24 May 2023 | 10:00 | Lots: 652
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Lot 594
Full Lot Description
A WWII 'Irvin Parachute Co' gold 'Caterpillar Club Badge', the small, gold badge modelled as a caterpillar, the eyes set with red garnets, together with a similar, base metal example with red enamelled eyes, the reverse of each inscribed 'P/O. C E Stead', each with original pin fittings. Length of each 20mm. (2)
The gold Caterpillar Club badge was initiated in the 1920's by Leslie Irvin of Irvin Parachute Company, the gold badge of membership a gift to all whose life had been saved by the use of one of their manufactured parachutes.
(159897) C.E Stead R.A.F is believed to have gained the ranks of Sergeant (July 1943), Flight Officer (January 1944) and Flight Lieutenant (July 1945).
After jumping from a Lancaster JB112 on a mission to bomb Dusseldorf, Stead is recorded as been held as a captive prisoner of war, until his liberation on 23rd April 1945.
Read more about C.E. Stead on our blog.
Postage: Postable
Weight: 1.7
Total lot weight: 1.7
Condition Report
Items are in fair condition, showing general surface scratches, marks, wear and tarnishing in keeping with age and use.
Name engravings to both are clear and legible.
Movement to pin clasp to gold example is in working condition.
Pin also clasps securely to base metal example.
Combined weight is 1.7 grams. Weight of gold example is 0.9 grams.
Gold example tests as 9ct gold. Fellows uses a Thermo Scientific Nitron Handheld XRF Analyser to test metals. This technology is limited to examining metal to a depth of approximately 8 microns.
Fellows does not guarantee the standard of silver, gold or platinum unless an item is hallmarked. Results from electronically tested items should only be used as a guide and with caution, as false readings are possible.
Condition reports are offered as a guide only and we highly recommend inspecting any lot to satisfy yourself as to its condition.
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