Origins of the Diamond 13: The Forgotten Patch That Paved the Way

Dedication

This book is dedicated to American motorcycle clubs — past, present, and future.

To those who ride their own line, live by their own code, and carry the fire of rebellion in their veins.

TB

Introduction

Before the infamous 1% diamond patch came to define the outlaw biker world, there was another emblem—older, rarer, and steeped in resistance. That patch was the Diamond 13. This document aims to provide the most comprehensive history of the Diamond 13 patch: its origins, symbolism, evolution, and influence on modern outlaw motorcycle culture.

Chapter 1: The Birth of the Diamond 13

In the 1930s and 1940s, the American Motorcycle Association (AMA) dominated sanctioned motorcycle racing. Independent clubs—especially in Southern California—rejected the AMA's strict rules and favoritism. These rebel clubs formed their own league: the Southern California Outlaw Federation (SCOF).

To honor its top-performing clubs, SCOF awarded a small diamond-shaped patch with the number "13" inside. The top 13 outlaw racing clubs were given this symbol of excellence, rebellion, and independence. That patch became known as the Diamond 13.

But it wasn’t just a patch. Clubs that received the Diamond 13 were also presented with trophies, commemorating their standings. In this way, the patch functioned as both a physical award and a visual declaration of outlaw status.

Chapter 2: Symbolism Behind the 13

The number "13" carried layered and evolving meanings:

• Original meaning: Recognition of being one of the Top 13 outlaw racing clubs under the Southern California Outlaw Federation.

• M = 13th letter of the alphabet – stood for Marijuana or Motorcycle, depending on who you asked.

• 13 letters in the phrase "Motorcycle Outlaw" – reinforcing anti-establishment identity.

• Bad luck or rebellion – embracing the unluckiest number as a badge of honor.

• Some say it stood for 13 courts/judges, representing the justice system the clubs defied.

• Other interpretations included “12 jurors and one judge,” implying no faith in the system.

The diamond shape itself—sharp, distinct, and badge-like—gave the number more weight. Wearing it said more than words ever could.

Chapter 3: Clubs That Wore the Patch

While not all records survive, several Southern California clubs are believed to have worn the Diamond 13 patch in the 1940s and early 1950s:

• Moonshiners MC

• Yellow Jackets MC

• Pissed Off Bastards of Bloomington (POBOB)

• Blue Angels

• Top Hatters MC (later chapters)

These were clubs that prioritized freedom, racing, and noncompliance over recognition by the AMA. Many went on to either join or influence what would later become outlaw MCs in the modern sense.

Chapter 4: From 13 to 1%

After the 1947 Hollister Riot—a wild, media-hyped biker party that got blown out of proportion—the AMA reportedly declared that "99% of motorcyclists are law-abiding citizens." Bikers who already felt rejected by the AMA embraced the label of the other 1%.

The 1% diamond patch began to surface in the late 1950s and early '60s. It borrowed directly from the Diamond 13 shape but replaced the number to make a new, even bolder outlaw statement.

Over time, the 1% diamond became the defining symbol of some outlaw clubs . But the shape, the spirit—and in many ways, the attitude—came from Diamond 13.

Some OGs say: “Before there was 1%, there was 13.”

Chapter 5: Diamond 13’s Fade and Revival

As the 1% patch gained momentum in the '60s and '70s, the Diamond 13 quietly faded from most club vests. It became a piece of forgotten history—an old-school relic few outside the scene even knew existed.

But it never died.

In the 2000s, historians, veteran riders, and vintage MCs began to revive awareness of the Diamond 13. Some boutique patches, collector forums, and outlaw historians have brought the symbol back into circulation—not to replace the 1%, but to recognize where it all began.

In some circles, riders now wear the Diamond 13 to show:

• They know their history.

• They honor the old ways.

• They come from a line of road rebels that predated the hype.

Chapter 6: Diamond 13 vs. 1% – What’s the Difference?

Conclusion: A Symbol Reclaimed

The Diamond 13 patch may not be seen on every vest today, but it's the foundation that modern outlaw culture stands on. It was rebellion before rebellion had a number. It was brotherhood, racing pride, and screw-the-system grit wrapped into one small diamond.

If you ever see someone wearing it today, know this—they’re likely paying tribute to a chapter of biker history that built the road the rest ride on.

Ride Free. Stay Sharp. Never Forget Where It Started.

The Jest Jokin' Legacy

Around here, the Diamond 13 ain’t just a patch—it’s part of the DNA. You’ll see it stitched, inked, or painted wherever real ones gather. It’s not about pretending to be an outlaw. It’s about remembering that we don’t need to fit in—we build our own damn roads.

So when you see that jester with the 13 on his chest, just know—it’s not a joke. It’s the badge of the bold.    see the whole story at jestjokin.com   Dimond 13 club 1939