Germany, Imperial. A Medal Bar for a First World War Combatant

(Ordensschnalle). A privately-assembled medal bar for a First World War combatant featuring two decorations, including:

1. A 1914 Iron Cross II Class, constructed of iron and silver, on loop for suspension with its period original ribbon, 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 three central oak leaves, the six o’clock arm with an initial institution date of “1813”, the twelve o’clock arm with initials “FW” topped by a royal crown, the suspension loop maker marked “KO” for a widely documented but unidentified manufacturer, measuring 42.90 mm (w) x 47.88 mm (h), demonstrating sporadic oxidation to the core with a consistent patina throughout the frame, in very fine condition.

2. An Honour Cross of the World War 1914/1918 for Combatants, constructed of bronzed magnetic metal, on loop for suspension with its period original ribbon, consisting of a Cross Pattée with crossed swords piercing the centrepiece, the obverse bearing central wreathed dates “1914-1918”, the reverse maker marked with the logo of an unidentified manufacturer, measuring 37.51 mm (w) x 41.56 mm (h), in near extremely fine condition.

Both suspended from an improvised card stock core with a period safety pin attachment, with minor soiling visible to the ribbons, an interesting piece likely assembled by the recipient in near extremely fine condition.