USSR Wrote:Sergio, I think the H&S is replaced with a gold one from the OPW. My concern is with the oxidation on the order. Neither silver nor gold have a problem with rust and an original Order of Labour Glory is made of silver...:confused:
Sorry USSR, I was too drastic when I talked about rust... I did not mean that I can see rust directly on the metal, but it seems there is some in the layer of dirt which covers the medal especially in the H&S area, as it can be seen from the pictures. I do not think it comes directly from the order, maybe the color is from a sort of glue used to keep the H&S in position (since the "rivets" might be just pins)
In that case, I think you've got a nice and interesting item. The original owner probably replaced the hammer and sickle with a gold one because his order was damaged. I don't think a dealer would do that with gold. :thumbsup
Two giant red flags: NO RETURNS and from overseas.
What happens if you get an empty box, or a box containing copies?
Good rule for buying medals: Know your buyer who offers a money back guarentee. It's that simple. Or take a big gamble on a stranger who takes your money with no money back guarantee and hope that he is honest. Believe me, there are clever people out there working hard to take your money on auction sites.
There is another Labour Glory set on the auction site going for over $24K.
From Ukraine. You don't know the seller. He offers a money back guarantee (if returned in 14 days). My personal experience, don't send by registered mail! I sent a gift to Ukraine this Christmas by registered mail to prevent theft...took over a month!!!
While this offer looks tempting, who has $24K to gamble? But on the other hand, if you get burned, think of it has a $24K lesson and please share your experience with the rest of us!!!:laff
I think something is being overlooked here. Never mind "look at the shiny shinies", fake or otherwise, for what efforts were these supposed to be awarded? There are of course sexier and less sexy "labour" efforts. Mining? Farming? Foresting? Mass Production?
Research has come a long way in the last decade from the "we'll never know" opinion. Hardcore collectors will be willing to pay different prices for differing professions.
