and sometimes heated debate, surrounding this particular award. I not sure of the latest thinking as to pre 45 or post 45 production but would suggest that you seek out an example without the dotted date just to be sure of acquiring an example that is accepted as a period-correct piece.

Bernhard The first one shows the distinctive artwork of the artist, Wolfgang Willrich...very nice. I can't make out the artist of the second..is the name mentioned on the reverse of the card?

Reverse..

Another P&L...

Back...

In black, brass/tombak based... front

The back of the display card shows the item number.

....but still intact on the reverse.