Cased Brass Core 1st Class Iron Cross by R. Wächtler & Lange

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

A beautiful brass core Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse by Rudolf Wächtler & Lange of Mittweida! 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 a brass 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 block hinge, soldered on flat wire catch and coke bottle pin. All of the components remain in well working condition and are non-magnetic. The plating and paint remains 95%+ 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 constructed out of a cardboard base that is covered in an off-white fibrous 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 is in excellent condition. A beautiful set you can be proud of!