3 Piece Spange with 1870 EK2

[Brian R]

Thanks for all the info, guys. While I know that this certainly is no period or jubilee combo, I was hoping that it could have possibly been a piece from the 30's - put together for non-fraudulent purposes. The possibility seems pretty unlikely based on the opinions here. I think Rick's point about the high hanging KDM, in place of a Hindenburg cross, is the best example as to why this combo is no good.

While I am no expert on 1870 EKs, I am pretty well convinced that this one is original (jubilee or early 1900s) based on the rust (not recent/intentional) and the way the frame is separating from the core (I'm curious if you guys see this too - so many of the 1870 EKs seem to have separating frames). I wanted to take a picture of the reverse but the threads keep me from turning the cross over - I did get a slight view of the oakleaves and date and could see that they were finely detailed. By the way, Tony's (Tiger 1) observation about the holes is excellent. They certainly do look to be drilled from the back, causing the crack in the core. The metal left from the drill is so small though, I'm not sure it's enough to easily fray the thread. Either way, though, the drilling certainly seems pointless.

In the end, this spange is already on its way back to where it came from. I really appreciate all the info and help.

Thanks again,
Brian

[Brian S]

When I get back into town I'll post a photo of great grandfather Leo wearing his 1870 as a Hauptmann shorting after it being awarded. He was one of the first to win an EKII and the first in his regiment. Then a photo of him as a Lt. Gen. wearing the EKII in a very very large framed photograph. I'll zero in on the photo and you can clearly see the EKII. Then at very old age, literally days before his death in a family portrait and he's wearing the first EKII, for the last time. First two photos very clear shots of EK.