Eisernes Kreuz 1st class, real or fake?

[AHudson319]

Good afternoon, saw this up for sale today and was wondering if it seemed to be authentic or not. Very cheap price wondering if that’s because of the condition that it’s in. Makers Mark seems to be a ‘20’ Carl Friedrich Zimmermann, please let me know what you think! Thank you

[rbminis]

The hinge, pin, maker's mark, and catch all appear to be correct for this maker.
I don't have enough knowledge to vouch for the frame.
The condition could very well account for the price.
Ralph.

[jamie7d7]

As Ralph says, all appears to be pointing towards Zimmermann.

However, unless you were being offered it for the same price as a Chomp bar or similar (other chocolate bars are available), I'd leave it. The '20' marked crosses aren't particularly difficult to track down and most will be in better condition.

Cheers

Jamie

[AHudson319]

They want 90 bucks for it, I assume that’s a fair price considering 1st class crosses are pretty expensive.

[jamie7d7]

To be honest, if it were me, I'd keep my money and hopefully be able to save towards a decent example.

Yes 90 seems a good price for an EK1. But when it comes to moving it on, it will be a very tough sell. Unless it was to someone who collects ground dug specimens or rusty relics.

Join a couple of forums and keep an eye on dealers sites, sometimes proper bargains do appear. And I kid you not, look at this '20' that I picked up from a guy in the States before Christmas, it cost me $165!!!

Of course, being a Scotsman, under no circumstances does it mean I would sell it on for that haha.

Cheers, Jamie

[Watchdog]

I agree with the others. It looks original but it is a relic and as Jamie says these are not of "unicorn" status so unless you do like the relic look I would also put the money into a better piece.

Regards

Mark