WW2 Japanese Original Submarine Badge

This original WWII Imperial Japanese Navy submarine badge was purchased from the widow of WW II US Navy Veteran about a year ago.  I was very happy to add it to my collection as I have always been fascinated by the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) submarine force.  The IJN ensign collar rank insignia and the IJN bullion hat badge that are pictured, along with some other insignia that is not pictured, were purchased from her at the same time.

Since these WW2 Japanese submarine badges have been heavily reproduced in recent years, I have posted close up photos of both the front and back so you can see what a real WWII Japanese sub badge looks like.  Please note that the blue color that shows up on the front of the submarine badge is not actually on the badge, it is just a reflection of our camera which is also blue.

The IJN ensign collar rank and bullion hat badge pictured are not submarine service specific, they were used throughout the Japanese Navy.  Since they were brought back from the war by the same Veteran, I have included them in this post.

Please keep in mind that I am interested in all types of WWII Japanese Navy items, not just submarine items.  I am especially interested in purchasing items directly from WW2 Veterans or their family members.  If you have any of these items you consider selling, please contact me via the information on my War Souvenirs Wanted page.