Here is a recently-acquired piece. After researching threads on the Forum, here is what I believe to be correct about this item:
It is deeply die-struck, not cast. The colour of the uncleaned bronze is chocolate. The medal measures 38mm across; the wreath 17mm; the swastika 26mm and the numeral "8" is 30mm tall. The background stippling is what appears to be randon and fine. The leaves of the wreath are detailed and flat and the lettering sharp and clear. The runes on both sides appear to be of the correct size, and slightly flared at the ends on the obverse. The exterior tips of the swastika reach, but do not go into or overlap the recessed rim. Unless my eyes deceive me, it appears that the lower portion of the numeral "8" is slightly wider on the left than on the right side. The ribbon is 35mm wide.
Now comes the killer: The jump ring is not bevelled and the suspension ring not tear-shaped oval, nor is it soldered closed. Are these two details drop-dead signs of a fake/reproduction, or were such variations known?
The pictures are the absolute best that my scanner and digital camera can produce, so I hope that they are sufficient to enable opinions which will be appreciated - one way or the other, please. I can take it!
Thanks,
John
It is deeply die-struck, not cast. The colour of the uncleaned bronze is chocolate. The medal measures 38mm across; the wreath 17mm; the swastika 26mm and the numeral "8" is 30mm tall. The background stippling is what appears to be randon and fine. The leaves of the wreath are detailed and flat and the lettering sharp and clear. The runes on both sides appear to be of the correct size, and slightly flared at the ends on the obverse. The exterior tips of the swastika reach, but do not go into or overlap the recessed rim. Unless my eyes deceive me, it appears that the lower portion of the numeral "8" is slightly wider on the left than on the right side. The ribbon is 35mm wide.
Now comes the killer: The jump ring is not bevelled and the suspension ring not tear-shaped oval, nor is it soldered closed. Are these two details drop-dead signs of a fake/reproduction, or were such variations known?
The pictures are the absolute best that my scanner and digital camera can produce, so I hope that they are sufficient to enable opinions which will be appreciated - one way or the other, please. I can take it!
Thanks,
John
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