German WWI Iron Cross 1914 2nd Class-This is a good example. The black finish on the iron core shows some wear, but is mostly in place. The silver frame is nicely toned. This comes with an original portion of ribbon that is also very clean. Overall, this is in very good condition.
History: Iron Cross (EK 1914) was a continuation of the military decoration first established in 1813. Though technically a Prussian award, it served as the primary German decoration for bravery during the conflict.
The 1914 series maintained three traditional classes based on the severity of the feat:
- Second Class (EK II): Awarded for bravery in a single action. Over 5,196,000 were issued during the war.
- First Class (EK I): Required the prior award of the Second Class and continued merit. Approximately 218,000 were issued.
- Grand Cross: Reserved for high-ranking generals who made strategic decisions affecting the war's outcome. Only five were awarded (to Kaiser Wilhelm II, Hindenburg, Ludendorff, Prince Leopold of Bavaria, and von Mackensen).
- Star of the Grand Cross: A unique, higher honor awarded only once in 1914 to Field Marshal Paul von Hindenburg in 1918.