Prussia, Kingdom. An 1813 Iron Cross I Class, Period Restored Sew-On Version

(Eisernes Kreuz 1813 I. Klasse). Instituted 10 March 1813 by King Friedrich Wilhelm III. (1813-1915 issue). Constructed of magnetic sheet metal and silver, consisting of a Cross Pattée with a blackened magnetic metal core within a ribbed silver frame, the reverse arms completing at each edge in rivets which retain three of four original nuts to secure the frame together, with each corner soldered with a loop to facilitate sew-on attachment to the bearer’s uniform, unmarked, measuring 43.09 mm (w) x 43.12 mm (h), weighing 11.2 grams, demonstrating evidence of period (c. 19th century) replacement of the original iron core with an unusual metal substitute, in turn secured together with rivets in lieu of the original soldering along the seams of the frame, an interesting example demonstrating unusual customization in very fine condition.