Three Ways To Decipher An Authentic Antique Military Medal From A Fake

Few scenarios are as disappointing as finding what you believe to be a rare or antique military medal, only to discover later that the piece is not what you assumed. Whether it is a 1914 Jeweler Marked First Class Iron Cross or other medal, you need to know that it is real. Fortunately, there are specific measures you can take to ensure this. If you are on the quest for an antique medal, learn about some of the indicators that can keep you from being disappointed.

Quantity

If you plan to buy the medal online, pay close attention to the number of medals the retailer has available. Finding medals in good quality is not always easy, so if someone has a large quantity of the same medal available for you to purchase, there is a good possibility that the pieces are not authentic but replicas. 

Even if you visit a militaria collection shop, a large quantity of the same rare medal is a red flag. However, if the retailer is a well-known collector, the number of medals they have available might not be as large an issue. 

Clasp 

Look on the rear side of the medal for further indication of its authenticity. For example, an iron cross medal could be worn strung from a ribbon or like a brooch. Consequently, each medal should have a small clasp affixed to its rear side. Look at the condition of the clasp. If the clasp resembles the same style clasp used on the jewelry you own, it may not be real. 

During the era when the iron cross was designed, a pin style clasp would have likely been used. Additionally, many of the iron cross medals have a manufacturer ID on their clasp. However, keep in mind that not all clasps had the ID marking, so the absence of one does not mean the piece is fake. 

Flexibility

An authentic military medal should not be flexible. Any movement in the metal when you touch it is a huge warning sign. If you can, pick the medal up and hold one side in each hand, then try to twist or bend the medal. 

Authentic medals of the past were made from solid metal because they were designed to withstand all types of conditions, including combat. If the medal has any flexibility, it's likely that the medal is not solid metal and may also contain plastic elements, which means that it is a reproduction and not an official medal. 

Collecting antique medals is a journey; a journey you have to be patient and prepared for. Ensure you know the cues to look for and be prepared to take your time to find exactly the piece you are looking for. 

Share