Germany, Imperial. A 1914 Iron Cross II Class, with Commemorative Case, ca. 1933

(Eisernes Kreuz 1914 II. Klasse mit Etui). Reinstituted 5 August 1914. (1914-1918 issue). Constructed of iron and silver, on loop for suspension from 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, unmarked, measuring 43.53 mm (w) x 47.83 mm (h), weighing 15.8 grams, accompanied by a unique commemorative presentation case, constructed of a heavy card stock frame with a faux black leather exterior, the lid bearing a silver embossed depiction of the award, circumscribed by a silvered inscription of “DANKBARKEIT DEN DEUTSCHEN HELDEN” (“IN GRATITUDE TO GERMAN HEROES”) and “TURNGENOSSENSCHAFT COBURG”, the interior with a padded white satin lid liner and intact hinge cover, with a slotted maroon velvet medal bed, opening with a metal spring catch with exterior stud release and a functional metal hinge, measuring 62 mm (w) x 86 mm (l) x 24 mm (h), the case displays some material fatigue and the spring catch no longer functions properly, a postwar veteran’s reissue set in overall near extremely fine condition.