Kriegsverdienstkreuz 1st Klasse - Kerbach & Osterhelt - Genuine?

[Moshemotom]

Hello

Could I please get some opinions on the photos below? It looks good (to my untrained eye) I just have a slight concern about the pin on the back, both the difference in colour and the way the makers mark is stamped.

There is another example in this sub-forum where the 62 looks differed and with less surrounding stamping. The colour also matches the badge.

Please let me know what you think.

Thanks in advance
Tom

[Adrian]

Hello Tom,

Looks like a good original zinc award with cast in reverse hardware by maker Kerbach & Österhelt.
It has the variant semi hollow pin which is obviously made out of a different material than the KVK.

I see nothing wrong with the makers mark from these images.

[rbminis]

Hello Tom,

Looks like a good original zinc award with cast in reverse hardware by maker Kerbach & Österhelt.
It has the variant semi hollow pin which is obviously made out of a different material than the KVK.

I see nothing wrong with the makers mark from these images.

I agree with Adrian.
Ralph.

[Moshemotom]

Hi both

Thank you very much for your replies and confirmation this award is all fine. I will get in touch with the seller.

Adrian, excuse my ignorance but what do you mean when you say ‘cast in reverse hardware’, I don’t quite understand.

Thanks again
Tom

[Adrian]

You see the hinge and catch are molded as part of the actual award. They aren't separate attached pieces. They are integral, made at the same time as the cross.

[Moshemotom]

Thanks very much Adrian, I understand now.

I misread ‘cast in reverse’ and ‘hardware’ separately rather than that the reverse was cast along with the medal itself. What a div!

Really appreciate your help authenticating this medal, I have now agreed to purchase it.

Cheers!
Tom