EK1 Iron Cross / Eisernes Kreuz Schauerte & Höhfeld three-piece with regular date inner core in near mint condition.

EK1 Iron Cross / Eisernes Kreuz Schauerte & Höhfeld three-piece with regular date inner core in near mint condition.

Manufacturer: Schauerte & Hohfeld
Three-piece, non-magnetic, this version is very rare such in condition, because this the pieces inner core have zinc and it is well known that zinc does not withstand the passage of time well, so in many cases the paint comes off.
This piece has survived in almost perfect condition.
In this condition, I have never seen a piece from this manufacturer in similar condition, so this is a cross that has been preserved in exceptional condition.

This cross is an early version, but already consists of three parts. The frame is made of non-ferrous metal, the inner core of zinc, therefore it is non-magnetic. Two versions of this type are known: the traditional one and the one with a small date inscription. Many people did not notice the differences for a long time or were unaware of them, as examples with a “small date inscription” are very rare. Therefore, there is only one unique cross.

This piece was offered to collectors for a long time by an unknown manufacturer. Later, some collectors associated it with Friedrich Linden, then later with Assmann. Today, however, we know with absolute certainty that these pieces were manufactured by Schauerte & Höhfeld.
Over time, examples bearing the marking L/54 surfaced.
Although many still cling to what’s written in books as the facts are facts.
Thanks to my considerable dedication and the support of several collectors, this has finally been proven, and the identification of the manufacturer of this piece is now considered certain.