I think the 'scratch-off' would effect the price or value of the medal. I'd guess somewheres around 50%? Some might not even want it while some, especially if it's a rare variation might pay full price. For an OG it's a wartime award so the value may be a bit higher (than 50%).
"patina imparts character" - PJS
A wise man said: 'you should not pay a premium for what you want beyond your comfort level, and always ensure there is a mutually agreeable return policy.'
I agree with EricFG. Having an order or medal with the serial numbers altered to the point you can't read them greatly affects the value. In my opinion, I would approach the purchase of something like that from the view of owning it only as a curiosity or "story value" example. Finally, I would expect the purchase price to be a least 50% - 75% below an unaltered piece.
10-03-2009, 03:25 PM (This post was last modified: 10-03-2009, 06:47 PM by EricFG.)
Here is my OG2. One of the highlights of my collection.
It's got a nicely worn and stained ribbon and old, two-piece suspension.
If you notice on the reverse there is a wear pattern that starts below the first 'C' and curves toward the right, ending near the tip of the starpoint at 3 o'clock. When I fold the medal's reverse to the suspension's reverse that wear pattern corresponds directly to the round part of the pin that supplies the tension.
I'm thinking that this wear happened while the medal was transported, possibly in a soldiers pocket.
"patina imparts character" - PJS
A wise man said: 'you should not pay a premium for what you want beyond your comfort level, and always ensure there is a mutually agreeable return policy.'
10-03-2009, 03:30 PM (This post was last modified: 10-03-2009, 06:46 PM by EricFG.)
Also notice, on the reverse, the dings at the star-points. I've noticed these as well on Red Star orders and these tend to show good, honest wear. IMO they can be a good indicator of authenticity.
"patina imparts character" - PJS
A wise man said: 'you should not pay a premium for what you want beyond your comfort level, and always ensure there is a mutually agreeable return policy.'
Currently listed on the other well-known NYC-area dealer's site for his early January 2010 auction - sequentially numbered Glory 3s to a father and son for action in Prague in 1968 - or so it's claimed. Image of documents/reverse sides of Glories may be viewed at his site.
"2153 Set of 2 complete documented groups for father and son Landfel’d.
Group comes with:
• Order of Glory #758345 (father).
• Order of Glory #758346 (son).
• 2 Order’s Books for the above.
Note that Order’s Books’ serial numbers are consecutive, mirroring the serial number situation with Orders of Glory. Both were awarded for action in Prague in 1968. Moreover, Orders of Glory have consecutive serial numbers, much like the Order’s Books themselves! Most likely unique as such.
Condition: Excellent condition dark patina $ 1.000,-"
If you/he got it researched some of the paperwork there might tell of the soldier's fate?
Plus there are more reasons than being KIA to account for a medal in a field.
Interesting story, can we get more details at all?
"patina imparts character" - PJS
A wise man said: 'you should not pay a premium for what you want beyond your comfort level, and always ensure there is a mutually agreeable return policy.'
