Fake Orders of the Red Star

[USSR]

Thanks guys! I will stay away from it!

Bill Garvy; apparently the order is not only for sale on E but on an other auction site as well... Could it be in two different places at the same time? :cool:

[Bill Garvy]

As the only reasonable explanation, many are being manufactured utilizing that very same serial number. I too have seen them in different places and being sold by different vendors.

[mzgti2u]

Hi! I have a badge that I am trying to find out if it's authentic or not. My Grandfather had it in his footlocker. According to the Serial Number it belonged to Leonid Solodkov, and wasn the last one awarded in ceremony... S/N 11664
I have uploaded two photos. I'd be grateful for any insight!
Thanks!
Elizabeth

[USSR]

Wow, thats a rare piece Elizabeth! I don't see any problems but lets wait what the experts have to say.

Anyway, if it is original, you've got a wonderful piece!

[rocketscientist]

It would deserve better pictures!

[marsino]

Everything seems to be consistent, mint mark and serial number, but the rear surface is very strange, to be allocated to the image?

[mzgti2u]

HI Guys! thanks for the insight! I will try and get some better photos!
I'm really curious how he obtained it since he was in Austria investigating the steel factories and not in combat...
Elizabeth

[CtahhR]

It must be remembered that Austria was under Allied Occupation until 1955 so there will have been opportunities for service personnel of all four sides to do a little bit of trading on the quiet.
It may be that a former Greater German (Austrian) soldier "captured" it on the eastern front and then after capitulation etc. traded it for food or other necessaries.

Members of my own family who did trading with folks on the continent brought back many different items that they would never have been viable for issue or award. Mainly uniforms or perishables but there is very little interest in period uniforms or perished goods.

[mzgti2u]

Hi all!
Here are some (hopefully) better photos of the badge.
Thanks!
Elizabeth

[desantnik]

Everything looks as it should including screwback plate - it may be re-enamelled, however.