Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 2/6/2012

Question
QUESTION: Hi,
I have this medal, Austria 1836, Bronze 45mm, the year is complete MDCCCXXXVI. I see some of this in the net, with various price from 50 to $500, on ebay they have this on $499. Obverse Maria Augusta Bust. Reverse; crown with shield. I want to know the real value.

ANSWER: Hi Ramon,
This is a modern piece. I have one that was made into a bottle opener. They sell entire sets of cups and bowls that have this exact medal in them.
There is a genuine old verison of this medal from Prague. However, this is one of the typical modern copies. It has a minimal value.
Thanks again! =)

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi,
With all respect, how you know this is a reproduction? I'm just want to know for future options. I don't remember how much I paid for this piece, but not was too much. Thanks

Answer
Hi,
I can tell from the quality and material, especially since I have one of these. This one is made of a mix of base metals, sometimes refered to as melchior. An original medal like this would be bronze. Also, the quality is a very crude casting, which is typical of the modern reproductions. They are still being made today.
Thanks.