Stuart, here is a perfect example.
Note the two badges below, the first M1/63, is IMO a fake HJ-Shooter, note the (flame) heat/burn marks where the pin plate has been soldered on, and now when turned into negative, note the excessive wear on the reverse, or better phrased, very untypical wear marks, little bumps, nicks and scratches all over the reverse, yet the pin plate looks new and undamaged.
Now note the, IMO Authentic M1/77 HJ-Shooter, note around the pin plate NO heat/Burn marks, note the correct wear marks on the reverse, which are typical of used and "been there" badges, wear around the edges, nicks and scratches BUT NO WEAR in the actual middle of the badge. Or very little. This is what i would be hoping to see on a genuine item that has been worn, the wear coincides with the way in which it was worn, and is normal. To me, it is also clear that the Fake M1/63 has a Steel needle, which is never a good sign IMO.
So it rather a combination of a few aspects, and not using my "negative image" theory as Rule of thumb, but just as an additional aid.
Theories theories, it reminds me of the UV glow test, and thread burn test on Cloth items, which many swear blind by, and many say is complete poppy cock ! I guess it is up to the individual.
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