World War I and World War II medals are among the most collected military artifacts of the 20th century—yet they are also some of the most frequently reproduced, altered, and counterfeited. Because genuine medals were produced using specific alloys, die-struck manufacturing, period-correct ribbons, and distinctive engraving techniques, accurate authentication requires a structured, non-destructive workflow.
DJR Expert Guide Series, Vol. 519 provides a complete professional methodology for evaluating WWI and WWII medals safely. This guide explains how to analyze metal composition visually, distinguish die-struck originals from cast reproductions, authenticate ribbons and hardware, assess engraving styles, recognize enamel behavior, identify maker variations, and detect modern fakes and artificially aged reproductions.
Inside this guide, you’ll learn how experts:
Distinguish wartime originals from postwar replacements and modern replicas
Identify period-correct bronze, brass, silver, nickel, and zinc alloys
Evaluate die-struck relief, lettering sharpness, and authentic mint characteristics
Recognize cast-copy red flags including bubbles, soft detail, and mold seams
Authenticate WWI and WWII ribbons by fiber type, weave, and color behavior
Examine suspension rings, brooch hardware, and era-specific attachment styles
Evaluate naming and engraving styles across Allied nations
Identify artificial patina, chemical darkening, and other aging attempts
Analyze country-specific traits for U.S., U.K., German, Japanese, and other medals
Apply a complete non-destructive workflow from first inspection to final assessment
Whether evaluating a Purple Heart, Victory Medal, Iron Cross, British campaign medal group, or Japanese order, this guide gives collectors, dealers, and historians the clarity and structure needed to identify genuine wartime medals and avoid costly reproductions.
Digital Download — PDF • 8 Pages • Instant Access
World War I and World War II medals are among the most collected military artifacts of the 20th century—yet they are also some of the most frequently reproduced, altered, and counterfeited. Because genuine medals were produced using specific alloys, die-struck manufacturing, period-correct ribbons, and distinctive engraving techniques, accurate authentication requires a structured, non-destructive workflow.
DJR Expert Guide Series, Vol. 519 provides a complete professional methodology for evaluating WWI and WWII medals safely. This guide explains how to analyze metal composition visually, distinguish die-struck originals from cast reproductions, authenticate ribbons and hardware, assess engraving styles, recognize enamel behavior, identify maker variations, and detect modern fakes and artificially aged reproductions.
Inside this guide, you’ll learn how experts:
Distinguish wartime originals from postwar replacements and modern replicas
Identify period-correct bronze, brass, silver, nickel, and zinc alloys
Evaluate die-struck relief, lettering sharpness, and authentic mint characteristics
Recognize cast-copy red flags including bubbles, soft detail, and mold seams
Authenticate WWI and WWII ribbons by fiber type, weave, and color behavior
Examine suspension rings, brooch hardware, and era-specific attachment styles
Evaluate naming and engraving styles across Allied nations
Identify artificial patina, chemical darkening, and other aging attempts
Analyze country-specific traits for U.S., U.K., German, Japanese, and other medals
Apply a complete non-destructive workflow from first inspection to final assessment
Whether evaluating a Purple Heart, Victory Medal, Iron Cross, British campaign medal group, or Japanese order, this guide gives collectors, dealers, and historians the clarity and structure needed to identify genuine wartime medals and avoid costly reproductions.
Digital Download — PDF • 8 Pages • Instant Access
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