Original German WWII Iron Cross First Class 1939 with Vertical Pinback - EKI 20th Century The purpose of the bell

The purpose of the bell is to protect the operator's hands from burning powder grains

This XL size USGI fragmentation vest is essentially a flak jacket and will shield the wearer from shrapnel

India at the time was under the authority of the Honorable East India Company and these percussion rifles were used to great effect in Britain's expanding Colonial empire

muzzle attachment

Original German WWII Iron Cross First Class 1939 with Vertical Pinback - EKI 20th Century The purpose of the bellOriginal Items: Only One Available. This a very good example of a WWII Iron Cross First Class 1939, with a Magnetic core, flat design, and straight pin attachment. It is not maker marked, but that was not uncommon for later war produced awards. The medal is in very good condition, and the silver plate is retained almost completely, with areas of wear and oxidation. The black paint on the background is retained well, but there is flaking and light