Kurland medal - SSVK 1919 Freikorps

[Sergeant 08]

I would like to hear some thoughts about this medal. Thanks!

[Sergeant 08]

Some details.

[Sergeant 08]

More.

[mchap]

This setup is familiar, was it a recent purchase?

Some of the details are muted, but it could be a build up of tarnish... its hard to tell if the grubby fingerprints are intentional or real oxidization. I think this one is probably ok but Im keen to hear other opinions.

Looking at these two sources as reference..
WAF thread:
http://dev.wehrmacht-awards.com/foru...hlight=kurland


NOT GOOD, close up photo of ebay # 221560476549 attached:

[Canutt]

In my opinion this medal is a fake. The letter "K" makes me say this.

[mchap]

Is it possible to get photos of the back straight on, with same sort of angled lighting? Initially my doubts were with the backside as well.

[Sergeant 08]

In my opinion this medal is a fake. The letter "K" makes me say this.

I do not see a problem with the "K"???

[Sergeant 08]

Is it possible to get photos of the back straight on, with same sort of angled lighting? Initially my doubts were with the backside as well.

The problem is the light!

PS: I was sure, somebody would ask me for such a better photo. I have already tried it!

[Sergeant 08]

No chance at the moment. Here is a photo with camera flash, but it gives you a wrong impression.

[mchap]

Is it possible to get a photo of the crest/eagle head straight on? (EDIT: ahh, you posted it when I was typing my message, thanks)

Its pretty clear that there is scrape damage at the lower left backside, which is effecting the foot of the cross , makers mark and edge. I can understand why a person would think the shallow K is the sign of a fake, although take into consideration the rest of the wear at the bottom half of the medal, it appears consistent.... in hand I bet it would be more clear.

[mchap]

Attached is a backside photo of the Kurland medal on ebay. The two medals share similar attributes which isnt good.

Since I've never had an original in hand I'm going to leave it at that, and let more experienced folks chime in.

[Brian L.]

common fake. This seller is a known crook. Avoid at all costs.

These are die cast from some unfinished copper alloy and artificially oxidized. Originals are bronze and have a matte gilt finish.
These fakes are easy to spot because they are too thin, lack detail and the area around the Oertel, Berlin maker mark on the reverse has casting residue and file marks. The Oertel mark fades a bit at the bottom. Originals are crisp.

[mchap]

Are there other known fakes with different identifying details? Is it possible to divulge the information concerning the medals thickness?

[Brian L.]

Are there other known fakes with different identifying details? Is it possible to divulge the information concerning the medals thickness?

I don't know the exact thickness of the medal. I just know this one is off. It has many things wrong with it. But, as far as I know this is the only fake in circulation and originated with the "Club" before moving on to other suspect dealers.