This rare badge was an entrance badge for those employed at the Army Test Center at Peenemünde, Germany during development of the V-2 rocket. More
Author Archives: Clement V. Kelly
A German tanker’s winter crash helmet for the Russian Front
Combining a German panzer crash helmet (Schutzmütze) with a regular issue Russian Front fur cap (Pelzmütze) resulted in the German tanker’s winter crash helmet. Today, examples are hard to find. More
Italian Medal for World War I
In extraordinarily difficult fighting in the most inhospitable area in Europe—the Alps—Italian troops persevered. A Royal Decree created a ribbon for service in this war. More
Vietnamese Star of the November Revolution
To recognize prominent participants in the November revolution in Vietnam, the junta generals commissioned the production of a special decoration. Since only one prototype was ever made, however, The Vietnamese Star of the November Revolution is the rarest decoration to emerge from the Vietnam war. More
1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Pocket Patches
Taking note of the French success with helicopter deployment, far-sighted U.S. Army visionaries realized the potential of the craft for aerial reconnaissance. Collectors now seek patches that honor the successful 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry.
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ITALIAN SERVICE UNIT INSIGNIA
The Italian Service Unit was one of the shortest-lived and unusual units organized by the U.S. government during World War II. More
The Gunther Prien plaquette
One of the most audacious and incredible submarine exploits of World War II took place a little more than a month into the war. On the night of Oct. 13 and 14, 1939, the German submarine U47 managed to enter the British Royal Navy’s fleet anchorage at Scapa Flow … More
A Momento of Hitler’s Visit to Rome
During his visit to Germany, Mussolini honored Hitler by declaring him “A Corporal of Honor of the Fascist Militia.” Italy produced a heavy, simple-in-design badge to commemorate the visit. More
The French WWII Medal
To honor those who had served in the French Armed Forces, the French Government of Charles de Gaulle instituted the Commemorative Medal of the War 1939-1945 (Medaille Commemorative de la Guerre 1939-1945) by a decree made on May 21, 1946. This and other foreign medals provide collectors with an affordable option for expanding their collections. More
Higgins PT Boat Badge
These PT boat badges, though unofficial, were prized by their owners and would make a rare and welcome addition to any collection of PT boat memorabilia. Unfortunately, like the men who wore them, they were “expendable” and are not easily found today. More