Is There A Way To Restore Worn Off Gold Plating On Officer’s Dress EGAs?

[AirMechanic]

I have several WWII USMC officers dress EGAs where the gold wash/plating on the raised continents or the anchors has been worn off (likely from being polished). Is there a way that the gold wash can restored, perhaps by a jeweler? Has anyone done this? If so, how much did it cost and how did it come out?

[Brig]

It would destroy the value of the piece, as most attempts at 'restoration' on insignia often do. Collectors value the patina, I personally wouldn't touch replated emblems. Maybe for a uniform restore, but I wouldn't pay what I would for all original emblems, even in a worn state

 

If you do want to do it, I would shop for a quality jeweler. Most "jewelers" these days do little more than resize and replace stones...the craftsmanship is rapidly becoming a lost art, much like silversmithing.

[Bluehawk]

It CAN be done, absolutely, but finding a plater or jeweler willing and able to do it, is another matter, There are 3-4 ways to accomplish the job.

 

Large urban areas are more likely to have such craftsmen than rural places., and it will take some searching. Whenever I have needed such services (e.g. fine engraving, delicate repairs etc.) over the decades, I always look for old timey Europeans and long-established jewelry stores.

Would it be possible to see a photo of the piece(s) as they are now?

[Bruce Linz]

I think any restoration, even by an accomplished jeweler, would involve some medal loss due to surface preparation. That would certainly change the look of any emblem. I would advise leaving it alone and finding another emblem in better condition. The final desicion rests with you. Good luck and please keep us posted. I too would like to see a picture or two of what you have.

 

Semper Fi,

Bruce Linz

[AirMechanic]

Here is a photo of one of the emblems that I have where you can see that the gold plating is missing from the continents and the anchor. It looks like someone polished it off. Anyhow, I think I will just leave it as is. Thanks for the advice though!

[Bluehawk]

Yes... I'd leave it too.

It doesn't look bad at all.