[tom]

There was no "standard" way of applying or "Protecting" unit markings. They were applied by the unit armorer and/or blacksmith, often at an additional charge to the unit commander as this was not a part of the "prescribed duties" for either the armorer or 'smith.


There is one way to determine if the markings have been reblued...the marks should have a slight discoloration-graying normally-that is proximate to their margins. This is the result of the application of the markings disrupting the surface *surrounding* the marks, which, inturn, affects the bluing. This is sometimes referred to as the "Halo" effect.


As a good rule of thumb, if the halo effect is not present, the piece has probably been reblued or touched up at some point.


Hope this helps,


Tom