OGPU badge - too good to be true?

[deValcourt]

I found this one through a link here on the forum from "Blackbird." My problem with it is that it seems to be in perfect condition - no cracks in the enamel or other age-related aberrations ones expects to find on pieces supposedly this old.

Any thoughts?

Phillip

[EricFG]

I dunno, Philski. One would expect a lot of detail from a badge of that era (20s?) and this doesn't have it. Seems to ba a thin, stamped...thing. And that white "enamel"?
If real something like this should be about 4 figures, no?

[deValcourt]

Eric, the seller is asking just under $3000. If you go to the "Quick Links" and select "Today's Posts" you will see it in the Blackbird listings.

The white enamel used during the alleged time frame this was supposed to be made has almost always darkened slightly and has at least hairline cracks running through it. Whatever the maker of of this badge used looks like some sort of epoxy and it way too thick, in my opinion.

It would be a nice piece to attach to an old uniform, but not for more than $100.:rolleyes:

Phillip

[desantnik]

Fake.

[deValcourt]

Originally Posted by desantnik

Fake.

I'm sure it is a copy, but I understood from Marc some time ago that decent copies of early security service badges were available in the RF for about $100 - which is still a little high. The only way I'll be able to afford any of the originals is to hit the lottery (and find someone with a fantastic collection who is willing to sell:rolleyes:). My point is reasonably priced badges from early organizations like the (O)GPU are only likely to get into my collection as copies, but not when some insidious, greedy knuckleheads like this seller are around.

As I've said before, I don't have a problem with quality copies to use as "stand-ins" in a display or mounted on a uniform displayed in your house, but people have to be straight with each other and sell them at their actual value. Unfortunately, this appears to be the exception to the rule rather than the norm.:mad:

Phillip

[Lapa]

Phil,

The norm these days is that if you have something that could pass as the real thing, even if you know that it is not the real enchilada, you give it a try (or two, three... ). Sad, but true :mad:

Marc

[Разведка]

Before I commit, I'm hoping that the esteemed members of the forum might look at this one - 5th anniversary OGPU badge. Much appreciated! :D

[CtahhR]

This seller is famous for offering fakes. Nothing more needs to be said.

[Tommy]

Too true.

Very rare badge, E*** isnt the place to be getting one of these.

Tom

[CtahhR]

It would very much be a case of "buy it now" - regret it later.
As Tommy has implied these sort of items must only been obtained from the most reliable of known sources unless you wish to waste your money. There are far more fake than real of this Badge.