|
My story on this subject. . .
I agree with the message that family members just don't know what to do with badges. A few years ago, I found a badge engraved with my chapter's initials (meaning they were initiated into my chapter), at a flea market. It was in a tray with a lot of other military insignia. Although I knew what it was, I kept my cool and didn't say anything. I purchased it for $5.00 from the sellers, who really had no idea what it was. They bought it at either an estate sale or an auction in a "lot" (meaning paying one price for a grab bag of items), and then just put it out on their table to sell.
I still have it in a display box in my home. At least I rescued one badge.
However, I have communicated with some of the collectors on eBay. The one's I've talked to are in it for the beauty of the pins (they only go for the jewelled badges) or the profitability of reselling. Non of them are in it to "pose" as a member. The funny thing is, no one I spoke to were trying to be offensive to me. Of course, I didn't really try to argue their points either. I just tried to find out their position on things.
Anyway, that's been my experience.
|