I actually like the 97-99 crest, it has a regal feel to it
I have a story about that Crest...
In 1995 I wrote to PONY and suggested a few ideas for future kits... (I was probably too old to ever enter into the world of designing, plus I couldn't draw for shit... but knew what I had in mind, so thought I'd have a go and send them a letter...)
Anyway, 2 of the various things I suggested, was an away/3rd kit that gave a nod to one of our earliest Chocolate & Gold kits... they didn't go with that one...
But another suggestion was the subtle change of badge on all the kits to incorporate the shape and design of the Club shield, that (at the time) I remember used to be 'stuck' to the front of the East & West Stand rooves!
I thought no more about it... then, Lo and behold... a season and a half later; BINGO!
I dunno how much my suggestion influenced their final decision, but I like to think I played my little part in our mid-late 90s Badge/Shield.... if only for a season or two... 'cos the football we played in it was atrocious at times! Mind you... we won the League Cup with THAT Shield on our chest!
I still have a copy of the original typed letter ...I do believe I cut out and sent them a picture of the shield I was thinking of, from an old football magazine! (Mainly 'cos I couldn't draw it... imagine not just being able to 'Google image' it?)
True story that!