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DAY 2: The World at War: A Historic WW1 & WW2 Militaria Auction

Sun, Jul 19, 2026 11:00AM EDT
  2026-07-19 11:00:00 2026-07-19 11:00:00 America/New_York Treasure Trove Treasure Trove : DAY 2: The World at War: A Historic WW1 & WW2 Militaria Auction https://live.treasuretroveauctions.com/auctions/treasure-trove/day-2-the-world-at-war-a-historic-ww1-ww2-militaria-auction-23507
Treasure Trove Auctions proudly presents Day 2 of our premier militaria event—an explosive offering centered on the most iconic conflicts of the modern era. Featuring a massive selection of rare and highly sought-after World War II artifacts, alongside an exceptional offering of scarce World War I material and compelling post-war militaria, this is a must-see event for serious collectors. From battlefield relics to elite combat collectibles, we deliver exceptional history at every turn. Now is your opportunity to acquire artifacts from some of the most defining eras in human conflicts!
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Lot 800

1870 Franco-Prussian War Grand Cross of the Iron Cross with 800 Silver Ribbon Loop

Starting Bid
$250

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $25
$100 $50
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,500
$50,000 $5,000

This very well-made 1870 Grand Cross of the Iron Cross is a large-format Franco-Prussian War era decoration complete with ribbon. Measuring approximately three times the size of a normal Iron Cross, this example is properly made in three-piece construction, with an iron core sandwiched between two joined silver frames. The top rear flange, just left of the suspension eye, is stamped with an 800 silver content mark, while nearby markings include the stamped number 21, a crown, and a halfmoon. The cross is suspended from a properly sized white-bordered black ribbon with a rounded 800 silver marked suspension loop. The iron core shows light areas of rubbed and missing paint, now mostly turned to a pleasing russet brown patina, while the silver frames remain intact with no splitting.

The Grand Cross of the Iron Cross was the highest grade of the Iron Cross system and was awarded only in exceptional circumstances for major battlefield command and military achievement. The 1870 Iron Cross is directly tied to the Franco-Prussian War, the conflict that led to the unification of Germany under Prussian leadership and the proclamation of the German Empire in 1871. Large-format Grand Cross examples are among the most visually powerful forms of the Iron Cross, combining national symbolism, military prestige, and exceptional scale.

This is an imposing and highly attractive Grand Cross display piece, built with the correct oversized presence, silver framing, iron core, and properly marked suspension hardware. The aged patina gives it depth and character without compromising the integrity of the frame, making it a dramatic acquisition for collectors of Iron Cross variants, Franco-Prussian War awards, and Imperial German military history. Dimensions: Approximately three times the size of a standard Iron Cross.

★ ★ ★ ★
Very Good/Fine – Shows light to moderate wear, may have minor imperfections. A very fine example of the collectible. May also be labelled as Collector Quality.


Condition assessed using Treasure Trove Auctions’ proprietary grading scale. While we strive for accuracy, all ratings are subjective and based on our best evaluation as determined by a dedicated team of researchers, from expert appraisers to knowledgeable historians and veteran collectors. Full grading details can be found on our Authentication page for reference. For a more in-depth condition report or additional images, please contact us and we will be more than happy to oblige.

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