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Obverse Design
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Badge is very similar to the BG-125 type. Badge is in the shape of a shield.
Perched on top of the badge is an eagle
with spread wings. The eagle's head is ducked down and looking up to its right
(our left). The center has a seal on a stylized shield. The seal has another
shield on it, two crossed rifles and a sword and some other details (all very
small). To our left of the seal is a "FF" and to our right is an "DD". These
initials are for "Fuerza Defensa" or "Defence Force". There is a curved smooth
banner above the seal says "POLICIA" which means "POLICE". Below the seal is
a large smooth square with the badge number of "002". The entire badge except
for the eagle has a raised rope edge. The badge has a textured background.
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Reverse Design
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Probably a pin back. To be determined.
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Metal
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Unknown. Gold or brass in color.
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Size and Shape
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About 45 mm wide by 65 mm high (1 3/4 inches by 2 1/2 inches).
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Dates Issued
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This pattern was developed before 1987. The "Fuerza Defensa" existed from 1984
until December, 1989.
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Issurer
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Defence Force of Panama (PDF). This was the name of the military/police force of
Panama from 1984 to December, 1989. This force fought against the United States invasion
(Operation Just Cause).
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Numbers Issued
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Pieces known include #002. According to one source only a "handful" of these
were made. According to a second source, there are 24 in two sets numbered 001
through 012.
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Rarity
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Very Rare.
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Manufacturer
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Foto Grabados Fundora of Panama.
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Source
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Levy Collection.
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Varieties
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A similar
counterfeit exists, but they can be told apart fairly easily.
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Function
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Police/Military vest badge. These badges were developed as a pattern or prototype
by Foto Grabados Fundora. However, in March 1988 PDF Air Force Major Fundora
participated in a coup attempt against Noriega. As a result, all business was
canceled with Foto Grabados Fundora, owned by the major's father and brother.
So a production run of these badges was never done.
I would appreciate
e-mail from anyone who can add anything to the history of these badges.
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