Odd 3rd Bn border badge on ebay
 

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/384273863...53.m1438.l2649

I would like opinions on this. I think it's a fake with some brass strips added and some better than usual fretting.

The originals had a central motto that was often erased. Not a VB badge either but militia?

Alan, the smooth reverse and footing lugs scream fake to me. Regards

Yes a repro with same common features mentioned as all the others from its stable but with the addition of E-W brass strips as an added touch to deceive.

There is a badge I consider genuine sans honours, it is from a different die. Note the feint ghosting of ARRYO DOS MOLINOS in the circlet’s seeding where the original die has been hobbed.

https://www.britishbadgeforum.com/fo...1&d=1491335069

https://www.britishbadgeforum.com/fo...4&d=1491379628

Interestingly the brass strips are N-S on the genuine article.

I don't know if it's just me, but when I see a seller on eBay listing a fake item I'll look at his other offerings looking for those fakes that I know. If I see the original fake and I concerned about buying from him, but do understand we all make mistakes. But if I start seeing several or even a second one I will usually steer clear unless he has something I really want and that I am sure of. There are too many good and reputable dealers and eBay sellers to source from to both with fakers - some are forum members. I also put high trust in the forum members and am always happy to source through them.

Just my 2 cents,

Terry

Thank you Luke. I agree with you and have a similar badge complete with the very faint but nevertheless visible honours. I understand that this version has been authenticated by a knowlegeable, former museum curator. An example may exist in the museum. I was 'on the case' when Covid stopped play. Yes, NS copper retaining strip to the rear.

I have seen examples with both the full motto in place and also with it erased. I am not sure whether it is the die that has been erased or it was done by the unit because they thought the motto was incorrect.

I had a post 1902 one with the ‘Honi Soit….’ motto, that’s also the way they appear on the earlier crownless version.