Grand Cross of the Iron Cross 1871, Pour le Mérite post WWI

November 25, 20187 yr

#1

Grand Cross of the Iron Cross 1871.The Iron Cross was renewed on July 19, 1870 for the Franco-Prussian War. Nine men received the 1870 Grand Cross of the Iron Cross for service during that war. Seven Grand Crosses were awarded on March 22, 1871. It can be said with absolute confidence that the actual awarded pieces were marked only with the silver content "900". However, a few examples exist that were of the same quality as the 'regular' piece and were used as museum displays. This cross is very unusual because it has the date 1871. No other cross has been found with that date. Because of the “800” mark and the design of the silver frame the cross was probably made by Godet between 1930 and the end of WWII. The cross measures 2 1/2” (63mm) square across the arms. It is 800 Silver content marked at the top arm on the back side. The loop has no content or maker marks apparent. The ribbon is 2 1/4” (55mm) wide. There is tarnish on the silver and some minor to light wear of the painted center.Also pictured is an engraving of Feldmarshall von Moltke who was awarded the Grand Cross. As can be seen the cross in the picture is dated 1871.

November 25, 20187 yr

Author

#2

Prussia order of the Pour le Mérite post WWI. This order is a jewelers´ production of the post WWI period. This is a copy of a late WW1 Wagner made PLM. The obverse lettering and crown details are a lot 'chunkier' than original wartime silver gilts. The fact it is bronze gilt certainly also dates it post 1918, so while it is not an 'original' it is a high quality replacement piece. After 1918 many PLM recipients purchased a jeweler made piece as dress copy, to prevent damage to their original presentation piece or because their awarded medal was damaged during the War. The cross in gilt bronze, with nice blue enamel on both sides, it has the loop suspension. Complete with the original neck ribbon. Both of these medals came from a collection that was put together before WW2. I bought both of them almost fifty years ago.