Iron Cross 1'st Class 1914 

The order of the Iron Cross was founded by King Friedrich Wilhelm III of Prussia after the war of liberation from Napoleon in 1813. It was to be an award for gallantry conferred only in time of war, and open to all soldiers, regardless of rank or social status. The Iron Cross was re-instituted at the commencement of the Franco-Prussian War in 1870, the First World War in 1914, and the Second World War in 1939. In each of the three latter cases, the specific re-institution date may be seen to the lower obverse arm.

1914 pattern die struck, three piece, iron and alloy construction cross with a single piece iron core and a two piece silver alloy frame. Reverse complete with original screw back device. The cross shows signs of age and use, there is one crack in the Iron core.

A really nice looking cross with a great age/use patina!!