Over the years I have noticed that these faded markings appear mostly on grades that have top barrel stampings as opposed to top barrel engravings. This would mean that the lettering anomaly would most likely appear on Eagles and lower grades.
In years past I thought that the faded markings were due to careless polishing before a reblue which would, of course, indicate a non-original gun. My thinking resulted in passing on guns that may have been original.
A closer look at top barrel markings indicates to me that misaligned dies may account for many partially faded legends. In contrast, I cannot recall a partially faded engraved legend but I have observed 'softened' engravings indicative of a reblue.
It is important to sort out what is original and what is not because of the premium prices attached to the former.
There are other means of detecting originality as mentioned in the journal article. If you are reading this and not a member your are not only missing out on this subject but many others as well. Check the opening page of this site for membership information.
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