dumb question.................

[sigy]

I have a dumb question for you. How do you tell if the patches are fake or immitation? Are there signs to look out for? I'm new to collecting and don't want to get ripped off.



Sigy:destroy:

[IL Lawman]

There's a number of ways.
(1) try to get your patches only from the PD rather than through a 3rd party trader. This way you know it's legit.
(2) some patches have the little copyright symbol on them. It's a small case "c" inside a circle.
(3) check the PD's website. Many times the patch will be shown on it.
(4) if it's from a local PD, check to see what the officers have on their uniforms. Then compare.
(5) a subscription to PC News (from WI) might be in order. It supplies a wealth of info on ALL types of Police Collectibles, not just patches.
I've been collecting patches for 30 years & I still get stuck once in awhile. Know who you're dealing with, and you'll minimize your chances.
Good luck & have fun.

[Ranger337]

I am fairly new to the hobby of patch trading too, and have asked this question before. I have learned that generaly the people involved in L.E. patch trading are good honbest people (most are L.E. officals)

I have approx. 40 patches in my collection and I now know that at least 2 of them are fakes, but only after a little investigation and luck. There are "companies" in Asia (Tiwan) that make authentic <B>LOOKING</B> patches, that are as fake as a 3 dollar bill. Thankfully I didn't pay more then a few bucks for all of my patches (each) so no real big deal.

The best thing to do to insure authnticity is just what IL Lawman said. get it form the issuing dept.

Best wishes,