4 Cased EK'1's

[rfleming32]

Last three in their cases

[Brian S]

are all three cases exactly the same?

[rfleming32]

The cases are similar but not the same. The share the following things in common: (1)single hinge, (2) all stamped with an iron cross on the top of the lid of similar configuration, (3) all have embossed line around the outside of the top, (4) the interior lining on the top has horizontal grain to the satin or whatever it is, and (5) they are similar in size, and (6) they all have beveled bottoms, and (6) they all have the white lining around the interior bottom of the case.

The differences are (1) 2 appear to be slightly vaulted on the top and thinner in height (2) 1 has a different material on the bottom of the case than the others, (3) and there are slight diffences to the flocking (one being deeper purple color), (4) two definately have material backing on the bottom interior of the case underneath where the pin area of the flocking.

I have not tried to take them apart. Do WWI cases have makers marks like the WWII versions?

Hope this helped

[gregM]

The first of the 3 crosses looks to be a 1 piece cross. Is that right?
The 2nd one is a Godet and the 3rd looks like a KO.

[rfleming32]

Hello Greg - I think you are correct in your assessment of the first cross being a one piece. I just took a look under the 10X microscope and confirmed this. It also appears to have a brass core that is plated or coated as is evident on the photos. I don't know if this is good or bad? So the "G" is Godet - a good thing I think. Made great badges in the later war. So, 3 of the 4 crosses look good so far ... I can see why Imperial is an intersting area of study. Thanks for looking.

[Brian S]

I'm not overly optimistic about the first one.

[gregM]

[quote=rfleming32;1922526 So the "G" is Godet - a good thing I think.[/quote]

Godets are one of my favorite maker. As for your 1 piece cross, I
am pretty sure it is a good piece as well. I think you did real well
to get a KO, Godet and KAG all in one lot. The 4 crosses together
make a very nice sampling of Imperial EKs

[Rik]

One case is inscribed on the interior. What does it say?

It says:

EK1 handed out by Seine Majestät (his royalty, emperor Wilhelm II)Kaiser Wilhelm II

Nice grouping of iron crosses!

KR,
Rik