This remarkable German World War I Iron Cross 2nd Class grouping consists of a finely preserved 1813/1914 Iron Cross housed within an exceptionally rare Prussian silver Hindenburg presentation box. The cross itself is a crisp and attractive example retaining its original blackened core and sharp detail throughout. The suspension ring bears a maker's stamp, adding further collector interest. Accompanying the award is a highly desirable silver presentation case featuring a high-relief portrait of Generalfeldmarschall Paul von Hindenburg in full uniform, surrounded by an ornate oak leaf border. The interior retains its original lining and velvet cushion with only minimal age-related wear. The lid has become detached from the hinge but remains present with the set.
The Iron Cross remains one of the most iconic military decorations in German history. Reinstituted by Kaiser Wilhelm II at the outbreak of World War I, the award recognized acts of bravery and distinguished service in combat. The design retained the traditional symbolism established during the Napoleonic era, with the Royal Crown of Prussia displayed on the upper arm, the imperial cipher "W" of Wilhelm II at center, and the date 1914 marking its wartime reauthorization. While Iron Crosses are collectible in their own right, period presentation cases of this quality and significance are encountered far less frequently.
The Hindenburg presentation box elevates this set to another level entirely. As one of Germany's most celebrated military leaders of the First World War, Hindenburg became a national symbol of Imperial German military achievement. Presentation pieces bearing his likeness were produced in far smaller quantities than standard award cases and today represent some of the most desirable accessories associated with Imperial German decorations. The combination of a finely preserved Iron Cross, maker-marked suspension ring, and rare silver Hindenburg case creates a visually striking and historically important display set that would serve as a centerpiece in any collection of Imperial German militaria.
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