Germany, Imperial. A 1914-1918 Honour Cross for Volunteers

An example of a 1914-1918 Honour Cross for Volunteers (Kriegsehrenkreuz der Kriegsfreiwilligen); a gilt bronze cross pattee with swords between the arms of the cross; the obverse with an enameled medallion in the colours of the German national flag (black, white, red), surrounded by a blue ring of enamels, inscribed “Allezeit Bereit” (German - Always Ready); the reverse with pebbled non-enameled arms, inscribed “Den Kriegsfreiwilligen 1914” (To the War Volunteers); unmarked; measuring 42.83 mm (w) x 42.67 mm (h); weighing 24.2 grams; slight loss to the original gilt finish, with light contact marks on the enamels, and a bent pin; in overall better than fine condition. (C:128)