Prussia, State. An Iron Cross 1870 Second Class
(Eisernes Kreuz 1870, Second Class). A cross pattée of multi-piece construction with a blackened iron core (magnetic) within a ribbed border; vaulted; the obverse with a raised central “W”, with the re-institution date “1870” in raised numbering on the lower arm, and the royal crown on the upper arm; the reverse with a central oak-leaf branch consisting of three oak leaves, with the original institution date “1813” in raised numbers on the lower arm, a raised Prussian crown on the upper arm, with “FW” in equally raised lettering directly below; suspended from a period original ribbon; measuring 42.30 mm (w) x 42.53 mm (h); weighing 17.7 grams; in overall better than very fine condition.

