Early Assmann GAB or a FAKE?

[Panzercracker]

Looks like a convincing early Assmann GAB right? Don't know what the base metal is, but as far as I know, 1.1.2 is a hollow steel and can have just one cut-out on the right side. This one looks to have both areas filled in. I vaguely remember seeing a GAB, like this one, years ago, with both sides filled in, but I forget now if that was here -or somewhere else... Anyway, real or a decent fake?

[Thomas Durante]

Hi Ken,

Any better pics? Just based on these, I see a few red flags and would say its a fake.

Tom

[Panzercracker]

Unfortunately, these are all that's provided. I was hoping maybe something earlier than the steel issue Assmann, as the detail on the eagle head's pretty crisp and the "flat-stock" catch adds to the "intrigue". The details along the upper L.H.S. (10 O'Clock) are "slightly out". Pin looks very suspect or replaced? Thanks for the fast input Tom.

--Best, Ken

[Thomas Durante]

Ken,

This obverse design has been used on several fakes in the past, especially the well made S&L fakes. Frank Heukemes shows two of these in his GAB book, page 394 & 395 (Reproduction #9 & 10). The weird oakleaves on the left side as you pointed out are indeed a big red flag with these.

You can also see a similar fake in the GAB Fakes Database, although it is a solidback:

Tom

[Thomas Durante]

Several similar points on both.....no doubt a fake.

Tom

[Eddie]

Hi Ken,i agree with Tom,this GAB is 100% reproduction

[Panzercracker]

I think Tom's initial response was good enough for me as I was suspicious about it. No need for over kill. Thanks again Tom.

--Ken

[Jock Auld]

Guys,

Any idea when this copy dates from?

I have a pal just been stung with this and I nearly was as well since it was in a job lot coming to me.

He maintains it is from an old boy but I have told him to stop beleiving stories.

To be fair it is a cracking looking badge in the hand and I am surpised not to see more of these copies.

Its the alloy that makes you look twice something just not right.

Cheers

Jock

[Thomas Durante]

Hi Jock,

I have seen these around for at least 5 years or so, but can imagine they are a bit later than that. I don't think they would be more than 10 or 15 years old though. In any event, it would be good to post pics of your GAB so we can be sure it is EXACTLY the same.

Tom

[Jock Auld]

Hi Jock,

I have seen these around for at least 5 years or so, but can imagine they are a bit later than that. I don't think they would be more than 10 or 15 years old though. In any event, it would be good to post pics of your GAB so we can be sure it is EXACTLY the same.

Tom

Tom,

I have given it back but will try and bend in tomorrow and take some pics.

I can say it looks identical except the die flaw on the grenade is gone and no fault at the wing tip.

To be clear it only had the oakleave fault otherwise identical to the badge starting this thread.

Regards

Jock

[Graeme]

Hi Ken

Can you upload the pics to the GAB fake area please.

imo definitely a bad one. Apart from the flaws pointed out, additionally the finish on the inside edges looks rough and you do not often get the small hinge pin extending out of both sides of a hinge.

best regards
Graeme