The Afrikakorps cuff title

[Adrian Stevenson]

Hi Guys, this is an item of insignia which has been very well reproduced for many years and catches a lot of collectors out.

However, it is one which need not fool you, if you study this original example from my collection.

Here we see the full length original cuff title.

[Adrian Stevenson]

Now note the shape to the letters, O, P, & R.

Look how the middle of the letter "O" is not circular, but is oval in shape?

Now study the "R" and "P". See how the middle of each letter (the green part) is a different size? Most originals, but not all, will feature this size difference.

Compare it to the repro shown below.

[Adrian Stevenson]

Now look at the letters "A" and "F".

These should not be touching or merging together. On the fake, the bottom corner of the letter "A" is missing as it merges into the letter "F". Once again look at the pics to see what I mean.

Also note the shape of the "A". (The green triangular part)

See the repro below

[Adrian Stevenson]

Another pic showing three originals, again with the detail to the "R" & "P". There can be slight variations due to the way the item is woven.

Now study the two photos of the reverse. Note the pattern of the weave. The fake has an almost "tartan" appearance

It is the reverse which is the big giveaway on these items

On the reverse pic also look at the shape of the letter "O". On fakes this will appear almost as a diamond shape.

Cheers, Ade.

[ironcross1]

Thanks Ade , iv got one of these, and for years have wondered whether it was the real mcoy , and going by your pics and compareing to mine i think the mystery is solved, im smileing , cheers mate thanks for the posting .Raymond

[Dimas]

Useful information Ade. Thanks!

[Adrian Stevenson]

Glad to help!

Cheers, Ade.

[Ben Evans]

Another great thread Ade, excellent teaching tool

[Davidh]

this info is priceless and has helped me in the past, cheers dave

[grassy49]

thanks for the info