RARE outher carboard box for the Iron Cross first class by B.H. Mayer

A highly desirable and exceptionally scarce original outer cardboard carton for the Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse 1939 (Iron Cross 1st Class). These fragile cartons originally housed the presentation case and were usually discarded during the war, which makes surviving examples today extremely rare. This piece is attributed to the well-known manufacturer B.H. Mayer of Pforzheim, as marked on the side of the box.The front of the carton is clearly printed with 'Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse 1939' and 'Nur vom Empfänger zu öffnen,' exactly as intended for issue. The box retains its original form and remains structurally solid, which is remarkable considering the delicate nature of these items. There is a small tear on the front panel, but this does not detract significantly from its overall appearance.Overall, this is a very respectable example of a seldom-seen packaging component that is often missing from complete Iron Cross 1st Class sets. Its rarity and fragility make it a highly sought-after addition for collectors aiming to complete or enhance a display with an authentic and original outer carton.