Is this Prussian Pilot's Badge and EK1 real?

[siegersallee]

Hi All,

I just joined this forum. I learned of it from the good folks at: LugerForum where my userid is siegersallee there too.

I found the Pilots Badge and EK1 below and I have been trying to determine if they are real or fake.
I have been reading several posts about the proliferation of fakes and fakes so good that only an expert can really tell.
I read a number of posts from "Ferg1" and "Steven M" about fakes and reals and now I am totally confused.

Any advice on the originality and authenticity of this set is very much appreciated.

For what it worth, the proliferation of "faked" (pieces and parts married together) lugers has reached epidemic proportions...so sad.

Thanks,
Richard

[Chopperman]

The Ek IS a fake.
I am no expert on pilot's badges but my gut says ---BAD

[siegersallee]

I had thought the same thing; but, I wanted a more informed opinion than simply my gut.

Thanks so much for your input.


These medals are on Ebay (US). I contacted the seller and he says he thinks they are fake but the auction does not say this.
I think he is party to whole scam...

Ebay takes caveat emptor to a new level...remember: "...there's a sucker born every day, that's the Ebay way!!!"

[Chopperman]

I agree--Ebay can be a scary place but if you do your home work, you can find some
great pieces there. Over half my collection can off ebay. Including my 1813 and a
couple of 1870s.

[siegersallee]

I admit that I too have purchased militaria off of Ebay; and as you say, I did a lot of homework.
I asked on the Luger forum, the Pickelhaube forum and now that I am getting into medals, this forum.

Guys like you have save me from making very poor purchases and for that I thank you.

I just purchased an EK1 that I am 89% sure is not a fake. Once I receive it I will post and get your thoughts on that too.

thanks again,
Richard

[Chopperman]

We would be happy to take a look at it.