Why is this IAB a fake? (I want to learn)

[Mitglieder]

This badge has previously been tagged as a fake from an earlier thread. Since I am fairly new to this hobby, I would appreciate some tips and observations, that may help me make a better choice next time. Also I am going to need some ammunition when I ask for my money back at the next militaria show.

[Thomas Durante]

Hi,

This particular type of fake is trying to certain type of IAB known as the "4-rivet" IAB. It has a very similar design, but not the same and will be found with all sorts of reverse setups. That base metals that is used is also unlike originals and these can be found with all sorts of spurious maker marks in an attempt to add legitamecy to them.

Here are just a few for you, all fakes like this one. The first is a screwback fake (same fake as the screwback Assmann GABs). And the 2nd is an attempt at a copy of the 4-rivet hardware.

[Thomas Durante]

A few more, one marked GWL and another marked "Ralf 44".

All garbage.

Tom

[5ribbonbar]

You could also pick up the book " THE INFANTRY ASSAULT BADGES " by Sascha Weber as this would be a good starting point for learning about these badges. Certainly research on the WAF is great as well.