BACKGROUND: The order of the Iron Cross was founded by King Friedrich Wilhelm III of Prussia, after the "Freidenskrieg," or 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.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: 1914 pattern, die struck, three piece, iron and alloy construction Pattée style cross with a single piece iron core and a two piece silver alloy frame. The obverse of the cross features an embossed, central, "W" cypher for King Wilhelm II, the re-institution date, "1914", to the bottom arm and a King’s crown to the top arm. All three emblems are in nice high relief. Complete with original hinge, pin and catch assembly. Comes with its original issue case. The pin is well marked with the embossed manufacturer's code in a square recess, "4", indicating manufacture by Steinhauer & Lück, Lüdenscheid. This would be a 1930's manufactured example.