Iron Cross, 1st class, 1914, German (c 1914-18)

Title	Iron Cross, 1st class, 1914
Nationality	German
Period	c 1914-18

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The pin (which has '26' punched in an oblong stamp for a factory called B.H. Mayer of Pforzheim) is a Nazi era production, probably made as a repair for the original 1914 cross, which has the maker's mark 'KO' (a WW1 maker) stamped by the hook on the reverse.

This is the classic gallantry award for WW1, given when the award of the EK2 was deemed insufficient recognition. Hitler wore one, earned as a despatch runner!

The condition is excellent with the exception of the black paintwork, of which only small traces remain, principally around the 'W' in the centre of the cross and the date. And, as already mentioned, the pin is a later replacement. The frames on these 1st class Iron Crosses are almost invariably unhallmarked silver, as are the frames for the 2nd class examples.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.

[Militaria : Medals : German : 20th Century]

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