IMPERIAL EK1 - (Would love to hear your opinions)

**BLONDI** · 09-24-2010, 09:11 PM

Hi Guys,
I have started a thread on the Third Reich forum in relation to iron crosses and mentioned that after having begun to research this particular award, I was having doubts about my Imperial EK1. I would be grateful if any of you guys could give me your views on this. I dont Know about the case, The Cross itself is stamped 900 on the pin. When I bought it (about 7 years ago) the owner explained that the catch had been replaced.

This cross had a lovely patina when I got it and it pains me to say that I cleaned it (and cleaned it, and cleaned it) to the extent that if it is original, I have no doubt devalued it. (Important lesson learnt)

Please have a wee look and let me know what you think.

Thanks

Andy

**Espenlaub Militaria** · 09-24-2010 09:11 PM

We also buy and trade your items and full collections!

**Walkwolf** · 09-24-2010, 09:45 PM

Looks like a nice cross - a bit over-cleaned.......
It looks like what would be called a 'field' or home repair. A jeweller
would not normally leave a blob like that.

Others will have more to say about it, but I think the case is from
WWII - with white interior. IMO WWI cases should have
blue or purple velvet inside.

**oradour** · 09-24-2010, 10:27 PM

Blondi, nice EK I, it is quite common place for catches/pins to be replaced/repaired, I wouldnt worry about that, the box is probably as Walkwolf says TR period, however close-up photographs of the box its hinge, button and covering would be beneficial.....as for cleaning, IMO it is purely preference, and I personally feel that it has not devalued the cross....many will disagree, but remember, the original recipient would never have had "Dirty medals", I treat every cross I obtain on its merits, filthy it gets a sympathetic clean, I have clean and aged patina crosses in my collection, no problem for me, if its a problem to anyone else, thats thier perogative. Your cross would look nice on my Husaren Attila !
Prost ! Steve.