Old West & Native American Auction
Lot 1478:
Description
A classic piece of American law enforcement history, this vintage police badge features the iconic six-point star design, a shape famously associated with Western sheriffs and many municipal forces throughout the 20th century. The badge appears to be made of nickel-plated brass or similar base metal and features the word “POLICE” prominently in raised, recessed lettering with a dark background to enhance readability. The reverse side shows a simple, hinged pin and catch mechanism, indicative of a mid-century or earlier design, and heavy patina and wear on the plating. It possesses the substantial weight and simple tooling typical of badges made by major historical manufacturers like Donley or Smith & Warren, though no specific maker’s mark is clearly legible in the photos. The condition is fair/good vintage: the front has a dark, heavily tarnished patina with minor surface scratches and evidence of the original plating largely worn away, giving it a dull, dark gray-brown finish. The rear shows heavy tarnish, pitting, and corrosion commensurate with significant age and use. The pin mechanism appears intact and functional. H 3.25″, W 2.75. From the Western display in Donley’s Wild West Town.
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