(Eisernes Kreuz 1939 I. Klasse mit Etui). Constructed of iron and silver, consisting of a Cross Pattée with a blackened magnetic iron core within a ribbed silver frame, the obverse with a central mobile swastika, the six o’clock arm with a reinstitution date of “1939”, the reverse with a barrel hinge and banjo-style pinback meeting a flat wire catch, unmarked but with the physical characteristics of manufacture by the firm of B.H. Mayer, Pforzheim, measuring 44.30 mm (w) x 44.20 mm (h), weighing 16.7 grams, accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of heavy card stock with a faux black leather exterior, the lid with a silver embossed Cross Pattée, the interior with a white satin lid liner and intact hinge cover, with a slotted beige velvet medal bed, opening with a functional magnetic metal spring catch with exterior stud release and a functional magnetic metal hinge, unmarked, measuring 68 mm (w) x 66 mm (l) x 24 mm (h), in overall near extremely fine condition.
Footnote: From the collection of Dietrich Maerz.