In 1976, in part to have trademark and proprietary protections, the Boy Scouts of America mandated that all patches be marked. The mark could take the form of writing, “BSA”, “Boy Scouts of America” or “Scouting /USA”. Alternatively a fleur-de-lis or trefoil could be used.

This requirement applied to all OA patches as well.

While not foolproof, the lack of the presence of the proprietary mark on an OA patch typically means that the badge pre-dates 1976.  Patch traders often refer to badges issued prior to 1976 as "Pre fleur-de-lis".