Early WWII Lost Boat USS Grayling SS-209 Celluloid Launch Button / Badge

This is an early World War II submarine launch badge for the USS Grayling SS-209, launched September 4, 1940 at Portsmouth (NH) Navy Yard. Before starting her World War II service, Grayling aided in an unsuccessful rescue mission for USS O-9 (SS-70) at the Isles of Shoals off the coast of Maine and New Hampshire. Grayling was then called upon to be the host ship for the Pacific Fleet change of command ceremony at Pearl Harbor, and Admiral Chester Nimitz boarded her decks to fly his flag as new commander. Presumed lost in early September 1943 off Manila, Grayling received six battle stars for her World War II service and had all but one of her eight war patrols declared successful.

Circa 1940.

Approximately 1-7/16" in diameter.

Celluloid-wrapped tin.

Vertical safety-style pin.

None.

This is from a United States Navy collection which we will be listing more of over the next few months. RAL4/90 LFHX7/11

8+ (Excellent): The badge shows very light wear only.

As with all my artifacts, this piece is guaranteed to be original, as described.