Eisernes Kreuz 1939 (Proper Storage)

[OkieCollector]

I recently purchased my first WW2 Iron Cross 2nd Class with the original Ribbon. I want to make sure that I store it "properly" and would really appreciate some recommendations.

I was going to use a small 4" x 5" x 1" tall "Riker's Case" with the Std. Poly Fill cushioning material that comes inside of the Case but...... after doing a little research online, I am finding that it "might not" be a good idea??.......What I have found online, says that the Poly Fill Material decomposes with heat and emits hazardous "gases" (i.e., vinyl acetate and acetic acid)..........Sounds like bad stuff!.....Not sure if a Rikers Case with Poly Fill is such a good idea anymore??

I know that LOTS of people store their Ribbons and Medals in a Poly-Fill type Riker's Case (and may have had no issues at all).......I'm just a little scared to go that way now (especially with my prized Iron Cross and Ribbon).

Can someone tell me the "correct/best" way to store and protect my Iron Cross? I'd really like to store it in a glass top Case (if possible), so I can look at it easily from time to time......Just don't want to careless and damage it , or the Ribbon by not caring for it properly.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Harold

[GlennAgain]

I display my awards behind glass in a curio cabinet and out of direct sunlight...
German troops wore their awards in combat - Exposed to the elements daily, so there's little to worry about as far as deterioration is concerned...
-Glenn-

[OkieCollector]

Thanks Glenn.....Beautiful Collection!

[Woolgar]

I have kept my EK’s in these protective pouches for over 10 years with absolutely no detrimental affect on the medals at all.