Prussian KHK in Aluminnum

[streptile]

Here's a neat piece I picked up recently. I've read these existed but I can't quite recall what the current thinking is about when or why.

Any info much appreicated.

Kriegshilfkreuz in Aluminum:

[streptile]

Closer.

[römischIX]

no silvered bronce one?

aluminium --> late 1917/18

[streptile]

Thanks Jo. No, this one is Aluminum (extremely light, too!)

Why were they made in Aluminum?

[römischIX]

willy had no more money since late 1916

[römischIX]

... and yes, they are not easy to get.

[streptile]

Thanks friend. Odd that aluminum was cheaper than zinc.

[römischIX]

yes? good for ya. normally aluminium pieces ~ 80 euro.

[luftkrieg]

Very nice and not often seen. Thanks for sharing this example.

Kind regards
Pierce

[Roglebk]

Nice Trev! Have a case for it, also aluminium. Maker markt Budweiser. Czech made of course, not the crappy American version.

[streptile]

Thanks guys. Carl, ship that case over.

yes? good for ya. normally aluminium pieces ~ 80 euro.

I didn't mean it was cheaper for me to buy it -- I meant that it was odd that Wilhelm II ran out of money so he started making aluminum badges. I'd have thought zinc would have been the cheaper metal to use.

[azyeoman]

Look at Tom's book on parade mounted groups and you'll see a trio with one. Apparently they're the rarest of the types to acquire. Fortunately, Tom decided to part with his EK2C, Prussian KHK (in Aluminum) and the Hindenburg Cross all mounted on a lovely frack bar and which now graces my collection. : )

[römischIX]

the shown bar is a godet one.

[morel5000]

I also thought late war models are zinc. Is there any proof that aluminum was used during the war? How did Germany obtained it with the trade embargo?

Trevor; nice medal, I remember you also have the 800 silver one, that is already a nice collection!

Best regards,
Michel

[römischIX]

zinc: "standard" version
silver: private purchased
Aluminium: late war one as i wrote. (dr. sauerwald article)