The Colonial Badge or "Elephant's Order"

[RPN]

Hello colleagues

My friend picked this up in a local auction and was wondering if it is an original. Via the WWW (wonderful invention ) I've learnt that it is "Das Kolonialabzeichen" also called the "Elephantenorden, awarded to all German colonials who, during the 1st WW and in the former German colonies, were acting or serving on behalf of the colonies ... instituted in October 1921 ... purchased by the recipient ... some 8000 issued" (Micheal Shackelford, 1998).

The pics are not all that sharp, but in comparison with later pins of the 1930s period looks to be of similar quality. I've not seen one of these before however.

Is there a chance that it's original? I'd be grateful for opinions!

Thanks
Paul

[paddywhack]

iv got one to and there mad little thing!!though there are plenty of fakes out there!!

[Claudius]

Hmmmm. The reverse seems to have a lot of forced scuffing. It seems to have come in different directions and depths (artificial?). And the lettering on the front isn't as crisp as I would typically see. For example, the first "s" and the last "e" in "SUDSEE".

But what do others have to say that own more than two of these...

[VtwinVince]

Paul, that one looks good to me. Perhaps someone cleaned the reverse, but otherwise it is a match for mine.

[RPN]

Thank you very much for your comments guys - I'll share them with the owner of the badge.

Best wishes
Paul