German WWII Cased 1939 Iron Cross 1stClass-This is a very good example! The black center core retains 99% of its original black finish, and the entire frame and back is beautifully toned in the beautiful silver. The pin setup works as intended. This sits in a domed black leatherette case that is also in very good condition. There are two significant scuffs on the bottom so please be sure to look at the photos. The inside has a white flocking that is very clean and damage free. This is a nice looking medal.History: On March 10th, 1813, Prussian Kaiser Friedrich Wilhelm III established the Iron Cross as a temporary award for bestowal during times of war. Originally the Iron Cross was introduced in three grades with a Grand Cross intended for award to Senior Commanders for successfully leading troops in combat and the First and Second classes for award to all ranks for bravery or merit in action. The Iron Crosses were reinstituted by Kaiser Wilhelm I on July 19th, 1870, for award during the Franco-Prussian War and again on August 5th, 1914, by King Wilhelm II for award during WWI. On September 1ST 1939 Hitler once more reinstituted the Iron Cross series of awards in the First and Second Classes and established the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. The first-class medal was for award to personnel who performed three to five acts of bravery in combat and had already been awarded the Iron Cross second class.