Bob:
There are several threads in this forum which discuss reproction War Eagles. You might want to look at those for some ideas.
In addition, you can get information about identifying repro machines by going to
http://www.ibuyoldslots.com/COCD/Repro_Tips.html
In addition, I will add my thoughts on this.
There are several styles of reproduction machines. Some take old mechanisms and put them in new cases with new castings. Others are 100% new.
1. If the seller mainly sells newer Bally/Williams/IGT machines and also advertises Golden Nuggets and War Eagle then be very suspicious. Most of these people are selling reproductions and claiming they are originals. Just go to E-Bay to see some examples.
2. If the machine pays on a single cherry then it is probably a fake.
3. If the machine has a hightop style handle then it is probably a fake.
4. If the machines has coins glued in the escalator area then it is probably a fake. These are the REALLY BAD reproductions, most of the reproductions being made today have working escalators.
5. If the mechanism does not have the horizontal check detector bar then the machine is probably a fake.
6. If the machine is a quarter machine and looks brand new then it is probably a fake. The vast majority of original War Eagles out there are nickle machines. Almost all the phonys are quarter machines. Frankly, if I was to own one and going to restore it I would rather have a nickle machine.
7. If the machine has silver or gold backed reel strips then it is probably a fake.
8. If the seller is saying it is "remanufactured" then it is probably a fake.
I am sure there are some things that I missed. Hopefully, the other collectors and legit dealers will chime in and provide their input.