1870 EK1 - opinions please

[EK Hunter]

Please have a look at this cross, supposedly produced around the period of WW1. Is this some kind of commemorative piece, or an elaborate fake?

Best, Alex

https://www.blackcrossmilitaria.com/...f4d8e0628d4b41

[Biro]

[QUOTE=EK Hunter;4494056]?...Is this some kind of commemorative piece, or an elaborate fake?....[/QUOTE

It looks very much like the 9th bead fake to me - complete with makers mark of 'Y' - although the ONE photo that would be required to make absolutely sure of that (ie: a straight on obverse shot) is not provided.

I think that says it all....

Sad to see it's sold too. Hopefully to no one here.

Marshall

[gregM]

I also believe it's a "9th Bead" fake.
It's interesting how the seller provides close ups of everything
except the crown. The main picture is even shot with the crown
tipping away from the camera

[morel5000]

Yes Nine Bead fake IMO.
Lot of monet down the drain

Best regards,
Michel

[streptile]

Ninth Beader, I agree.

[VtwinVince]

To the crusher with it

[EK Hunter]

Thanks for your expert opinions, guys. I had my serious doubts about this cross. And actually I'm a little surprised that Alden Hamilton would offer such a piece. But I'm assuming he simply made an honest mistake. I've purchased several Imperial and TR awards from him over the years and have never had a problem. Has anyone here dealt with him as well?

Best,

Alex

[streptile]

Honestly, I am never surprised when any dealer sells a fake. And I've seen many, many fakes on that site sold as real. The only defense is to educate oneself.

[Brad Posey]

It looks like it is sold....how much did it sell for?

I hope nobody here bought it.


.

[Bernie Brule]

Could someone explain what the 9th bead fake is? In other words, how do you spot one.

[morel5000]

Collage for future reference

Best regards,
Michel

[gregM]

The "9th Bead Fake" is a very well made fake 1870 iron cross.
It can easily (in most cases) be distinguished by the detail of the
beading in the obverse side crown.

The 9th bead from the left is slightly larger than the rest and being
larger, on a majority of these crosses the paint is rubbed off making
the 9th bead very easy to spot. In addition to the 9th bead being
larger, the 5th bead from the left sits lower than the rest. Also, the
9th bead fake uses a over/under style "8" in the 1870 date as opposed
to a flat 8 used on awarded "type A" style crosses.

Not all over/under 8 crosses are bad but you will never find a 9th
bead fake that does not have this style date.

[gregM]

the date

[gregM]

Here is an example of a typical ebay picture. You can see how the 9th
bead is glowing like a neon sign.

if you do a forum search for "9th bead" you will find dozens of threads
posted concerning this fakes.

[AFF96]

Thanks GregM! That is the BEST illustrated presentation of the 9th bead fake I have ever seen. Very well done!
GREATLY appreciate it!
Greg