1870/71 Imperial German Iron Cross 1st Class EK1 & Award Document

Excellent high-quality reproduction Imperial German Iron Cross 1st Class (EK1) accompanied by a matching period-style preliminary award certificate (Vorläufiger Ausweis). This impressive display set represents the 1870 pattern Iron Cross, associated with the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–1871, rather than the later WWI 1914 pattern.

The Iron Cross was renewed by King Wilhelm I of Prussia on July 19, 1870, at the outbreak of the Franco-Prussian War. The 1870 Iron Cross was issued in several grades, including the prestigious 1st Class, which was worn directly on the uniform rather than suspended from a ribbon.

This finely made replica EK1 features the classic black center with bright silver-colored ribbed frame, displaying the Prussian crown, the royal cipher “W” for Wilhelm, and the date 1870. The reverse is fitted in the style of a breast-worn decoration.

Included is a large reproduction award document headed:

“I. Bayer. Res.-Korps.” – I Bavarian Reserve Corps

The central German inscription reads essentially:

“In the name of His Majesty the German Kaiser, the Iron Cross 1st Class has been awarded to…”

It includes blank spaces for the recipient and date, followed by “Der Kommandierende General” (The Commanding General) and “Vorläufiger Ausweis” (Preliminary Certificate/Identification) at the bottom.

The document has been produced with an intentionally aged appearance, including light toning and spotting, giving it an attractive period-style presentation when displayed alongside the cross.

Important authenticity disclosure: This Iron Cross and accompanying award document are modern, high-quality replicas/reproductions. They are not original 1870–71 period-issued artifacts and are offered strictly as reproduction historical display pieces.

A striking set for an Imperial German militaria collection, Franco-Prussian War display, historical exhibit, reenactment collection, shadow box, educational collection, or period military display. Original 1870-pattern Iron Crosses are significantly scarcer than later issues, making a quality reproduction an attractive way to represent this important early form of the decoration.

Condition is excellent overall as shown. Please examine all photographs carefully for exact details and condition. You will receive the Iron Cross 1st Class replica and reproduction award document shown.

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