1870 EK2 w/ 25 year bar

[Stepdale]

Hello,
I got this one about 15 years ago from a friend. I've already shown it to one well known EK collector who told me he has one of these with provenance, but that most collectors do not believe them to be original to the period. So, I don't know what others on here will say, but here's your chance. I won't defend it or fight anyone's opinion as it is definitely beyond my expertise.
Thank you,
Dale

[Stepdale]

a

[Stepdale]

b

[morel5000]

Hi Dale,

this one is considered a fake, the "bad crown fake",

Best regards,
Michel

P.S.

if that provenance is a period photo of a veteran wearing this ek2 where core details can be identified on that photo, I might reconsider my opinion.
Until that day I will consider this a fake.

[Brian R]

Yes, these are considered fake. However, I'm convinced there is more to this story. Either they are not fake or only some are fake. The main issue that people point to is the EK1 posted years ago on Detlev Niemann's Fake of the Week. I have a medal bar with a similar EK on this thread....

http://dev.wehrmacht-awards.com/foru...d.php?t=415647

I'm convinced that it is an original set-up based on the construction of the bar and the way the medals are tied down. I do, however, find my EK to be a bit different than the one you posted (mainly the finish) but it makes me think that there is still some mystery here. I believe the story still goes on. I wonder if the one posted by Detlev is an original core placed in a fantasy EK1 set-up in order to create a "more valuable" cross.

[morel5000]

Hi Brian,

I don't agree with

I'm convinced that it is an original set-up based on the construction of the bar and the way the medals are tied down

.

If you look at the back of your bar you can clearly see the EK ribbon is not consistent, as also mentioned in the thread by VtwinVince.

Sorry,
Michel

[Brian R]

Thanks, Michel. I remember when VtwinVince wrote that and I checked it in detail afterward. It does appear to be sewn the same way, its just that its fanning out because it is coming apart. Also, you can see the way (in hand) how it is tied down to the plate - the finish and technique are both consistent with the other medals.

[morel5000]

Hi Brian,

I agree with the VtwinVince's opinion, although I don't have it in hand and can only base my opinion on these photos. I am also curious why there is stitching through the blue backing cloth only at the position of the ek2.

I can only accept a contemporary picture showing this core as Evidence

Thanks ,
Michel

[Brian R]

I agree with the VtwinVince's opinion, although I don't have it in hand and can only base my opinion on these photos. I am also curious why there is stitching through the blue backing cloth only at the position of the ek2.

There is stitching at the other spots too, and on the top, across the border between the backing and the ribbons. It's worn out but does seem consistent. I do admit, and agree with you, that there seems to be too much stitching at the base of the EK relative to the others. Its certainly is something to question.

[Stepdale]

Well, guess that's all the commentary the cross will get. What about the 25 year bar, is it considered original or not?
Dale

[gregM]

The cross is a fake and I don't really like the oaks.
Are they cast or stamped? They look to be a cast
copy of this style-----

[römischIX]

imo the oaks are not good, but i am not a specialist there.
i don`t like the single bar, too...

[Stepdale]

Here you go, pictures of the oaks. I took a chance and took them off, luckily I didn't break either of the prongs.

[Stepdale]

a

[römischIX]

i would say it is an "abguss" of an original piece...