WWII USAAF 873rd Bomb Squadron – 498th Bombardment Group – Twentieth Air Force
Offered is a large embroidered patch depicting the distinctive winged elephant emblem of the 873rd Bombardment Squadron (Very Heavy), 498th Bombardment Group (Very Heavy), Twentieth Air Force, United States Army Air Forces.
The design features the squadron’s winged elephant reclining on clouds above falling ordnance.
HISTORICAL IDENTIFICATION
Historical reference material identifies the 873rd Bomb Squadron emblem as approved September 11, 1944, with the insignia described as embroidered on twill.
The 873rd Bomb Squadron served as part of the 498th Bombardment Group (Very Heavy), a B-29 Superfortress organization operating with the Twentieth Air Force from the Mariana Islands during World War II.
The group operated from Isley Field, Saipan, and participated in combat operations against Japan and throughout the Western Pacific.
SIZE
Approximately:
6-1/2 inches at widest point 4-3/4 inches in height
Please see the measurement photographs.
CONSTRUCTION
Large embroidered insignia on a red fabric ground.
The reverse remains completely exposed and provides an excellent view of the embroidery/thread construction. There is no modern hook-and-loop backing.
Please examine the detailed front and reverse photographs carefully when evaluating construction and age.
CONDITION
Vintage condition with age-related wear, toning/discoloration, minor edge wear and scattered loose/frayed threads.
The reverse exhibits substantial toning and exposed embroidery/thread construction, while the front retains strong colors and exceptionally detailed embroidery.
The patch has not been cleaned, repaired or restored while in my possession.
All photographs are part of the description.
ASMIC COLLECTOR CORRESPONDENCE
This particular patch was previously submitted for collector input through the American Society of Military Insignia Collectors (ASMIC).
Correspondence received from individuals identified in that exchange as ASMIC leadership discussed the patch’s construction and specifically commented on its unusually detailed embroidery while also expressing uncertainty regarding the individual piece.
A copy of this correspondence is included in the listing photographs.
Names and identifying information in the correspondence have been screened/redacted for privacy.
The correspondence is provided strictly as additional collector research and opinion. It does not constitute a formal authentication, appraisal, or certificate of authenticity.
REFERENCE & COMPARISON MATERIAL
Potential buyers are encouraged to conduct their own research. The following sources contain documented or collector-reference examples of the 873rd Bomb Squadron / 498th Bombardment Group insignia.
U.S. Militaria Forum — 873rd, 874th & 875th Bombardment Squadrons / 498th Bombardment Group / Twentieth Air Force
View the U.S. Militaria Forum reference thread
The forum reference shown in the listing research identifies the 873rd Bomb Squadron emblem as approved September 11, 1944 and describes its construction as embroidered on twill. The illustrated example provides an excellent visual comparison with the design offered here.
Flying Tiger Antiques — 873rd BS / 498th BG patch with associated photograph and paperwork
View the Flying Tiger Antiques reference example
Flying Tiger Antiques — 873rd Bomb Squadron / 498th Bomb Group / 20th Air Force patch
View the second Flying Tiger Antiques example
These references are provided strictly for historical research, identification and visual comparison. The referenced pieces are separate artifacts. Their identification or authentication should not be interpreted as authentication of the individual patch offered in this listing.
AUTHENTICITY DISCLOSURE
The insignia design itself is well documented as that of the 873rd Bomb Squadron.
However, because the exact manufacturing date and provenance of this individual example have not been independently established, I am not representing or guaranteeing this particular patch as an original WWII-manufactured example.
Extensive high-resolution photographs of the front, reverse, embroidery, edges and measurements have been provided so collectors can evaluate the piece and its construction for themselves.
Please review all photographs and reference material and make your own determination prior to purchase.
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Item specifics
Conflict: WWII (1939–45) Country: United States Organization: USAAF / U.S. Army Air Forces Unit: 873rd Bombardment Squadron (Very Heavy) Group: 498th Bombardment Group (Very Heavy) Air Force: Twentieth Air Force Aircraft Association: B-29 Superfortress Type: Squadron / Jacket Patch Material: Embroidered textile/twill Original/Reproduction: Unknown — See Description