WWII US Army Proficiency Badges - Theater Made -
The proficiency badges were a way in which the armed forces could recognize an individuals skill level with a particular weapon
or device. The award consisted of a cross located in the middle of a wreath. The bottom of the cross has two loops from which a
rectangle could be secured. The metal rectangle contains the name of the weapon that has been mastered. In this example the weapon
is a rifle. In other cases granades, machine guns, etc, are added to the award. All branches of the service used the same type of
system.
This page is a recognition and identification guide for WWII US medals and awards. Multiple
detailed photos of a specific sample are provided. Descriptions point out clearly defined
points that should be noted.
One of the most commonly asked questions is "How much is my WWII medal or insignia worth?".
A price guide is included here to address this question. The value of the medals
is reviewed over a period of several years. A trend can be observed. The present worth
of US militaria in the collector's market is illustrated.
This service is provided free of charge to the visitor/enthusiast courtesy of
MilitaryItems.com,
a company dedicated to the preservation of military history and to providing quality military
antiques and collectibles to museums, institutions and the general public.
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The proficiency badge featured on this page is an example of a theater made proficiency badge. Complete with three
competency bars; rifle, carbine and bayonet.
Pin back construction where the pin has been crudely soldered in place. No markings. The back of the main body has
a series of circles in multiple places. More than likely left there by the mold.
This US medal or insignia is currently being
reproduced.
It is becoming more difficult to be able to tell the fake ones from the real ones because
the quality of the reproductions is improving. The collector must become familiarized with
the construction style and materials employed in the manufacturing of this medal/insignia.
Attention to the details is critical in order to be able to determine the authenticity of
the collectible.
If you have an interest is seeing other WWII medals or insignia, you can do so by
going to our
WWII US medals and insignia
identification guide. Where we cover Army, Navy, Army Air Force and other organizations.
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