Are you sure it's gold plating, and not just "mint luster"?
Quote:Originally posted by alconlon The reissues of the campaign medals were Gold Plated.These were issued later to those entitled that had not received them.
This is a photo of a type 3 Gold Plated Victory Over Germany medal.
Happy hunting.
Thanks,Al
Here are two type 3 medals, both very shiny, but not gold plated.
Is there a reliable, non-destructive way to tell? I read on McDaniels site that he has seen these gold-plated campaign medals and he writes they were most likely awarded to "General officers and Marshalls". I would assume this would make them at least R3. I would trust the authenticity better if I found one in my collection than seeing a "Genuine gold-plated WWII award" up for sale on EBay.
I've looked into buying a non-destructive gold-testing device before, but the price was outrageous. This was a few years ago and prices may have fallen. I know there is a destructive test, but it involves rubbing a small bit of the gold onto an abrasive block, just enough to leave a mark, then adding chemicals to the mark and what I would guess is that a certain reaction is supposed to take place.
It's not gold. Those type 3 medals were stamped with polished dies, which is why they are so shiny.
Quote:Originally posted by alconlon Alexei,
In McDaniels book,he mentions that the reissues of campaign medals have a "Thick Gold Wash".
I thought that meant real Gold,I could be completely incorrect since I have no way to test the medals in my collection.
Happy hunting.
Thanks,Al
Art,
There is a so called "magic pen" or pen gold tester, which also tests for silver, and platinum. I believe they cost $15-20, and I am sure you can find one on eBay. I don't have it yet, and don't know if it is reliable.
Alexei
Quote:Originally posted by Art Alexei,
Is there a reliable, non-destructive way to tell? ....
In "Red Army uniforms 1918-1945" they write that documents with red covers were given to parrticipants to the victory parade, june 24 1945. 10 000 pieces made. Are there any truth to that?
It's just one of the theories, but I am inclined to believe that it may be correct. All such documents I have seen were signed by high-ranking officers.