German WWII Cased 1939 Iron Cross 1stClass by Deschler-This is a great example! The black center core retains 99% of its original black finish, and the entire frame and back is beautifully toned. The pin setup works as intended. The pin itself is marked with a '1' for the maker Deschler. The small leatherette case is in good condition, though there is a spot of damage to the lower reverse, so please see the photos. But overall, the case is in good condition. This would make a great display, and the medal itself is near excellent.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.