The proper definition of replica is "a copy made by the person who made the original", though it is now commonly used to refer to any copy. Replicas are often used for historical purposes, such as being placed in a museum. Sometimes the original never existed. For example, Difference Engine No. 2, designed by Charles Babbage in the 19th century, was reconstructed from original drawings studied by Allan Bromley in the 1980s and is now on display at the Science Museum in London, England.

However, replicas have often been used illegaly for forgery, counterfeits, fakes especially of money & coins, but also commercial merchandise such as designer label clothing, luxury bags & accessories, and last but not least: luxury watches. In arts or historic cars, replica is used for a non-original recreation, sometimes hiding its real identity.

See also

• Ship replica
• Replica shirt

External links

• Difference Engine No. 2 replica at the Science Museum, London
• Enigma replica an engineering project

Museology

Replica | Replika | 仿制品