Fake GTO badges

[dannybou]

This one was just recently listed. In the book Badges of the defensive Societies of the USSR there are several variations. The one that resembles this one the most has a different nut and the mirror reverse is not quite the same. Still, the obverse and reverse looks good. Opinions please? The seller always offers a 7 day money back guarantee.

[Chuck In Oregon]

Hi Danny

Here's one that I have, a flat back rather than a mirror reverse, and a lower number. The pin on mine has been broken off.

Do you think the one you showed might be fake? I guess it's possible. In my experience, this badge -- early silver, 2nd step, numbered -- is hard to find. I have quite a few GTO/BGTO badges but this is the only example of this variant that I ever came across. As usual, my scanner imparts a cream hue that is not there under normal light.

Chuck

[dannybou]

I'm not sure Chuck if the badge is authentic. I know this badge is quite rare and will sell for a hefty price...... if legit. There are a few discripencies like I mentionned in my original post that make me wonder....

[desantnik]

I too don't like the looks of it. In particular, the style of the serial number, the "stilted" runner, and the polished surfaces on the back. The front looks very well done, but something is not right in comparison to other similarl GTOs. I never in my life thought I'd see a faked GTO.

[Alfred]

This one was just recently listed. In the book Badges of the defensive Societies of the USSR there are several variations. The one that resembles this one the most has a different nut and the mirror reverse is not quite the same. Still, the obverse and reverse looks good. Opinions please? The seller always offers a 7 day money back guarantee.

Hi Danny,

in the uralski fotocatalog 3 is a picture of your gto badge with a near by serial number. Looks like the same typ.

regards
Andreas

[dannybou]

Andreas, I agree that this badge looks the same. I have the same book and used it to compare with the one in post 1. But there are a few differences. One the nut isn't the same at all. No big deal as it could be a replacement nut. Where there is a difference, is in the reverse. The running man isn't has detailed as the photo in the book. Also, there are three marks to the left of the serial number. In the book those marks aren't there. Are they scuff marks? I don't know. The serial number isn't quite the same. Am I being paranoid? Maybe but if I am not 100% convinced that this badge is authentic, i will pass because such a badge will be expensive. That's where I am hesitating...

[Alfred]

What do you think about this "Ready for Defence" badge?

thanks and best regards
Andreas

[Lapa]

Andreas,

I have not (yet...) heard of or seen fakes of these.

Marc

[Nota Bene]

Looks good to me.

I believe some of them are being faked. At least that's what I've heard.

Alexei

[Lapa]

...I believe some of them are being faked. At least that's what I've heard...

Why am I not surprized to hear that? :rolleyes:

Marc