What have we here?

[nedwreck]

Well, ok, I know what it is but is it a real one or a repro? If anyone would know, it'd be you guys. I found it at a gunshow today for $25.

http://img444.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dscf13813au.jpg

Thanks,

Bob

[Letum]

As always these badges have been reproduced. One of the commonest has the makers name "Schwerin Berlin SW." These early fakes are made in brass but lack detail right to the extent of no propeller to the "U" boat. This error has now been corrected so you can now find Schwerin badges that are reproductions with and without propellers. One of the latest has the makers name of "Frank and Reif, Stuttgart." to the back. Fortunately this firm did not make the badge, so any with this mark are clear copies. The reproduction makers have also used most of the original makers marks with that of "Schwerin" being the most common. One reproduction badge has even been seen with the makers mark of "JMME" a renowned maker of Luftwaffee badges. So extreme care should be taken when buying this and indeed any badge.
It's very hard to tell useing only your image and images of other replicas and genuine articles.
I doubt that it is a origional badge, but I could be wrong as a few diffrent moulds where used in the war.

Real Deal (earlywar): *note* more detail on the flag here. Better post cast edges.
http://www.thirdreichmedals.com/pictures/e741.jpg

[nedwreck]

OK, thanks for the info. Mine's a fake. Mine has "Schwerin 68" stamped into the back. I had no idea what "68" referred to. It's good to know that. At least now I won't go claiming that it is real and I won't get all broken up if I lose it. I'll find a spot on my gaming hat for it. Prolly next to the brass Schmoo pin I've got.:arrgh!:

Bob

[Letum]

You might want to take a needle file to the edges if you are good with metal working. :hmm:

Nice find tho!