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 Replies: 5 / Views: 1,272 |
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Valued Member
United States
379 Posts |
Like many retired folks, I sometimes look for something to do that might provide both a service and a small profit. I am a veteran of several branches, from E-1 to 0-3.
You know that there are always a metallic rank insignia on the uniforms, both yellow and silver colored. While well made, they are inexpensive in value and type of metal used and I have no problem with that, I wore them with pride.
But I was thinking of having rank insignia made of solid silver or platinum or rhodium for ensigns, 1st lieutenants, lt. colonels, etc., and of solid gold for ensigns, 2nd lieutenants, majors, etc. For those on a budget, a precious metals plated or filled version could be made.
It would be CAD assisted in design size to match the regular insignias perfectly in both size and appearance.
Just that special gift to give to that military member from proud parents, spouses, etc. What do you think? What would you estimate be of start-up costs? I am not thinking like it would be a big business, just one retired poop like me making them in his shop as a pastime and bring in a few extra dollars a month.
Or is that some kind of jingo idea? Your thoughts?
mike
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Pillar of the Community
United States
743 Posts |
I understand where you are coming from, most of them out there are plated and wear off. Could work, but the gold ones would have to be 10K just to make them hard and affordable enough... (Most ensigns would have a hard time paying $1,500 for a set of pure gold bars).
You also have tens of thousands of police officers, Sgt & above that wear military ranks... Large market.
Good luck...
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Pillar of the Community
United States
509 Posts |
Non gov't. issued insignia? That may be a problem. May be passable in silver but gold and even jewelers brass are a noticeable difference. Go back to your days as an NCO or your days as a CPT. or a LT. During inspections would you have let it slide if you noticed it? I was E-7 (SFC Army) when I got out in the early 80's but I believe I would have noticed the difference. Maybe you could do it as plaque or commemorative of some type. Just something to consider IMHO.  |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
2023 Posts |
Thinking of these as commemorative pieces and not replacements for official use, it sounds like a reasonable idea. But if they are the same design with precious metals, I'm not sure anyone besides the owner would appreciate their value above what they represent. The difference may be obvious to some and I'd hope that it's obvious enough when it comes time to sell them -- when inherited, the new owner may not know what it is and simply discard it. Unusual designs might also introduce overhead costs that few can afford, on top of the metal. You might have better luck there by approaching a private mint with your design ideas on a simple round piece which can include lettering and composition. My 3¢. |
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Valued Member
Canada
291 Posts |
I agree. Probably not practical for uniform use.
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Pillar of the Community
 United States
6514 Posts |
I am retired enlisted USMCR. I think the concern with the color not matching existing ensignias is warranted. I bet you could get close color matches with gold, silver and platinum alloys. Personally I think it's a great idea. I would have worn my dress uniforms with just that much more pride. Good luck with your idea.
Edited by chafemasterj
07/17/2018 1:11 pm
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Replies: 5 / Views: 1,272 |
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Posted 07/17/2018 12:31 pm
