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Preliminary identification

U.S. Army Distinctive Unit Insignia (DUI) Pins, including 10th Cavalry Regiment

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a collection of U.S. Army 'Distinctive Unit Insignia' (DUI) pins, commonly known as unit crests, which use heraldic symbols to represent a unit's history and mission.

Story

The 10th Cavalry Regiment pin, featuring the mountain and pickaxe, carries the legacy of the 'Buffalo Soldiers,' one of the original African American regiments formed in 1866.

Maker / Origin

The hallmark 'E-23' visible on the reverse identifies the maker as Ira Green, Inc., one of the most prolific manufacturers of American military heraldry.

Condition & Value

The pins appear to be in good vintage condition with minor surface wear and some oxidation on the reverse. The enamel remains bright and intact, which is the primary driver of aesthetic value for DUI collectors. Condition is consistent with pieces that were actually worn on a service uniform.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
  • ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD