Combined Operations title

[elwe23]

Hi guys,

I would like to have your opinion on this combined ops tombstone patch. Is it an original WW2 one ? I'm not sure about the white threads.
I have seen some originals ones with black thread on the back.

Cheers.

[Luc]

It is modern. Note the lack of detail and long neck.

[elwe23]

I see. Thank you very much Luc.

[Mike B]

Originally Posted by Luc

It is modern. Note the lack of detail and long neck.

I agree with Luc - fairly distinct reverse too

[elwe23]

Hi guys following the conversations about material used on printed para titles I wanted to reopen the subject for the Combined Operations formation sign.

I found two distinctive material variants in printed Comb Ops both in tombstone version and round version.

The one from the left seems to be the more represented in collection from what I have seen. The one from the right seems to be rarer.
I wanted to be sure it is not a copy with a different material.
They both bleed from the back.

Tcrown was speaking about satin drill and coarse weave drill variants that might be the case here. I pointed out some of the differences area in yellow. Note also the eagle on the right seems to be sharper. Could this be due to the material ?

Would love to have your thoughts and feedback on it.

[Mike B]

Although it was indented Combined Operations badge issue would be standardised through issue from assigned Admiralty Victualling Yards (for all service) - and officially in only printed format - the scope for variation is massive. There were tens of thousands in the organisation, dispersal was global, time period was a number of years. Variation is to be expected. Although Australian manufacture was agreed (in theory at least), I think there were problems in India. Nevertheless, even if largely central issue took place from the UK it is highly unlikely common material was used for all badges, given wartime constraints. We then have to factor in various forms of unofficial embroidered Combined Operations badges, but that is a separate subject.

These are just my thoughts - that need to be tempered against control of standards through 'sealed patterns' - so further thoughts and comments are welcome.

Mike

[tcrown]

elwe23, I think your question was already addressed here https://www.britishbadgeforum.com/fo...0&postcount=32
The Calico printers used both coarse weave and satin cotton material with various results.