Cased Imperial 1st Class Iron Cross

Germany > German Empire > Awards & Medals >

A nice looking piece! The Iron Cross is a multi-piece, die struck construction that has been soldered together. The single piece core is constructed out of an Iron sheet metal base that has been black enamel painted. Look at the backgrounds of the core, see how it's all stippled? Love it I do not know the maker but I like these, unusual and unique. The frame and back plate are constructed out of a nickel silver base. The obverse features; a pattée style cross that has a centrally placed embossed “W” (cypher for King Wilhelm II), below a Kings crown and above “1914” 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 reverse features a wide soldered block hinge, soldered round wire catch and wire pin. Nice patina remains throughout. The paint is better than 95%. The case is made out of wood and pressed cardboard, with a simulated, brown leather covering. The top features a decorative gilt line framing the top. To the front is a brass spring loaded closure button. To the back is a steel staggered, internal bar hinge. The hinge and the closure button function. The interior is lined in Royal Blue flocking with underlying pad. You can clearly see an outline of the cross to the flocking, this has been there forever. The case shows some scuffs and marks throughout. A high quality private purchase example to add to your collection.