Vintage Gold-Plated Winchester, VA Fire Police Badge
Badge / Professional Insignia · Yellow Gold tone (likely a plating over brass, nickel, or bronze)
Purity: Estimated Gold-Plated (GF/RGP) or Gold-Toned Alloy with 14K Gold Filled possibilities. Likely contains less than 1% actual gold by weight.
Type
Badge / Professional Insignia
Purity
Estimated Gold-Plated (GF/RGP) or Gold-Toned Alloy with 14K Gold Filled possibilities. Likely contains less than 1% actual gold by weight.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold tone (likely a plating over brass, nickel, or bronze)
Weight
35 to 45 grams (based on standard duty badge thickness)
Description
A professional shield-style badge designated for 'FIRE POLICE' in Winchester, VA. The design features a spread-wing eagle atop a shield, surrounding a central multicolored Virginia State Seal. The gold-toned finish indicates a supervisory or specific unit rank.
Key Features
Split-panel text design, deeply embossed State of Virginia seal, and iconic spread-wing eagle topper.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow gold tone with significant oxidized patina. Features a textured 'pebble' background and high-polish raised lettering and eagle.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in current orientation; stamps (maker marks such as Blackinton or Entenmann-Rovin) would typically be on the reverse pin assembly.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 3 inches (76mm) in height by 2.2 inches (56mm) in width.
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones; features a central State of Virginia seal inlay with multi-colored enamel representing the state motto and figure.
Clasp & Closure
Likely a vertical safety pin or 'C-clasp' with a locking swivel on the reverse side.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid metal plate construction with a standard badge shield profile.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck construction with multi-part assembly; the central seal appears to be a separate disc applied to the main shield body.
Authentication Indicators
Text alignment and specific design for Winchester VA; however, lack of visible gold purity stamps (like 14K) strongly suggests a gold-plated base metal item.
Origin & Maker
United States; Winchester, Virginia. Possible makers include V.H. Blackinton or Smith & Warren.
Era & Period
Mid-to-Late 20th Century (likely 1960s-1980s based on the stylized eagle and State Seal design).
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990; consistent with municipal auxiliary equipment of that era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the history of municipal volunteer services and civil protection in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Showing surface scratches, mild verdigris (green oxidation) in recesses, and significant wear to the gold plating revealing base metal.
Value Estimate
$50 - $150 (primarily as a local history collectible). Gold content/melt value is negligible (likely $2-$5 in recovered gold).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals which may strip the remaining gold plating or damage the enamel seal.
Similar Items
Nickel-plated patrolman badges, 10K solid gold retirement presentation badges, and modern Smith & Warren custom shields.
Interesting Facts
'Fire Police' are volunteer or appointed officials who provide traffic control and scene security for fire departments; gold badges are typically reserved for officers or specific jurisdictions.