Lizzy Posted February 15, 2022 Share Posted February 15, 2022 Hello, The Iron Cross shown in the photos was amongst my father’s possessions. I remember seeing it at the family home during the 1950’s. I know nothing about it or where it came from other than it belonged to my Dad. Box is battered but it is the original. Can anyone tell me please if it is authentic? Is it worth anything? I have tried and it does pass the magnet test. Thank you in advance 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kenny Andrew Posted February 15, 2022 Share Posted February 15, 2022 Hi Lizzy, that one looks OK, I have replied to your earlier email regarding valuation. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fritz Posted February 15, 2022 Share Posted February 15, 2022 If that is the original case to the decoration, it is worth as much as the decoration itself, so take care of it! 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lizzy Posted February 15, 2022 Author Share Posted February 15, 2022 Thank you Kenny. I live in Wales UK. Is this 1st or 2nd class and what's the difference please? Thank you. 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lizzy Posted February 15, 2022 Author Share Posted February 15, 2022 Thank you Fritz. it is the very same presentation case I saw in the 50's. 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kenny Andrew Posted February 15, 2022 Share Posted February 15, 2022 Hi Lizzy this is the first class cross, which is pin backed, the second class has a loop and ribbon 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lizzy Posted February 15, 2022 Author Share Posted February 15, 2022 Another question......what would the 1st class been awarded for? 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fritz Posted February 16, 2022 Share Posted February 16, 2022 The pinback version is the first class. The second class is worn on a black and white ribbon and has a reverse side, with the date 1813 at the bottom (first created in 1813), above that, oakleaves and FW under the crown. FW stands for Friedrich Wilhelm III., in whose reign the iron cross was instituted on his idea. The second class was awarded for some feat of bravery or for having been several days in the front line under heavy fire. The first class could only be awarded when the recipient is already in posession of the 2nd class. 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lizzy Posted February 20, 2022 Author Share Posted February 20, 2022 Thank you Fritz for the explanation. 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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