US Army Air Corps Aerial Gunner wings?

[AZPhil]

Hello Everyone

I want to add one of these badges to my collection.
In my search ( ebay)for this badge, I have found that there is a 3" and a 2 1/2" versions and I also have found that there is a One piece and a two piece models.


I would like to get an original.If possible, could somebody give me a quick lesson on these badges or point me in the right direction, It would be Greatly Appreciated
Thanks
Semper Fi
Phil

[AZPhil]

Anybody got Anything?

[Walkwolf]

Yes...........


The wings must be exactly 3" or three and one eighth in length. Any smaller and
they are probably cast repros. There are however, tons of repros out there.

3" wings are for the dress uniform, 2.5 inch are 'unofficial' or repro, 2" wings are
the type that may have been used in combat but were also called 'sweetheart'
wings, and more often sent home to Mom or a girlfriend. There are pinback
and clutchback types that were used during WWII.

Look for 'Sterling' marked wings with a maker's name, as these are better
quality wings. If there are any numbers on the back, they are not WWII.
There are many different makers and patterns. If you find one with a
manufacturers name, be prepared to pay quite a lot.

I'd look for the makers: Amico, Amcraft or LGB, but it may take you a while
to find a good one with a maker.

I only have two - Unmarked and Gemsco clutch-back...........

[AZPhil]

That is what I was looking for!
Thank You very Much!
Semper Fi
Phil

[Walkwolf]

Feel free to post a photo of any prospective wings you find and
I can tell you if they are good period pieces or not.............

[AZPhil]

So is this one a real one? I didn't bid because I wasn't sure yet!
It said it was 3" and had the sterling mark.
WWII US ARMY AIR CORPS AERIAL GUNNER WINGS - STERLING - eBay (item 380313600470 end time Feb-12-11 18:50:01 PST)