Germany, Imperial. A 1914 Iron Cross II Class with Customized Display Case

(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, the suspension loop maker marked “S” for an unconfirmed manufacturer believed to be either the Leipzig firm of Heinrich Schneider of Berlin firm of Friedrich Sedlatzek, measuring 42.75 mm (w) x 48.14 mm (h), weighing 18.9 grams, accompanied by an elaborate customized display case, constructed of two pieces of card stock with an exterior faux black leather liner, the lid bearing a silver depiction of the award in fine detail, opening to reveal ribbed black rayon liners through both the lid and bottom, with a dark navy blue velvet bed featuring a depression perfectly measured to accommodate the accompanying cross, with a slit through which the ribbon fits and secures the cross in place, set on a swivel hinge to lock the case open for display, the case itself opening with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release, unmarked, measuring 105 mm (w) x 130 mm (l), a superb display set demonstrating the veteran’s pride of ownership, in an overall extremely fine condition.