Bronze Insignia

[REG]

There's always a box or two of unissued insignia at militaria fairs in this country.

I thought I'd take a delve and grab any that appeared to be in half decent condition at the Malvern, Three Counties showground a month or so ago.

I picked up the following for a few pennies.

I cannot find any reference to Bronze coloured Colonel's insignia - what is this, then, please?

[Tim Kline]

The Eagles should be silver colored, Major leaves should be gold. and Lt Col leaves should be silver.

[Steve B.]

Sometimes sterling silvber or silver-plate will take on a bronze hue when it is tarnished. If a little bit of polish won't clean it up, my next guess would be that it is supposed to be that color and is probably for a police department.

[Lee Bishop]

It’s one of two things.
Either the COL ranks are brass and had the silver finish worn off (which isn’t likely as there would still be some silver color down in the cracks)
Or, some American Police departments use rank insignia that is gold in color, and sometimes made to military designs.

[REG]

Guys

Excellent responses as usual from here and elsewhere, all pointing to the fact that these are probably from a police force.

So they are 'original' insigniae but not authentic army/forces pieces.

A lick of silver paint and they're good value.

They were fresh off there mounting cards, unissiued, so never cleaned. The backs are brass.

Thanks, as always.