#97 • 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class

Part of British & World Medals (live auction by Bannerman Auctions)

High bid $150.00

Status: Sold

1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. German World War I period Iron Cross, 1st class with flat profile and reverse of medal featuring barrel hinge and vertical banjo-style pinback with round wire catch. Directly below catch on reverse is maker marked stamped "KO". Medal exhibits some wear, tarnishing to silver, some slight patina loss to iron core and bend to catch on reverse. Estimate: $100 - 200 Historical Background: The Iron Cross 1st Class (Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse) from the World War I period was a highly respected military decoration of the Kingdom of Prussia, and later the German Empire. It was generally awarded to those who had already earned the Iron Cross 2nd Class and performed an additional three or four acts of bravery or exceptional service in the face of the enemy. Unlike the 2nd Class, which was worn suspended from a ribbon, the 1st Class was a pin-backed medal worn directly on the left breast pocket of the uniform. This made it immediately visible and a potent symbol of frontline experience and valor. The design of the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class featured a black cross pattée with a silver frame. In the center of the cross, the royal cipher of King Friedrich Wilhelm III of Prussia was replaced with the imperial cipher "W" for Kaiser Wilhelm II, and the year "1914" was inscribed on the lower arm. Since it was awarded for repeated displays of courage, recipients of the 1st Class were considered among the most dedicated and seasoned soldiers. Famous recipients include figures like Manfred von Richthofen and a young Adolf Hitler, making this specific medal a historically significant artifact associated with the Great War.