Der
Rittmeister Militaria, LLC. Imperial German Merchandise: Page 9: 1813, 1870, 1914, and Iron
Crosses and Related Materials.
Updated on 14 May 2012.
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1914 1st Class in the Original Presentation Case
09-897 NON VAULTED 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - HALLMARKED .925 SILVER - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE. Today we are offering a top-quality 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The cross is flat (non vaulted) and is similar in style to presentation Iron Crosses. The obverse’s paint is in excellent condition. The frame and, in particular the beading, (which is as fine as I have seen) has a first-rate patina. As we examine the reverse, we see the same attention to detail. The catch is a bit larger than normal and has "superior-quality" screaming from it. To the catch’s right is where we really see the Iron Cross’s excitement and superiority revealed. It is hallmarked .925 silver. This is extremely high for an Iron Cross, as most that have silver hallmarks of .800. [I have seen a few Iron Crosses hallmarked .950, but that level is quite unusual]. Its presentation case is also quite striking. It is black leatherette and measures 1" x 2 ½" x 2 ½." Embossed on the outer lid is a silver Iron Cross that duplicates the Iron Cross housed within, complete to its 1914 date. Inside the case, we see a white silk upper lid. The cross is housed in the lower half, which has a brown velvet cover. The case shows a bit of honest age, but is visually and structurally sound. This is an amazing set and one of the finest Iron Crosses we have offered you. $950.00
09-831 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE. This is a top quality example of the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse is quite handsome. It shows all the touches of a privately-purchased Iron Cross. The beadwork is even and well defined. The detailing of the iron center is exquisite. The paint shows modest age and rates at 98%. On the reverse is a superb swollen pin and a large catch for it. The presentation case is especially pleasing. It measures 2 1/2" x 2 1/2" x 3/4." The outer lid displays a silver embossed 1914 Iron Cross. Inside the case, the upper lid is white silk. The case’s lower half is covered in black velvet. It is cut to fit the Iron Cross. It is a great Iron Cross set for any collection. $895.00
09-835 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - LOW VAULTED - .930 SILVER HALLMARKED - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE. This is an ultra high-quality 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is a very low vaulted example. Its silver frame has marvelous beading with a lovely patina. The paint rates at nearly 100%. The reverse sports a fine swollen pin, which shows signs of having been pressed into a tunic where it was worn. The pin is "wavy," probably from piercing a uniform rather than using sewn-in loops. Under the pin is hallmarking for .930 silver. This is unusual, but that IS the hallmarking. The catch at the bottom that holds the pin is more delicately designed. This beautiful Iron Cross is housed in an early-war presentation case. Substantial wear shows on the case’s outer lid. That said, a decal for the 1914 Iron Cross was affixed, which has a small bit missing on its right arm, but is mostly intact. Inside the case we see the standard silk upper half, and a velvet lower half fitted to accommodate the Iron Cross’s pin. The Iron Cross fits into the case like a hand into a glove. $895.00
09-759 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS HALLMARKED
WAGNER & SOHN IN THE ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
09-891 1914 IRON CROSS 1st
CLASS - HIGH VAULTED - .800 SILVER - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
09-790 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - KO -
ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
This is a non
vaulted (flat) 1914 Iron Cross. The obverse’s paint is quite attractive. It
rates at 98%. Under the catch that secures the pin, it is hallmarked "KO" on the reverse. The firm was located in Stuttgart. It provided the bulk of
the issued 1st Class Iron Crosses awarded by the government. [As we
have shared with you on many occasions, Iron Crosses that are vaulted,
screwbacked, hallmarked for silver content (.800 through .950),
or manufacturer hallmarked for firms other than "KO," usually have been
privately-purchased]. This example’s overall patina is quite striking. The
Iron Cross is housed in a black leatherette presentation case that measures 2
1/2"
x 2 1/2" x 1." The outline of an Iron Cross is embossed in silver on its outer
lid. Inside is a well-used white silk upper liner. The case’s bottom is lined
in faded red velvet. If you remove the Iron Cross from its resting place, you
will see a darkened outline of the Iron Cross where it has laid for decades.
It is a very appealing presentation of an issued Iron Cross 1st Class,
complete with its presentation case.
This is a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is a non vaulted (flat) design. The obverse’s paint is in very fine condition. A fine patina distinguishes the Iron Cross. The reverse features a swollen pin. To the right of the catch is "WS." This stands for Wagner & Sohn, one of Kaiser Wilhelm II’s leading court jewelers. The Iron Cross’s condition is first-rate, overall. It is housed in a highly-desirable, black, leatherette case. Embossed on the outer lid is a 1914 Iron Cross. Inside, the case sports a white-silk upper liner. The case’s lower half, which is fitted to hold the Iron Cross, is lined in black velvet. The case is in as good condition as the Iron Cross itself. $750.00
09-750 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - HALLMARKED WAGNER & SOHN - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
09-903 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - K. A. G. HALLMARK - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE. This is a non vaulted (flat) 1914 Iron Cross. Such flat-style crosses were awarded initially to recipients. While many men continued to wear their presentation Iron Crosses, others opted to buy one or more other Iron Crosses to fit their personal tastes. These ranged from screwbacks to several vaulted styles, crosses with higher silver contents (.800 or more) or fancier presentation cases . . . the possibilities were endless. Our cross today, in addition to its flat design, is a very high-quality, manufacturer-hallmarked example. The paint on the obverse is excellent, rating 100%. The frame displays a bright patina. As we examine the reverse, we are immediately struck by its swollen pin. The pin bears the hallmark for the manufacturer K.A.G. Its reverse flaunts a highly mirrored finish. No hallmark for silver content is present. The presentation case has a silver Iron Cross outlined on its lid. Inside the case, we see a standard, white, silk liner on the case’s upper half. Its lower half is lined in a dark-blue velvet that is fitted to house the Iron Cross. The case is structurally sound and houses the cross beautifully. $695.00
This is a lovely 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class pinback. It is ever so slightly vaulted. Unless you look closely, you may miss the fact that it IS a vaulted example. The obverse’s paint is excellent. It rates at 100%. The frame’s patina is noteworthy. On the reverse has further indications of a fine patina. The pin is hallmarked for .800 silver. The presentation case is black leatherette, with an Iron Cross’s silver outline embossed on its lid. Inside the case is a standard silk liner (white), and a velvet-lined (black) lower half fitted to hold the Iron Cross. It is a superior presentation of an ultra high quality Iron Cross and its matching case, in fine condition. $695.00
09-723 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - SLIGHTLY VAULTED - .800 SILVER - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
09-793 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
09-753 1914 IRON CROSS 1st
CLASS - HALLMARKED KO - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
This is an originally issued 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class in its
original presentation case. The Iron Cross has very good paint on its obverse
and a fine patina. The Iron Cross’s reverse displays the "KO"
hallmarking under the catch. The presentation case is a black leatherette. The
outline of a 1914 Iron Cross is embossed in silver on its outer lid. Inside,
the case we see a white silk upper half in fine condition. The lower half is
fitted to accommodate the Iron Cross. This bottom half is lined in a dark-blue
velvet. The case’s exterior shows the normal scuffing we expect to see.
$650.00
This is an attractive, low vaulted 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is one of the lowest vaulted Iron Crosses that I have seen. Until you look at it closely, you might almost think it is non vaulted. The obverse’s paint is in good condition. It rates at about 98%. On the reverse has a swollen pin. The cross is non magnetic, but 100% correct. The presentation case is quite different. Its entire exterior is a deep violet-blue velvet. Inside the case, a 1914 Iron Cross is embossed in black on the upper lid. The fitted bottom of the case is black. The case and cross make most unusual pair, both are top quality. $650.00
09-748 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS NON MAGNETIC - SPECIAL BLUE PRESENTATION CASE.
09-710 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS
LOW VAULTED IN THE ORIGINAL
PRESENTATION CASE.
Today we are offering a 1914 Iron Cross 1st
Class in the presentation case. The Iron Cross is a privately-purchased
example that is low vaulted. The paint on the obverse rates at about 98%. The
cross’s center is magnetic. The frame sports a very fine patina. The cross has
a fine swollen pin. It is not hallmarked for manufacturer or silver content.
The leatherette case is quite solid, structurally. The outside front features
a decal with an Iron Cross. The decal’s bottom is obscured where the "1914" would appear. Inside the case is the typical white silk upper liner. The
fitted case’s bottom half is lined in purple velvet. Overall, they make a very
handsome pair.
09-503 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS
- NON VAULTED AND .800 SILVER HALLMARKED IN THE ORIGINAL
PRESENTATION CASE.
09-655
1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS HIGH VAULTED MODEL IN THE ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
This is a high-vaulted 1914 Iron Cross. The paint on the obverse rates at about 95%. On the reverse we see something that I find particularly interesting. Under the catch is hallmarking for "KO." This firm, located in Stuttgart, was the primary producer of 1914 1st Class Iron Crosses. These were of the non vaulted (flat) design, however. I cannot remember seeing a vaulted KO Iron Cross 1st Class. It is very well made, and certainly makes for an interesting variation. It is housed in a black leatherette presentation case. Embossed in silver on the outer lid is an Iron Cross’s outline. Inside the case is a fairly standard white silk upper liner and a black velvet lower half, which is fitted to house the cross. $550.00
09-796 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
09-615 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS VAULTED IN THE ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE. This is a vaulted 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The paint on the obverse rates at about 80%. No hallmarking for the manufacturer or silver content shows on the reverse. If you like your EK’s a bit more "salty," this is a good example for you. It comes in an original presentation case. The Iron Cross’s outline is embossed in silver on its outer lid. Inside are the standard, white, silk, upper lid and the dark-purple, velvet-lined lower half. $525.00
This 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class displays fine paint on its obverse, which rates at 98%. The frame is in fine condition and has an excellent patina. The obverse features a top-quality pin. "KO" appears below the catch. This was the firm that produced most of WW I’s issued Iron Crosses. The Iron Cross is housed in an originally-issued presentation case. The case measures 2 1/2" x 2 1/2" x 1/2." The outline of an Iron Cross is embossed on its outer lid. The case’s interior has a white silk upper lid. The bottom lid is covered with purple velvet. It houses the Iron Cross quite well, and provides a cutout in which the pin can nestle. It makes a fine presentation piece for display. $495.00
09-875 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - "KO" - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
Today we offer a flat, issued-type, 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class from the Stuttgart firm, "KO." This is a flat, non vaulted cross rather than a privately-purchased, vaulted cross. The obverse’s paint rates at about 75%. It has substantial paint loss and even some light surface rust. On the reverse, we see the "KO" hallmark under the catch. A 1914 Iron Cross stickpin is also included. The obverse’s surface material is enamel, indicating a higher-quality stickpin. The pair is housed in a leatherette presentation case. The case measures 3" x 2 3/4." A silver outline of an Iron Cross appears on the outer lid. This little set is a real value, especially if you like your Iron Crosses a little "salty." $425.00
09-833 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS WITH STICKPIN - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
1914 1st Class Prinzengroße
09-640 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS PINBACK - PRINZENGROßE. This is a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class Prinzengroße. It is a flat (non vaulted) example. The paint on the obverse rates at about 60%, due to paint loss on two of the cross’s arms. The reverse sports a horizontal pin, rather than the more commonly-seen vertical pin. It is another unusual variant. $850.00
1914 1st Class Screwbacks
09-786 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - THREE-PIECE
SCREWBACK - .800 SILVER. This is a
low-vaulted 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class, in fine condition. It is a
privately-purchased model. Its paint rates at nearly 100%. The frame’s detail
and beading are quite striking. The frame displays a marvelous patina. The
reverse features a threaded brass screw that secures the other two pieces
together. It has a large backing plate, made from a base metal, which measures
1 1/2" in diameter. Iron Crosses with large backing plates are sometimes
referred to as Küraßiers’ Iron Crosses, because that type of backing
plate was applied to the küraß’s inside. Under the backing plate, the
Iron Cross’s reverse is hallmarked for .800 silver. This would make a
great addition to an Iron Cross display, or any collection.
$675.00
09-682 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS ENGRAVED -
TWO-PIECE SCREWBACK. This is a most interesting 1914 Iron Cross 1st
Class. It is an engraved, two-piece, screwbacked example. The cross is low
vaulted. The obverse’s paint rates at about 98%. Its large, circular,
backing plate measures 1 3/4" in diameter. The backing plate is engraved
"field-style" (not by a professional jeweler, but by a soldier in the field)
with the name "Gefried Lutz." Four holes are drilled in the backing plate.
Two of the four were used to attach the Iron Cross’s twin screws to the
plate. Only one of the two nuts for securing the back plate is present.
Nevertheless, the plate is firmly attached to the Iron Cross. Aside
from the engraving on the backing plate, no additional markings appear on
the plate or Iron Cross. This is a very well made example, in very fine
condition. $550.00
09-798 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - LOW VAULTED -
TWO PIECE SCREWBACK. This is a two piece, low
vaulted, 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class screwback. The obverse’s paint is excellent. It rates at about 98%. The cross’s frame is
also in fine condition. No hallmarking of any sort appears on the reverse. The
backing plate screws onto a post on the reverse. At the 12 o’clock position, a
small post is built into the cross’s back that helps steady it on a tunic.
This is truly a custom Iron Cross. It is certainly officer’s quality.
$550.00
09-681 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - THREE-PIECE
SCREWBACK. This is a 1914 Iron Cross 1st
Class three-piece screwback. The Iron Cross
is a very high vaulted example. The obverse reveals wear to the cross’s high
points (crown, "W," and 1914). Its paint rates at about 90%,
and has an interesting, "pebbly" finish. The reverse presents a backing
plate cut in the shape of the Iron Cross. The locking nut is small with,
handles on it. The Iron Cross is not hallmarked for silver content, or the
manufacturer. $525.00
09-711 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - THREE-PIECE
SCREWBACK. This is a most interesting 1914
three-piece screwback Iron Cross 1st Class. Its unusual aspect is
that the cross is a flat (non vaulted) example similar to the issued-style
pinback Iron Crosses. The great bulk of screwbacked Iron Crosses is vaulted to
some degree. The obverse’s paint rates at about 85%. The backing plate on the
reverse measures 1 1/2" in diameter. A locking nut secures the plate to the Iron
Cross. No hallmarking appears for manufacturer or silver content. This is a
value-priced, screwback Iron Cross.
$495.00
09-842 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - VAULTED - THREE-PIECE
SCREWBACK. This is a very handsome three-piece
screwback 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is vaulted (always the
mark of a custom-made Iron Cross). Its paint rates at about 97%. The Iron
Cross’s core is NOT magnetic. This lead me to believe it might have been
designed for naval use (rust was a problem with conventional, iron-cored
Iron Crosses). The reverse features a domed backing plate that measures 1
1/2"
in diameter. The central locking nut is well designed. It sports a handle
for tightening and loosening. It is an intriguing Iron Cross.
$495.00
09-697 1914 IRON
CROSS 1st CLASS THREE PIECE SCREWBACK. This is a 1914 Iron
Cross 1st Class. It is very slightly vaulted. The obverse’s paint
rates at about 85%. The reverse reveals a backing plate cut in the shape of
another Iron Cross, instead of more the commonly-seen circular one. The
locking nut sports a small handle. This is yet another mark of the Iron
Cross’s excellence. No hallmarking for manufacturer or silver content
appears. $495.00
09-801 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS VAULTED THREE-PIECE SCREWBACK.
This is a vaulted, three-piece, 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The
paint is clean and rates at about 97%. The
cross’s frame displays an excellent patina. The cross’s reverse features two
small, domed nuts. Their posts were inserted through reinforced holes cut
into the tunic. Mounting the Iron Cross in this manner stabilized the
decoration. No silver or manufacturer’s hallmarking appears on the reverse.
$495.00
09-692
1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - TWO-PIECE SCREWBACK. This is a
slightly-vaulted two-piece Screwback 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class.
The paint on the obverse is very pleasing. It rates at about 98%. The
reverse features a small square. It is some sort of hallmarking with which I
am not familiar. I have seen this same mark on a variety of other
decorations (even flight badges), but do not know which firm it represents.
The backing disc displays two small pegs that settled onto the tunic to help
stabilize the cross while it was being worn. It is officer’s-level Iron
Cross, in fine condition.
$495.00
09-751 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS TWO-PIECE SCREWBACK. This is a two-piece screwback Iron Cross 1st Class. Most screwback Iron Crosses are vaulted to some extent. This particular example is non vaulted (flat), which makes it unusual. The obverse’s paint is quite pleasing. If you look closely to the left of the "W," you will see a very small stress fracture. The reverse boasts a threaded backing plate, so no locking nut is needed. The reverse of the backing plate is hallmarked W.B. It is value-priced for a screwback Iron Cross. $395.00
09-816 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - THREE-PIECE SCREWBACK. This is a late-war, three-piece screwback 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The cross is ever-so-slightly vaulted. The obverse’s paint rates at 98%. The reverse displays a circular backing plate measuring 1” in diameter. The third piece is its central locking nut. $395.00
09-325 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS THREE PIECE SCREWBACK. This is a rather interesting variation of the three-piece screwback of the Iron Cross 1st Class. The cross is low-vaulted. The paint on the obverse, while virtually complete (with the exception of the high point of the "W" in the center), has an unusual toning. Often, in Iron Crosses from 1813 and 1870, we will see a crinkling effect on the paint due to the age. This Iron Cross has the same effect. We do not often see this on 1914 Iron Crosses. In another 20 to 30 years this may be more common, but right now we just do not see it. This makes for an unusual "look." If you want an Iron Cross that is a little salty, this one will be fine for you. The Iron Cross has a great patina on the obverse and reverse. It is not hallmarked for manufacturer or silver content. This is a very affordable screwback Iron Cross. $375.00 .
09-866 MINIATURE THREE-PIECE SCREWBACK 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS. This is a handsome three-piece screwback 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class miniature. The cross is a HIGHLY vaulted piece. It is contained within a dish that sets off its high vault effect even more. The measurements for the Iron Cross portion are 5/8" x 5/8". The backing plate measures 11/16" in diameter. The locking nut measures 5/16" in diameter. This is a very delicate but superbly made piece. It is in top condition. $295.00
This exciting 1914 Iron Cross (EK) has it all. To begin, it is a very high-quality, privately-purchased 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is a very low-vault
09-913 PILOT’S ENGRAVED 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - JASTA 35b - BAVARIA.
ed example, a privately-purchased piece
featuring both a manufacturer’s AND an .800 silver hallmark. If that were
not enough, how about the fact that it was engraved to a pilot who served in Jasta 35b? It is a very high-quality Iron Cross 1st Class.
The paint on the obverse rates at about 90%. The paint is complete, but has
bubbling on its arms, a frequent occurrence with much older crosses. Of
course, it IS approaching one-hundred-years-old, but we see it far more
often on 1813 and 1870 EK’s. The reverse features the aforementioned
manufacturer’s hallmark and silver content on the pin. It is a substantial
pin that imparts the cross’s high-quality (for its day). Under the pin a
single word, "Rath," is elegantly engraved. Research reveals that the
original owner was Rudolf Rath. Rath was born at Eberfeld in 1897, and
killed in action in 1917 at Altkirch, aged twenty. As a member of Jasta
35b, he flew an Albatros D. III, serial number 2120/16.
Rath was a vizefeldwebel. Prior to his assignment in Jasta 35b,
he flew in FEA 6. He had one confirmed victory and was killed in
action about six weeks after he joined Jasta 35b. His victory was
over a Sopwith 1 ½-strutter from a Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS)
squadron. Along with the marvelous Iron Cross, we have a xerox copy of
information on Rath. Also, we have a xerox copy of his cross at his burial
place. I believe the young man was killed on his birthday, having just
turned twenty.
$1,295.00
This is a high-quality 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is a privately-purchased, vaulted example that has been jeweler-engraved. The obverse’s paint shows wear on all four arms. I still rate the paint at 90% as the wear I mentioned is more of a patchy surface than chips or paint damage. It is just a toning to the paint, which is common in a nearly one-hundred-year-old Iron Cross. The frame’s patina screams of silver. The beading is fine and even. As we turn to the reverse, we see a fine, swollen pin. On the back in the center is a .800 silver hallmark. Engraved over that we see:
09-892 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - ENGRAVED - VAULTED - .800 SILVER HALLMARK.
"9.10.17.
In Treue
Ernst Sauer"
I must share one fault of the Iron Cross. The catch that secures the pin is partially missing and will not secure it. In spite of the fault, this ultra high quality Iron Cross remains highly desirable. $795.00
Today we offer a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class that has been field-engraved. The cross is of the flat (non vaulted) variety. The paint on the obverse rates at about 95%. The engraving on the reverse reads:
09-595 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - FIELD-ENGRAVED.
"Hering Lt. d. R.
R. I. R. 234
51 R"
This means he was a Leutnant der Reserve in Armee Reserve-Infantrie-Regiment Nr 234, 51st Division. [We’re not positive of that final one, if someone out there knows better, we will correct it]. This is a fine example of a field engraved (most likely with a knife or bayonet) Iron Cross at a good price. $475.00
1914 1st Class Pinbacks
This is a very low-vaulted 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse’s paint is quite pleasing. It rates at about 98%. The obverse displays a fairly thin pin. It also boasts an interesting backing plate (for lack of a better term), which has been applied to the reverse as an additional layer. It is secured by a small rivet. I believe the pin and clasp were broken off at some point and someone fixed it by attaching this backing plate, which has a pin and clasp attached to it. It certainly is a most unusual example of a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class! $550.00
09-820 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - LOW-VAULTED.
09-698 1914 IRON
CROSS 1st CLASS LOW VAULTED AND SILVER HALLMARKED. This is a very fine example of a low vaulted
1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse’s paint is excellent. It
rates at 98%. The reverse features a fine swollen pin. Under the pin is what
appears to be ".930." This is very unusual. We previously have seen .925, .938 and .950 silver hallmarking, but we have not seen
.930. My personal opinion is that it is in fact .938. I
think the number eight stamping die broke, which turned the eight into a
zero. In any case, it is a superb Iron Cross.
$475.00
$450.00
09-852 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - VAULTED - .950 SILVER HALLMARK. This is a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse’s paint is not quite what we prefer. It rates at about 85%. The cross is vaulted, a sure sign that it comes from a custom house. The frame’s patina is very pleasing and its beading is really first-rate. The reverse reveals a fine swollen pin. The Iron Cross is hallmarked for .950 silver under the pin. We also see an old repair to the catch where it has been reattached to the Iron Cross’s reverse. Even with these two faults, the Iron Cross remains a good value when taking into consideration the low price.
This is an unusual variant of the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. I have not encountered its type before. It is a flat (non vaulted) example, similar to the type awarded by the government. The obverse’s paint rates at about 90%. It has a standard iron (magnetic) center. The reverse is where we find its "unusual" part. The pin is unlike any I have seen on an Iron Cross in the past. It is almost like a safety pin. I have seen this type of pin on Gallipoli Stars manufactured by "B B & C Co." Since this pin is less sturdy than a conventional pin, it most certainly was used on a tunic with sewn-in loops. It might not have been strong enough to pierce a wool tunic. It is a most interesting variant. $450.00
09-708 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS.
09-680 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS
HIGH VAULTED .800 SILVER HALLMARKED.
This is a slightly vaulted 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The paint rates at about 95%. The reverse features a thin, flat pin. The reverse’s center is .800 silver hallmarked. $425.00
09-684 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS.
This is a high-quality privately-purchased 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is very highly vaulted. The paint rates at about 90%. On the reverse is a straight pin. In the center of the back is a .800 silver hallmark. No manufacturer’s hallmark is evident. $425.00
09-893 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - HIGH-VAULT - .800 SILVER HALLMARK.
09-716 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS. This is a non vaulted (flat) 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse’s paint rates about 98%. A swollen pin appears on the reverse. The Iron Cross is hallmarked .835 silver under the pin. $395.00
09-895 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - VAULTED - .950 SILVER HALLMARK. This is an ultra-high-quality 1914 Iron Cross. It is vaulted and displays a marvelous patina on the frame. It, however, does have a problem. It has suffered significant paint-loss on all four arms. I rate the paint at about 50%. On the reverse is a fine swollen pin. Underneath it is a .950 silver hallmark. .950 silver is the highest content that you will ever find in an Iron Cross. It just does not get any better. Were the Iron Cross in better condition, it would fetch HUNDREDS of dollars more. $395.00
09-678 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS. This is
a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is of the low vaulted design. The
obverse’s paint is quite charming and rates at 98%. Its reverse boasts a
mirrored finish and a flat, swollen pin. No manufacturer’s or silver
hallmarking is present. This is a fine 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class
for any collection.
$395.00
09-385 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS VAULTED AND .800 SILVER HALLMARKED. This is a remarkable variation of the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is vaulted with some minor paint loss on the high points of the EK. This is common on a high vaulted EK where the high points extend further from the EK. The pin on the reverse is worthy of mention as it is pushed in. We often see this on Iron Crosses that have been worn extensively. The EK is hallmarked for .800 silver. What really caught my attention on this example is that the hallmarking is HUGE. So often we need to squint or use a magnifying glass to read the print. I would say that the .800 is a good 1/4" tall! $395.00 .
.
09-672 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS VAULTED AND .800 SILVER HALLMARKED. This is a vaulted 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse’s paint is quite pleasing and rates at about 95%. On the reverse we see that the pin is hallmarked for .800 silver. It is a fine example of a top quality Iron Cross. $395.00
09-800 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - KO
HALLMARK - SLIGHTLY VAULTED. This is a very low
vaulted 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse’s paint rates about
95%. A high, mirrored finish appears on the reverse. The cross is hallmarked "KO" below the catch. It is a very clean and attractive Iron Cross.
$375.00
$375.00
09-699 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS HIGH VAULTED. This is a fine 1914 high-vaulted example of the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse’s paint is quite pleasing. It rates at 95%. The reverse features a square in its center as a hallmark. It is a very attractive example of the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class, for any collection.
09-616 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS NON VAULTED AND HALLMARKED "CD" AND .800 SILVER HALLMARKED. This is a flat (non vaulted) example of the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The paint on the obverse rates at about 90%. It is hallmarked CD (for the manufacturer) and .800 (for the silver content) in the Iron Cross’s center on the reverse. This Iron Cross rates about average in condition. It definitely saw some action! It is bargain-priced for a silver-content Iron Cross. $350.00
09-883 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - VAULTED. This is a privately-purchased 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is a medium-vault variety. It displays excellent paint on the obverse, which rates 100%. The frame has a fine patina. The beading is even and handsome. The reverse reveals a flat pin. No manufacturer’s or silver content hallmarks are evident. Overall, it is a very handsome Iron Cross. $325.00
09-908 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - VAULTED. This is a vaulted example of the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. I really like its looks. The vaulting indicates it is a privately-purchased example. I especially like the reverse. Its obverse has good solid paint that I rate at about 98%. It has a fine patina and probably has never been polished. The reverse reveals no sign of silver or manufacturer’s hallmarks. What we do see is a "wavy" pin. Clearly the cross has pierced a tunic a time or two, which caused it to bend. It proves this Iron Cross has spent time in the field. $325.00
09-879 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - VAULTED. This is a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is very slightly vaulted, custom example that was privately purchased rather than issued at the time of the award. The paint rates at about 95%. The reverse sports a fine swollen pin. It has no hallmarks for either silver content or manufacturer. $325.00
09-725 1914 IRON CROSS 1ST CLASS. This is a pinback 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class in good condition. The obverse’s paint is excellent. The frame has a fine patina. No hallmarking shows for silver content or manufacturer. This example certainly has the look of a silver piece, however, even though not silver-hallmarked. $295.00
09-593 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS VAULTED. This example of a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class is vaulted. The paint on the obverse rates at about 90%. The frame shows a significant patina, as does the back of the cross. On the reverse we see a flat pin, which is pressed-in from constant wear on a tunic. It has no manufacturer’s or silver hallmarking. $295.00
This is a non vaulted (flat) 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The cross’s obverse is quite pleasing. The paint rates at about 98%. The frame’s patina is very handsome. The pin on the reverse is flat. It displays no manufacturer’s or silver hallmarking. $295.00
09-774 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS.
09-886 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - NON VAULTED. This is a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is a flat (not vaulted) design similar to EK’s that were issued. The paint is complete, although two areas on the three o’clock and nine o’clock arms show a change in the paint due to age. The Iron Cross’s reverse has a mirrored finish, but no sign of silver or manufacturer’s hallmarks. $295.00
09-717 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS. This is a non vaulted (flat) 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse’s paint rates at about 95%. The Iron Cross has a sturdy swollen pin on the reverse. It is not hallmarked for manufacturer or silver content. It is of a very high quality. $295.00
09-459 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS LOW VAULTED. This is a low-vaulted 1914 Iron Cross. The paint on the obverse shows wear and rates at about 75%. No hallmarking or silver content appears on the reverse. If you are looking for an Iron Cross that has character and is on the salty side, this is a fine example for you. $275.00 . . .
This is a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. Its style is flat (non-vaulted), which was used for basic, issued EK’s. The cross, however, does NOT come from the KO firm who produced most issued EK’s. This example was privately-purchased. The obverse’s paint is nearly perfect. The frame displays a fine patina, and the beading surrounding the iron center is exceptional. On the reverse is a swollen pin. The attached brass catch and base are replacements for the original attachments, which evidently were broken. A manufacturer’s hallmark, "WS," appears to the catch’s right. This stands for "Wagner & Sohn." We can tell it is a custom-made piece from its construction and design, which makes it a good candidate for any collection. $275.00
09-911 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS.
This is a vaulted 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse’s paint, although complete, is "spidery" looking. The cross’s reverse displays a swollen pin. No hallmarking appears, either for a manufacturer, or for silver content. From the look of the Iron Cross, I would say it is a late-war example. $275.00
09-802 VAULTED 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS.
09-397 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS LOW VAULTED. This 1914 Iron Cross is of the low vaulted variety. The paint on the obverse of the cross would rate at about 90%. The frame of the cross is quite good. It has a pleasing patina and high quality beading all around. The reverse of the cross is also quite handsome and features a swollen pin. It has no hallmarking for silver content or manufacturer. This is a fine cross for a uniform or for a collection. $275.00 . .
09-872
1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - LOW VAULTED.
09-700 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS LOW VAULTED. This is a low-vaulted example of the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse’s paint rates at 90%, with wear on the cross’s high points. The center of the cross is not magnetic $250.00
09-761 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS.
09-563
1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS VAULTED.
This is a privately-purchased 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is
very slightly vaulted. The paint on the obverse rates at about 85%. The
reverse sports a high-quality, swollen pin. It is non magnetic. The frame is
a bit lopsided from some sort of hit. If you like them a bit salty, this one
qualifies in that respect.
$235.00
This is a 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is a flat (non vaulted) example. The paint rates at about 95%. The cross is hallmarked for .800 silver at the very bottom of its reverse. The cross does not have a pin. The top’s pin-assembly remains, but the catch is no longer present. This is a pity since the Iron Cross is quite handsome. Its pricing accommodates these flaws. $175.00
09-841 1914 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS - HALLMARKED .800 SILVER - NO CATCH.
1914 2nd Class Prinzengroße
Currently None Are Available
1914 Grand Cross of the Iron Cross
09-902 XRP 1914 GRAND CROSS OF THE IRON CROSS - MUSEUM COPY. This is a consignment item. The Grand Cross of the Iron Cross was first awarded in 1813 as a means to honor Prussia’s top military commanders. It was re-instituted in 1870, along with the 1st and 2nd Class Iron Crosses. It was not until 1917 that it was again re-instituted. During WW I, it was awarded to a total of FIVE men. They were Kaiser Wilhelm II, General der Infanterie Erich Ludendorff, Generalfeldmarschall Paul von Hindenburg, Generalfeldmarschall Prinz Leopold of Bavaria, and Generalfeldmarschall August von Mackensen. To the best of my knowledge, all of them are in museums. Back when they were being awarded, many patriotic Germans were very interested in them, even so late in the war. A limited number of "Museum Copies" were produced during that time. They were high-quality items, most of which were produced by Berlin’s Wagner & Söhne. This is one of those copies. The cross measures 2 ½" x 2 ½." The paint on both sides is 100%. A small ring at the EK’s top has a "paper clip" style hanger attached to it, similar to those used on PLM’s. The cross’s frame reflects a marvelous patina. On the reverse at the frame’s top is a .800 silver hallmark. The Grand Cross was worn at the neck. A short length of ribbon, measuring 7," is attached. It is a fine presentation. $2,995.00
1914 2nd Class in Presentation Cases, Frames, Etc.
09-912 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS WITH MOTHER-OF-PEARL IRON CROSS-SHAPED BACKGROUND. This is a very interesting way to display a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class. A mother-of-pearl shell section, measuring 3 ½" x 3 ½," has been cut into the shape of an Iron Cross. It serves as a background or frame for an actual 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class that has had its ribbon removed. The Iron Cross’ obverse has excellent paint, which rates 100% as does its reverse. It has a high quality frame, with a superb patina. A hallmark appears on the jump ring, and appears to be a "Z." At the top of the mother-of-pearl frame is a hook that has been added to hold the EK in place. The frame’s back has an added device that serves as a hook to hang the piece on a wall. Some very slight chipping touches three of the cross’s eight arm points. This is a wonderful piece that combines German patriotism with an actual EK. $495.00
This is a most interesting presentation grouping including the 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class, the Military Service Cross with Swords 3rd Class, and the Hindenburg Cross for Combatants. This presentation comes in a deluxe, brown, leatherette box measuring 5 3/4" x 4 1/4." The outer lid depicts a central motif of a 1914 Iron Cross. Surrounding it is a Bavarian flag, oak leaves, and crossed cannons, all exquisitely executed in high relief. The oversized upper lid is lined in traditional blue silk, while a darker blue velvet covers the fitted lower (also oversized) half of the case. The lower half houses the 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class, and the Bavarian Military Service Cross 3rd Class with Swords. Above each of these two decorations is a small rectangle of the appropriate ribbon for each decoration. Attached to the upper lid (with the ribbon tucked into the liner) is the Hindenburg Cross for Combatants. This was probably a late addition to the grouping, at some point after the Hindenburg Cross was first issued in 1935. Multi decoration groupings like this are an infrequent find, particularly in such an attractive display. This combination is also quite scarce. It is splendid and shows this native son of Bavaria‘s pride of service. $625.00
09-511 THREE DECORATION GROUPING, INCLUDING 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE - BAVARIA.
09-733 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS - ORIGINAL
PRESENTATION CASE.
This is a most unusual presentation of the 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class and a Hindenburg Cross for Next-of-Kin (Widow’s Cross). Both come housed in a delightful presentation case. The case measures 3 1/2" x 5 1/2" x 3/4." Its exterior is multicolored and stippled. This pattern completely covers the exterior and extends to its upper inner lid. The case’s lower half is lined in brown velvet, with fitted places for both of the decorations. These areas even include spaces for the decorations’ rings. Both the decorations are in MINT condition. It is an exquisitely stunning presentation. $550.00
09-853 DELUXE CASED SET - 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS AND HINDENBURG CROSS NEXT-OF-KIN ( WIDOW’S CROSS).
This is a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class in the presentation case. It is a privately-purchased example, hallmarked "SW" for Sy and Wagner, one of Kaiser Wilhelm II’s house jewelers. The cross is in excellent condition. It has a wonderful patina. Inside the case the cross’s ribbon is held by two narrow straps. The vivid blue case is fascinating. It measures 3 3/4" x 3." $495.00
09-598 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS HALLMARKED SY & WAGNER IN THE ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
09-880 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS - DELUXE PRESENTATION CASE. Over the years we have offered you a wide variety of Iron Crosses in original and custom cases. This is certainly one of the more unusual among them. It is certainly a large example, measuring a whopping 11 1/8" x 9 9/16" x 5/8." The case is covered with black leatherette. Its outer lid sports an applied 1914 Iron Cross. As we open the lid fully, the presentation case measures 22 13/16" x 9 9/16." The case’s lower portion contains a wreath of what appear to be leather laurel leaves. The leaves are of different shades and have all been rendered in one application, although they look like they are layered. At the top of the wreath is a black, white, and red ribbon, displaying Germany’s national colors. Displayed in gold lettering on one ribbon is "Erinnerung am den Grossen Krieg" (In Memory of the Great War). A 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class is gently laid in the wreath’s center. It is in very fine condition and comes on a short length of ribbon. The case’s upper lid sports another sprig of the laurel leaves, as well as another short bit of the red, black, and white ribbon. This set displays beautifully, but you had better have a good-sized area in which to display it properly! $475.00
09-550 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS - ORIGINAL BROWN PRESENTATION CASE MARKED TO A SOLDIER FROM HESSE-DARMSTADT. This is an interesting 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class. It has a presentation case measuring 3 3/4" x 2 1/4." Its exterior is a rich, textured, brown leatherette. No button secures the case; the top lid simply swings up. Attached to an unusual green-velvet upper lid (the upper lid is almost always silk), is a Hesse-Darmstadt veteran’s group badge. The case’s bottom is also lined in the same green velvet. (It is also unusual to have the same color for both top and bottom lids). In the fitted bottom is a fine 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class. The paint on the obverse rates at about 90%. A very short length of well-used ribbon is attached to the case’s top. The hallmarking "KO" appears on the Iron Cross’s jump ring. This firm produced many of the issued 1st and 2nd Class Iron Crosses. This is a fine presentation. $475.00
In most cases, the Iron Cross 2nd Class was awarded in a paper packet. Early in the war, senior military commanders may have received an Iron Cross 2nd Class in a presentation case. More frequently, a 2nd Class Iron Cross in a presentation case was a privately-purchased item. This Iron Cross presentation case measures 3 3/4" x 2 3/4" x 1 1/8." It is black leatherette. It has a brass snap closure on the exterior. As we open the case, we see a light-blue, silk, upper liner. The case’s fitted lower half is a dark-blue, with a white rope trim. As for the Iron Cross, it is MINT. The paint is perfect. The frame’s patina is lusciously attractive. Hallmarking appears on the jump ring, although it is faintly marked, "KO" can be seen. The ribbon attached to the cross measures 3 1/2." $425.00
09-834 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
This is a privately-purchased 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class in the original presentation case. The case is black leatherette, with silver trim around the edge. The case measures 31/2" x 21/2." Inside the case is a white, silk-lined, upper lid. A small strap supports a short length of ribbon for the Iron Cross. The case’s green-velvet bottom half is fitted to hold the Iron Cross. The Iron Cross is in outstanding condition, with 100% paint on both obverse and reverse. Hallmarking appears on the jump ring. This is a top-of-the-line presentation. $425.00
09-566 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS IN THE ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
This is an interesting display easel for a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class. The easel measures 4 ½" x 3 ½." It presents purple velvet on its obverse, with a small peg on which the jump ring for the Iron Cross is hung. Below the Iron Cross, engraved on a small, silver, bandeau-shaped plaque is "Dinont 15 August 1914." This is a very early war Iron Cross which would date t the first ten days of WW I. This man achieved a real act of bravery to receive such an early war Iron Cross 2nd Class. On the reverse of the display is the easel, which swings out when one desires to display the presentation. This is different and quite handsome way to display an Iron Cross. $425.00
09-514 EARLY WAR AWARD OF THE 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS IN A DISPLAY EASEL.
This is a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class. It is in fine condition. It is hallmarked "KO" on the jump ring. Many of the awarded 1st and 2nd Class Iron Crosses came from the Stuttgart firm. It comes in a black leatherette case that measures 3 1/4" x 1 1/2" x 3/4." The case has the standard silk and velvet-lined upper and lower halves. A holder appears on the case’s upper half, but has no ribbon. This cased Iron Cross is value-priced. $395.00
09-839 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
09-817 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE. This is a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class in its original presentation case. The Iron Cross is in extremely fine condition, with paint on the obverse and reverse rating 100%. The case in which it comes is oversized. It measures 5" x 3 1/2" x 1 1/2." It is brown leatherette. Embossed in small silver letters is "E. K." Inside, the case sports a silk upper liner. The case’s bottom is fitted to hold the Iron Cross. A small compartment is at the top, where a folded ribbon resides. This is a very unusual presentation. It is also one of the biggest cases I have ever encountered. $395.00
This is a most interesting combination of a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class and its presentation case. As the Iron Cross was generally awarded in a simple paper packet, those that came in a presentation case were almost always privately-purchased. The Iron Cross is in exceptional condition, with 100% paint on the obverse and reverse. The presentation case is blue. It measures 3 1/2" x 2 1/2" x 1." Inside the case, the upper lid is lined in red silk. The case’s lower half is lined in red velvet. The top part of the case’s bottom half has a small section where the ribbon is stored. The ribbon piece measures 4 1/2" in length. The case also has a fitted section in which the Iron Cross resides. This is a different variation of the cased Iron Cross 2nd Class theme. No button is present for closing and opening the case. The top half, which is hinged, simply opens up. $395.00
09-794 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION (BLUE) CASE.
09-409 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS IN THE ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE. An Iron Cross 2nd Class is always a prized acquisition. Except for early war examples to higher ranking officers, they were almost always privately purchased items. This particular example comes in a unusual case of a type I have not seen before. The case is a black leatherette measuring 2 1/2 x" 4". It is one of the highest-quality cases I have encountered. Inside we see a light-blue silk upper lid, and a dark-purple velvet base, wherein the Iron Cross is housed. Around the cases bottom half is a rope-like trim that frames the outer edges. What I also find unusual about the case is that it is especially thick. It measures 1" in thickness, which gives it an overall substantial appearance and feel. The Iron Cross itself is of the highest caliber and condition. A correct ribbon is attached. The case and all of the other ingredients make for a wonderful presentation. $395.00. .
1914 2nd Class & Misc.
This is a most interesting desk piece, which has a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class as its central theme. The desk piece’s black marble base is rectangular and measures 3" x 5." In the base’s center, a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class is mounted at an angle. What really catches one’s attention is that the cross’s right arm is broken. The break is very clear and, in my opinion, quite symbolic. This cross was selected for a reason, or was altered to suit its creator’s needs or vision. Other than the break, the Iron Cross is in excellent condition and is a top-quality example. $250.00
09-907 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd DESK PIECE.
09-905 1813/1870 IRON CROSS DESK PIECE IN PRINZENGROßE SIZE. This is a small re-creation of the 1813/1870 Iron cross. It is almost prinzengroße-sized, measuring 1 ½" x 1 ½." It was once painted black. Most of its paint is now missing. I believe it could have been a patriotic item from around the time of the 1870-1871 Franco-Prussian War. $45.00
09-813
DECORATIVE HAND CARVED WOODEN IRON CROSS.
Wood carving in Germany has a
strong tradition, not only in the Black Forest, but all over Bavaria, and in
other parts of the country. Today we are offering you something that is
quite different and quite touching at the same time. It is a hand carved,
wooden Iron Cross. It measures 2” x 2” x 1/2,” and displays the true art of
the holzschnitzer (wood carver) at his best. In the Iron Cross’s center is a
beautifully crafted rose. The four arms sport other flowers and leaves. The
piece is done in very high relief. The flowers jump right out at you. Please
take a moment to examine our photographs. You will be certain to enjoy this
item as much as I do. It has a jump ring and a loop attached at the top.
$250.00
09-823 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS.
This Iron Cross is a different variation. At first glance it looks like a
one-place medal bar. However, it has no backing and no pin. So, we have an
Iron Cross that has its ribbon parade-wrapped. Sewn to the reverse is a
ribbon for the 1914 Hessen Iron Cross 2nd Class equivalent.
Looking a bit closer, we even see a small ribbon piece from Oldenburg’s
1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class equivalent. The Iron Cross itself is in
very fine condition. $95.00
09-867
1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS - ORIGINAL AWARD FORMAT.
When an Iron Cross 2nd Class was awarded during WW I, it was
pinned near a buttonhole on the awardee’s tunic. It was worn in this manner
for the rest of the initial award day, and perhaps a brief period
immediately thereafter. Once the initial period ended, awardees did NOT wear
their Iron Crosses on their uniforms as
they had been originally awarded. They might add them to medal bars for
display on dress tunics, (or on a suit jacket after his military service had
ended). While on active duty, a soldier could display the Iron Cross ribbon
in his tunic’s buttonhole. [Interestingly, a soldier might display other
ribbons through his buttonhole. If he was an officer who had been awarded
the Knight’s Cross with Swords of the Hohenzollern House Order, he would add
a ribbon similar to the Iron Cross’s that had a gilt Hohenzollern Crown with
crossed swords attached to it].
Our offering today is a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class in fabulous
condition. The paint on the obverse and reverse rates right at 100%. An
original ribbon, which measures 3 1/4" in length, is attached. On the reverse is
the original safety pin with which the Iron Cross was attached to its
recipient’s tunic. We so seldom find an example like it these days. I am
thrilled to share it with you.
$125.00
09-882 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS.
This is a very
interesting 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class. The paint on both the
obverse and reverse is quite attractive, and rates at 100%. The frame’s
patina is especially pleasing. A hallmark appears on the jump ring that I
honestly cannot decipher. A short length of original ribbon is
attached to the Iron Cross. In turn, a very old safety pin is attached to
the ribbon. I believe the safety pin is original to the Iron Cross, and this
is how the Iron Cross was presented to the soldier. It is one of those
things that makes an Iron Cross like this such a fine addition to a
collection. We find very few Iron Crosses with the safety pin attached to
the ribbon. Again, it is what makes the example so desirable.
$125.00
09-909 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd
CLASS - NON COMBATANTS. This is a very fine example of a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd
Class with the scarce Non-Combatant’s ribbon. Both ribbon and cross are in
marvelous condition. $150.00
09-868
1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS - NON COMBATANTS. This is a very
fine 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class for non combatants. It has a delightful
obverse with nearly 100% paint. Its reverse is also quite appealing.
Attached to the jump ring is a length of ribbon that measures 6" in length.
The ribbon sports a wide white band and two narrow black bands. A
combatant’s ribbon is just the opposite, featuring a wide black band and two
narrow white bands. $135.00
09-885 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS. Two weeks ago I offered a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class that had
an original safety pin with which to attach it. When I acquired that
example, I also acquired a similar piece that I am offering today. This Iron
Cross has excellent paint that rates 99% on both the obverse and the
reverse. The ribbon measures 2 1/4" and has an
old black safety pin attached. It is a lovely presentation that shows how a
soldier would have received his Iron Cross more than ninety-years ago.
$125.00
09-830 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS HALLMARKED "KO."
This is a very nice 1914 Iron Cross 2nd
Class. It is hallmarked on the jump ring "KO". This firm which was located
in Stuttgart was the primary producer of issue (awarded) 1st Class Iron
Crosses. The Iron Cross comes with a short length of ribbon.
$115.00
05-69 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS WITH RIBBON. These Iron Crosses come complete with ribbon. These items are always in-stock. The photos shown here are representative of the Iron Cross you will receive and are NOT of the Iron Cross we will select for you. All are in fine condition. Iron Crosses offered at this price will be UNHALLMARKED. We do have several varieties of HALLMARKED iron Crosses which while available are more expensive. Please feel free to ask for what we currently have and we will be happy to assist you. $85.00
05-55 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS WITHOUT RIBBON. If you are willing to forgo the ribbon you can save a few dollars. These Iron Crosses come with no ribbon. These items are always in-stock. The photos shown here are representative of the Iron Cross you will receive and are NOT of the Iron Cross we will select for you. All are in fine condition. Iron Crosses offered at this price will be UNHALLMARKED. We do have several varieties of HALLMARKED iron Crosses which while available are more expensive. Please feel free to ask for what we currently have and we will be happy to assist you. $70.00
09-771 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS - HALLMARKED. This is a fine example of a privately purchased 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class. It is hallmarked on the jump ring but I cannot make out the markings as the stamping is very faint. This is quite unusual. The paint is in very fine condition. The frame displays a fine patina. The ribbon measures 3 1/2." The ribbon has been sewn together. $95.00
$95.00
09-855 MINI 1914 IRON CROSS MOUNTED ON BOW. This is a miniature 1914 Iron Cross, measuring 1/2" x 1/2." It is one-sided, with that side featuring a 1914 EK’s information in enamel. The Iron Cross is then mounted on a bow, which indicates that it was made for a woman. Mounted on the reverse is the safety pin with which she affixed it to a garment. It is well made and in very fine condition.
This is a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class. The jump ring and the smaller ring that were attached to the cross are not present. The cross itself is in good condition. Perhaps you can find use for it in a display. $45.00
09-910 1914 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS.
1870 & 1914 2nd Class Misc.
12-374 KRIEGS-DESPESCHEN 1870 & 71. If you are looking for something a bit unusual from the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871, this is it. This item is laid out as a book, but an unusual one since it has a hollow interior. The exterior is a very fine leather. The front cover bears the title "Kriegs-Despeschen 1870 & 71" with a full-sized 1870 Iron Cross. The faux pages are gilt edged, which is classic high-quality for book pages. A brass snap appears on the books side; when it is released, the interior of the "book" is revealed. Inside are four compartments which hold playing card-sized cards. These are reproductions of the official war dispatches that were issued during 1870 to 1871 describing the conduct of the war and the official news. I guess you could call this CNN-of-the-day in a box! These dispatches were released as posters or handbills so the citizens could see how their army was performing in France during this short-lived war. The four compartments hold, I would estimate, approximately 350+ of these various cards. I will photograph just a small sampling of these cards. I have not looked at them all. It will be up to the new owner to discover what treasures lie within. You will have hours of fun with this. I can assure you! $950.00 .
24-35 IRON CROSS DESK PIECE. This is a most interesting and unique 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class desk piece. Somebody has taken a black piece of marble that measures 5" x 3 1/8". He then took an Imperial period, high-quality replication of a 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class. Then he affixed the cross to a ball that is tilted at about a 45 degree angle on the piece of marble. I had to look at the cross several times before I realized that it was not an actual cross. The grain of the paint is different and the reverse of the cross, while complete, is unpainted. There is a small piece of period ribbon that is sewn onto the loop of the cross. This is all attractively done. The Iron Cross is quite appealing on the base. $150.00
1870 1st & 2nd Class In Presentation Case
09-906 XBW 1870 IRON CROSS 1ST CLASS & 1870 2nd CLASS WITH TWENTY-FIVE-YEAR JUBILEE OAK LEAVES. This is a consignment item. Today we are offering a magnificent matched set of 1870 Iron Crosses in 1st and 2nd Class. The 2nd Class comes with the twenty-five-year oak leaves for the jubilee of the 1870 2nd Class’s original award. It is my personal view that the pair were produced and purchased sometime after 1895, perhaps from 1895 to 1900. [They may have been given as a gift to some well heeled veteran. I doubt that he was a royal or noble, as I explain later in the description, but rather that he, and his family or friends, was middle to upper class]. The 1st Class measures 1 11/16" x 1 11/16." It is slightly smaller than a traditional 1st Class. It is not easily noticed, but it is a bit smaller. The cross is flat (non vaulted), as was correct for the period. Two spots of paint are missing on the cross’s right arm. Another two spots appear on the lower arm just below the "1870." The beading and frame are exceptional, with a most handsome patina. The reverse reveals a fine, sturdy pin. The patina on the reverse matches that of the obverse. No hallmarks appear on the reverse. The 1870 Iron Cross 2nd Class measures 1 5/8" x 1 5/8." While the obverse exhibits toning due to age (very common in the 1870 AND 1895 Iron Crosses), the beading and frame are of the same superior quality and design as the 1st Class. Attached to the cross’s top is a very small ring. Typically, the jump ring is attached to it and then the ribbon is placed through the jump ring. The twenty-five year oak leaves are attached to both of these rings. We find the devices mounted in this manner on complete twenty-five-year Iron Crosses. (The other method is to attach the device directly to the ribbon with the use of two metal prongs that pierce the ribbon and then fold over). The device is extremely well made, even down to the leaves’ veins. The central "25" stands out plainly and in great detail. The case is black leatherette and measures 7 ½" x 5 3/8" x 3/4." The initials "BL" (as best I can tell) are embossed in gold on the outer lid’s center. [Earlier I stated my opinion that the presentation did not belong to either a royal or nobleman. The initials are simply NOT depicted in the style one normally sees for someone of that exalted station.
A nobleman might even have a small "v" in the mix. I said
that I felt the owner and the giver were of the middle/upper class. The presentation’s superior quality speaks of people wealthy enough to commission it]. The case sports two brass snap closures. As we open the case, we see a ribbon for the 1870 Iron Cross 2nd Class stretched diagonally across the upper left corner of the case’s lower half. The case’s upper half is covered in black velvet, while the lower half is covered with deep navy velvet. The lower half also sports cutouts for the two crosses. Each cross fits perfectly in its housing. This is a one-of-a-kind, custom presentation of both 1870 Iron Crosses. Some research might prove the original owner to be a most interesting man. $6,495.00 Price Reduction $5,795.00!! Second Reduction $5,195.00!!
JL
1870 1st Class
09-257 1870 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS. This is a most interesting private-purchase example of the 1870 Iron Cross 1st Class. It is, of course, of the flat, or non vaulted, variety. What really makes this example unique is that it is has four loops on the reverse to sew it onto a tunic as opposed to being the more commonly seen pinback. This system of affixing the Iron Cross to the tunic was used for 1813 Iron Crosses, which sometimes used four and eight loops. This system was used from time to time for 1914 Iron Crosses, but rarely. There is no manufacturer hallmarking on this Iron Cross. The cross and the patina to it exhibit honest wear. A very unusual example compared with the more commonly seen Godet and Wagner 1870 Iron Crosses. This Iron Cross really has a lot of personality. $2,795.00
09-620 1870 IRON CROSS 1st CLASS. This is a fine example of a privately-purchased 1870 Iron Cross 1st Class. As was the custom of the time, the Iron Cross is flat, not vaulted. The cross’s center IS magnetic, with a very small stress fracture. Its paint is exceptional and rates at about 98%. The reverse features a fine swollen pin. No evidence of manufacturer or silver content appears on the cross’s reverse. It is a fine example, very fairly priced. $2,195.00
1870 1st Class Prinzengroße
Currently None Are Available
1870 2nd Class Combatant & Non Combatant With & Without the Presentation Case
09-901 1870 IRON CROSS 2nd CLASS AND TWENTY-FIVE-YEAR OAK LEAVES. In 1895 Kaiser Wilhelm II authorized the issue of a twenty-five-year jubilee attachment for the 1870 Iron Cross 2nd Class. The attachment was for men who had been awarded the 1870 Iron Cross 2nd Class. It is styled as three conjoined oak leaves that sport a silver "25" in their center. The Iron Cross is in very fine condition, with nearly 100% paint on the obverse AND reverse. The frame displays a marvelous silver patina. The ribbon measures about 6" length. Attached to it is the twenty-five-year jubilee device, which is secured by two prongs that bend over on the ribbon. All in all, it is an excellent example. $850.00
1870 2nd Class Prinzengroße (includes the Merit Cross for Women and Young Women, commonly known as the "Virgin's Cross.")
Currently None Are Available
1813 1st Class
Currently None Are Available
1813 2nd Class
1813 2nd Class Prinzengroße
Currently None Are Available
09-276 XBL SEWN - ON FABRIC 1914 IRON CROSS 1st
CLASS.
CL
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