Germany, Imperial. A 1914 Iron Cross I Class, with Case

(Eisernes Kreuz 1914 I. Klasse mit Etui). Reinstituted 5 August 1914. (1914-1918 issue). Constructed of iron and silver, consisting of a Cross Pattée with a blackened magnetic iron core within a ribbed silver frame, the obverse with a central initial “W”, the six o’clock arm with a reinstitution date of “1914”, the twelve o’clock arm with a royal crown, the reverse with an elongated block hinge and vertical pinback meeting a round wire catch, unmarked, measuring 42.44 mm (w) x 42.19 mm (h), weighing 18.0 grams, accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of a heavy card stock frame with a faux black leather exterior liner, the lid bearing a silver Cross Pattée, the interior with a white rayon lid liner and intact hinge cover, with a slotted beige felt medal bed, closing with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release, unmarked, measuring 68 mm (w) x 68 mm (l) x 20 mm (h), the cross demonstrating a striking patina, in overall extremely fine condition.