Thank you all for the thoughts. I admit that George's theory about color fading &/or changing didn't cross my mind, primarily because not all the green in the knot changed to gold.

I have a significant number of Feuerwehr knots that have tarnished, showing all sorts of color changes. At the very least, it makes for a beautiful group display. Will post one such knot in a new thread shortly.

It is a shame that this knot can't be more closely examined. It was sold in a lot with another etched bayonet for a decent amount of money.


GDC Gold Badge #290
GDC Silver Badge #310