How Do I Tell If a US Plate is Real or Fake?

[coinman123]

At a nearby antique shop I almost had a heart attack when I saw a U.S. belt plate for $15 in the corner of some booth full of random items. I made a discussion not to buy it until I could tell if it is real or not. What should I look for when determining if it is a real or fake buckle. I forgot to take photos sadly.

It looks like this (including the back), but this is just going off of memory of what I remember seeing. Brown patina. (NOT MY BUCKLE)
View attachment 1546020

 

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[villagenut]

For 15...... I would take a chance

 

[coinman123]

For 15...... I would take a chance

I regret not buying it on the spot. I think I will tomorrow so I don't have the chance of passing up a real one.

 

[ecmjamsit]

Yes, I think $15 is a steal.

 

[smokeythecat]

One way to tell. If a reproduction the lead in the back will be totally full. The real ones didn't have overbrimming lead. Also most times the lead on the back will have a whitish color. The hooks will be solid, not flimsy. There are quality reproductions out there.

 

[fyrffytr1]

Try looking at this site: Fakes, US oval buckles & boxplates, Federal plates 475 to 534

 

[Rookster]

You can always sell it for $20 If it isn't the real thing. I just hope I to get a another chance at one.

 

[Tpmetal]

For 15...... I would take a chance

ditto, even if a repo not a bad price. Hard to tell from picture if its good or not though

 

[coinman123]

ditto, even if a repo not a bad price. Hard to tell from picture if its good or not though

That's not mine, an online photo of a similar type for reference.

 

[coinman123]

I bought it! Some deep old scratches, and small dents. Do you think it is real or fake?

 

[Gare]

MY guess is fake. No oxidation on the lead backing