Cased 1st Class Iron Cross by L59

German WWII > Awards and Medals > Iron Cross Series > 1st Class Iron Cross

A beautiful private purchased Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse by Alois Rettenmaier! The 1st Class Iron Cross was awarded to those who had received the 2nd class iron cross and preformed 3-5 acts of bravery in the face of the enemy, or actions that were clearly above and beyond the call of duty. It is a multi-piece, die struck construction that has been soldered together. The single piece core is constructed out of an iron metal base that has been black enamel painted. The frame and back plate are constructed out of a nickel-silver base that has been silver washed. A final protectant lacquer was applied over the entire award. The obverse features; a pattée style cross that has a centrally placed embossed mobile swastika and "1939" to the lower arm, which is all on a black base and surrounded by a silvered ribbed/beaded row and a flat outlying border. The full back reverse features a soldered on hinge, soldered on c-shaped catch and coke bottle pin. All of the components remain in well working condition. The reverse is maker marked "L56" (Alois Rettenmaier, GmbH & Co. KG) and it also has a secondary mark as is commonly found on these piece by this maker. The award has beautiful patina with age. The paint remains 97%+ intact. It measures approximately 1 ¾ inches wide and tall. A wonderful piece! The 1st Class Iron cross comes housed in the appropriate case. The case is constructed out of a wood and pressed cardboard base that is covered in a simulated, grained black leather. The very top features a silvered 1st Class Iron Cross outline. To the front is a steel, spring loaded, round closure button. To the back is a steel staggered bar hinge. Both the hinge and catch continue to work well. The interior top lid is lined in white satin. The bottom interior of the case is made of a cardboard base that is covered in a off-white fiber felt material that is bordered and outlines the pin, hinge and catch assembly. The case measures approximately 2 5/8 inches tall and deep and ¾ of an inch thick. The case shows minor scuffs throughout and one rip to the side. Otherwise it is in good condition. A nice set!