Rock Island Arsenal Employee Badge

[rcathey]

Has anyone ever seen anything like this? Think it's legit? What era?

I bought it at auction the other night (that's where the poor quality pic came from). I'm in it cheap enough that even as a fake curio I'd be happy so no harm either way.

[rcathey]

Thought I'd bump this one time for a few more views.

Any info would be appreciated. Thanks!

[42rocker]

Flipped this link to some friends and got this back for you.
""""Yes I have one and also gave one to Lucky#13 and it is legit and they are rare. They had a leather back to them and when I get time I will shoot you a picture of it, mine still have the iron gall ink written on the back of the leather to whom it belonged.""""
From the other friend
""""I may have something like that. Toolmann is always hunting for BA, RIA etc badges, including employee badges, awards, etc. He got me something RIA, would have to dig it out to remember just what version it is. I expect his is authentic. """"

Hope that this helps you somewhat. They are both on other forum's and I can contact them for more info if needed.

Later 42rocker

[rcathey]

Hey that’s awesome! I’ll get some more pictures posted of the back and better quality.
Thanks for reaching out for me!

[42rocker]

That's what forums are all about. Sharing.

Later 42rocker

[rcathey]

And here's some clearer pics. At first the cheap, stamped nature of the badge made me think it was a fake. Thinking about it now, I suppose that makes sense -- it's just an employee ID so it would be purposefully made cheap.

Any thoughts from your friends on what it may be worth? I just have it stuck to the front of my gun safe with a bit of tape right now...want to see if I should be more careful with it, haha.

[42rocker]

My friend sent me a pic of his and other than the number they look like the same badge. His is still on the leather circle that they came on.
Value, I emailed him and asked and if he gives me a number I'll try to get it posted.

Later 42rocker

[42rocker]

Here is the last email I received from toolmann
""Yes they are collectible but a small market he just has to find the right guy that wants one. They typically sell in the 50-100 range, obviously more with the leather backer. ""

Later 42rocker

[rcathey]

Not too shabby. I paid $30.
A place on the front of my gun safe sounds just about right for it.
Thanks for all the help!!