Page 232 and 233 of "Lugers at Random" by Kenyon discusses Death's Head Rework.
One of the comments on page 232 is "The death's head is thought by most collectors to be the insignia of the SS wing of the early (1930-33) Nazi party"(fair use excerpt).
On page 43 of the same work, a "Death Head" proof mark appears, stating that the mark is found on "a few early Nazi era reworks (1930-1933 period)", (also a fair use excerpt). The proof marked in the Kenyon book appears to be the same proof that appears on the two pistols on the Simpson website.
This would seem to indicate there is at least a variance of opinion concerning the existence and use of this marking. I do note that a couple of posters including Ed have suggested there is at least a possibility that the markings are authentic.
My opinion of Simpson's has not dropped, given the reference I read. I consider the matter unsettled. Should any of those opining on the matter in this thread wish to quote authoritative support for their views that the markings on the two pistols at Simpsons are bogus, and should be known by Simpson's to be bogus, that would be interesting.
I have also found Simpson's to be careful and to retrieve the pistol from inventory and discuss it in detail when a caller inquires. I therefore second Ed's suggestion that those who feel the proof is bogus discuss their concerns direct with the retailer before publicly castigating them.
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