WWI Freikorps Period Baltisches Kreuz 1st Class

WWII Approved WWI Freikorps Period Baltisches Kreuz 1st Class (Steckkreuz) - Low-Vaulted Multi-Piece Issue with RivetsAn exceptional, investment-grade original example of the highly desirable Baltic Cross 1st Class (Baltisches Kreuz 1. Klasse), originally instituted in 1919 by the Baltic National Committee and officially approved for continued military wear by the German state in May 1933. This decoration was exclusively awarded to Freikorps volunteers and paramilitary personnel who performed a minimum of three months of frontline combat service against Bolshevik forces in the Baltic states during the turbulent 1918-1919 campaign. Out of the 21,839 total Baltic Crosses awarded across all classes, only approximately 10,000 were issued as the prestigious 1st Class Steckkreuz, making genuine combat-era examples highly sought-after by advanced collectors of Weimar-era paramilitary history.This premium, multi-piece variant features a solid iron or heavy alloy lower cross base that showcases a magnificent, smooth dark-chemically patinated reverse. Crucially, the rear reveals the textbook presence of two original, counter-sunk brass klinknagels (rivets), confirming the authentic multi-piece construction and securing the upper gilded-brass cross to the base. This assembly method stands in stark contrast to late-war or post-war one-piece cast reproductions. The upper cross features the distinct stylized fleur-de-lis (French lily) terminals representing the city coat of arms of Meynard.The piece displays a breathtaking, deep golden-brown age patina to the gilded front elements, which provides an outstanding contrast against the dark background. The cross features a very elegant, subtle low-vaulted profile and closes completely flush and perfect when held against a flat surface. The reverse retains its original vertical attachment pin, heavy block-style hinge, and robust round C-catch setup, all completely untouched and free of any post-war repairs or modifications. A truly honest, textbook piece of early Freikorps gallantry history.