WASHINGTON STATE PATROL

NEW REPRODUCTION

June 1, 2003

Collectors should be aware that a new Washington State Patrol reproduction has surfaced on the collectors market.  The badge carries the Blackinton maker mark.  Blackinton does not and has not held the official Washington State Patrol contract, according to the department.  Although this badge looks almost exactly like the current issue WSP badge, it appears to be a parts badge rather than a solid die.  The badge is being offered for sale at badge shows and on the internet auction sites, often advertised as a department issue badge.  The value of this badge should be rated only for the material of manufacture, and should not be considered a "department issue" by collectors.  It can be considered as an "officer's second", if desired.  Here is a close up photo of the reproduction.