Order of the Patriotic War - REAL or FAKE?

[Astrath]

Hello friends, this medal is being sold on a site in Brazil, I would like the opinion of you about the quality and authenticity of this piece, especially the fabric of medal barreta looks pretty good for a part of 1943. What do you think?
Thank you.

[Bill Garvy]

In my opinion it is a reproduction; chemical/artificial patina, serial number engraving, missing mint mark, ribbon material, etc.

[Astrath]

I missed some wear on the red tape and the frame holding the tape appears to be greater than that seen in the original medals period agrees?

[Bill Garvy]

Agreed, the ribbon material appears new, while the "frame" appears artificially aged. If this piece were offered to me I would politely decline.

[Astrath]

Thank you very much Bill.

[Watchdog]

I don't like this one at all, for all the reasons stated.

The ribbon being replaced would not phase me as Soviet medals tend to have been actually worn far more than western ones and this can have a huge effect on the state of the ribbon which may have been replaced for aesthetic reasons by the original owner. However, it would affect the value a little.

In this case though as the medal doesn't appear to be authentic this is an academic point. Another point to note is that the photos are less sharp or focussed than is ideal when trying to show off such a piece to best advantage. Whilst it is entirely possible that this is simply poor photography there is little excuse for it these days and this is one of the oldest tricks used by dishonest sellers to cover obvious red flags (no pun intended). I would stay away from this one and depending on your relationship with the seller I think I might not be all that polite in declining.

Regards

Mark

[Astrath]

I don't like this one at all, for all the reasons stated.

The ribbon being replaced would not phase me as Soviet medals tend to have been actually worn far more than western ones and this can have a huge effect on the state of the ribbon which may have been replaced for aesthetic reasons by the original owner. However, it would affect the value a little.

In this case though as the medal doesn't appear to be authentic this is an academic point. Another point to note is that the photos are less sharp or focussed than is ideal when trying to show off such a piece to best advantage. Whilst it is entirely possible that this is simply poor photography there is little excuse for it these days and this is one of the oldest tricks used by dishonest sellers to cover obvious red flags (no pun intended). I would stay away from this one and depending on your relationship with the seller I think I might not be all that polite in declining.

Regards

Mark

Thank you for your information Mark, I was interested in buying these medals, but unfortunately I will pass.
Best Regards