STS-51J
The STS-51J crew wore the standard AB Emblem embroidered mission emblems on their flight suits and on their in-flight clothing, thus there is no rare 'crew patch' for this mission.
Note that as far we know no Lion Brothers patch was ever produced for this mission, and no vintage Cape Kennedy Medals version has been identified either.
Embroidered Mission Patches
A-B Emblem patch
Worn by crew?
Yes.
Flown?
Yes.
Manufacturer:
A-B Emblem.
Distribution:
Sold as souvenirs.
Dimensions:
4⅛ x 4¾" / 105 x 119mm..
Type:
Fully embroidered. Merrowed border with tail.
Scarcity:
Common.
Value:
Minimal value.
The AB Emblem patch was the version used by the crew. The patch has a separate name tab sewn on at the bottom.
Swissartex patch
Worn by crew?
No.
Flown?
No.
Manufacturer:
Swissartex Emblem Inc.
Distribution:
Sold as souvenirs.
Dimensions:
4 x 4½" / 101 x 115mm.
Type:
Fully embroidered. Merrowed border with tail.
Scarcity:
Uncommon.
Value:
Vintage examples sell for $10-$15.
The vintage version of the Swissartex STS-51J mission patch exists both with a waxy plastic backing and with a vacuum sealed
clear plastic coating on the reverse. The fronts of the two versions are virtually identical.
The Swissartex patch was only ever produced as a one-piece design.