Fake medals?

[Dimitri]

Hi there everyone-

I have been reading in the OMRS journals, the distressing news that WW1 medals are apearing on the market faked. As most people are aware renaming of Great War medals is nothing new as is the faking of paperwork (Memorial scrolls come to mind). I was wondering if anyone has actually come across faked WW1 medals? Who would want to fake VMs for example? Anyways, thoughts anyone? Best regards

Dimitri

[Guest Pete Wood]

Have a look at the difficulties of spotting a fake 'Star' on the Spink website - you need to look under the section marked Numismatic Notes

I will happily give my 'opinion' on the memorial scrolls at any time. When it comes to the plaques, all I can say is that I would be very concerned about one which has an engraved name (it happened, but not often), rather than a cast name. I am currently working on a process which will hopefully prevent anyone getting away with 'doctoring' a plaque in any way in the future. I'll keep the forum informed of any progress, here.

[Guest Ian Bowbrick]

Hi there everyone-

I have been reading in the OMRS journals, the distressing news that WW1 medals are apearing on the market faked. As most people are aware renaming of Great War medals is nothing new as is the faking of paperwork (Memorial scrolls come to mind). I was wondering if anyone has actually come across faked WW1 medals? Who would want to fake VMs for example? Anyways, thoughts anyone? Best regards

Dimitri

You can buy modern 14 Stars, 14/15 Stars, BWMs & VMs - BWMs are particularly sought after as many originals ended up in the melting pot in the 1970s when the price of silver exceeded the price of a BWM or were sold in the 1930s during the depression to put food on the table.

There are ways of spotting fakes, particularly the Stars. See Howard Williamson's book on collecting militaria for further information.

Ian

[Guest Ian Bowbrick]

Just to add to my last post, one of the most faked medals to be found at the moment is the bronze BWM issued to overseas Labour Units. The way to spot it is that the suspension and planchet is one piece, rather than two piece joined with a pin.

The fakes are being made in Hong Kong.

Ian

[Terry]

I have noticed on ebay one particular UK seller who seems to have an unending supply of unnamed 14 and 14-15 stars. He has in recent months changed the wording of the descriptions a bit to indicate that they "might" be copies!

[Guest Ian Bowbrick]

Oh yes Terry and have you read his about Me page!!

Ian

[Dimitri]

Afternoon-

RT thank you for the link. Quite interesting!! Unfortunately I do not see any photos! It would be nice if someone could post a fake next to an original (a Star maybe).

IAN thanks for the tips. I do not own a copy of Willianson's book. I have heard good things about it though and I am considering of purchasing a copy. Try carrying that to the next medal fair Thanks lads, best regards

Dimitri

[Terry]

Ian,

No, I haven't. Can I assume it makes for good reading?

[Neil Burns]

I've seen recently at shows a BWM where the back details are spare and the King's nose on the obverse is rather cartoony (too large). THese are unamed and sold as copies but who knows what they will be sold as in a few years.

Take care,

Neil