I bought a couple of Combat Infantryman Badges yesterday from a scrap gold and silver dealer. Both badges were clutch back and marked STERLING in block letters. Is there a way to date these from the markings? Thanks

Front and back are the same on both badges but one was painted white.

The sterling marked ones are generally considered to be WWII era, although I am sure used into Korea. The short post ones are most definately WWII. ( Sterling was a non strategic metal in WW2 so more available for insignia use) You start seeing the 1955 Meyer double shield mark on some, and just to add to the confusion, some Vietnam era ones are also made of sterling with the Multiple award star, so you know its post WWII. But I would say yours are WWII.

Mr. Jerry, thank you. I appreciate your help and value your knowledge.