EK 1870 1870 EKII

[cool]

Hi, this is a very nice 1870 EKII from my collection. The ring has been replaced at sometime for a brass one. The cross measures 42mm and the arms 23mm. I am sure it was made between 1870 and the 1890's, any feedback on this would be great.! I hope you all like this one as much as i do.! Thanks for looking, Cool.

[cool]

Obverse 2.

[cool]

Reverse.

[Panzer57]

I'm no expert on crosses, and the ring probably has a story of it's own, but it looks to be a nice cross Cool. Maybe Mr. Williamson will give you his opinion on this one?

cheers!

[Stogieman]

Odd brass suspension ring. Details not quite as sharp/distinct as I like to see on an 1870. Core looks oddly grained as well.Possibly later manufacture, ca 1895 for the jubilee. But, having said all this, much clearer/larger photos are needed to be definitive on this cross. Thanks!

[cool]

Hi, im sorry Stogieman, but that's the best i can do on the photo department.! I was wondering,? Mr Williamson's book the Iron Cross a history, says that the 1870 EKII should be 42mm across,! is this just for crosses made between 1870 and 1890.? The details on this cross are much better in the flesh Stogieman, and the workmanship that has been put into this cross is 1st class.! It is only the brass ring that lets it down. Thanks, Cool.

[Gordon Williamson]

The 1870s I have had which I believe to have been of that period were generally fractionally smaller than those which I was confident were of later manufacture (1870s were still being made during the 3rd Reich period). Somewhere between 42-43mm being typical for "original" 1870s, with 43-44mm for later made pieces, but I wouldn't be too prescriptive on this, other features are more "telling" than simply the size.

Rick will know his Imperial EKs much better than me.

[Guest Brian von Etzel]

I can't see it well enough to know whether it's period or not but it appears it was converted into a medalbar piece.

[Panzer57]

So from what I am understanding, the size of the one Cool posted at 42mm is correct for the early versions. But Mr. Williamson what do you mean by, the other features are more telling?

Thanks