I have hesitated time after time to ask this question, but my curiousity is too great. A year or so ago I bought an 1870 EK1 from a dealer well know for his "insane" high prices. Let me explain. This is the exact same cross shown at the bottom of page 113 of Steve Previtera's book The Iron Time. It is the one marked "I have seen war". I have the letter of sale from Steve (the cross is from his personal collection) to a buyer and then a letter from my dealer to confirm he subsequently bought it directly from the same person. Based on the unique wear to the cross and my conversation with Steve I have no doubt this is the same cross as shown in his book. The silver content of the cross is marker "14 lotig" which indicates it was made prior to the change in silver marking of 800, 900, etc. that I believe occurred in 1873. The cross was advertised as "issued" which seems to make sense to me. I don't have buyer's regret but I am curious if the $2,800 price I paid was completely out of line in terms of today's market value. My feelings will not be hurt by your comments as I am satisfied with my purchase. However, I am really curious as to possibly how much my enthusiasm cost me. Rod