Iron Cross 1'st Class 1914 with Case of Issue

The order of the Iron Cross was founded by King Friedrich Wilhelm III of Prussia, after the war of liberation from Napoleon in 1813. It was to be an award for gallantry conferred only in time of war. The Iron Cross was re-instituted at the commencement of the Franco-Prussian War in 1870, the First World War in 1914, and the Second World War in 1939. In each of the three latter cases, the specific re-institution date may be seen to the lower obverse arm.

This is the 1914 pattern, die struck, three piece, iron and alloy construction cross with a single piece iron core and a two piece silver alloy frame. Complete with original hinge, pin and catch assembly. The cross is also slightly vaulted for a better fit when worn on a tunic. The cross comes housed in a wood and pressed cardboard construction issue case with a simulated, black leather covering. The top of the case has an impressed, silvered outline of an Iron Cross to the center. The case is complete with functional press button. A Iron Cross ribbon is nicely folded in place to the top lid.

The cross is in very good condition with virtually all black paint still intact to the Iron Core. The case is in good condition and shows some chafe wear.

Hard to find in better condition!!