Hello to all,
I have acquirred recently a 1870 EK II cross with 25 year spange and would like to know if it is possible to tell apart crosses that were awarded in the1870-71 era from those that were issued subsequently (in 1895 for instance). On my example quality of the core is high with crisp details and sharp edges but the cross is fairly asymmetrical. The rim even overlaps part of the details on the reverse and had to be hand fitted. No maker mark that I can see. Ribbon has a somewhat narrower black middle band than the ribbons on my 1914 crosses. A short 2" section of ribbon of 1914 type has been sewn at each end of the original ribbon thus making the ribbon longer for an unknown reason. This 1870 EK II measures about 41 x 41 mm and the oak leaves on the reverse are 20mm wide. Magnetic core, three parts. Carrying ring soldered on one side of frame only. Does a board member have a 1870 EK II of known origin issued in 1870-71 to compare? Thanks in advance.
I have acquirred recently a 1870 EK II cross with 25 year spange and would like to know if it is possible to tell apart crosses that were awarded in the1870-71 era from those that were issued subsequently (in 1895 for instance). On my example quality of the core is high with crisp details and sharp edges but the cross is fairly asymmetrical. The rim even overlaps part of the details on the reverse and had to be hand fitted. No maker mark that I can see. Ribbon has a somewhat narrower black middle band than the ribbons on my 1914 crosses. A short 2" section of ribbon of 1914 type has been sewn at each end of the original ribbon thus making the ribbon longer for an unknown reason. This 1870 EK II measures about 41 x 41 mm and the oak leaves on the reverse are 20mm wide. Magnetic core, three parts. Carrying ring soldered on one side of frame only. Does a board member have a 1870 EK II of known origin issued in 1870-71 to compare? Thanks in advance.
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