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Title Iron Cross, 1st class, 1914, screw-back
Nationality German
Period 1914-18
Sold

This is the well-known gallantry award for the Great War, marked 800 on the reverse (ie 80% silver). Adolf Hitler was awarded one of these as a runner in his Bavarian regiment in WW1. The screw-back variety is considerably scarcer than the pin-back type.

This has all its original black paint finish and has a two-part screw fitting on the reverse. This is almost identical to a reverse fitting in V.E. Bowen's authoritative book The Prussian and German Iron Cross, the second illustration on page 138, although in this case the cross is a curved example.

There is apparently the possibility that the male screw fitting elements may be replacements in the era of the cross's use, ie contemporary replacements. For instance, the screw fitting appears to be silver-plated brass, while the spinner appears to be silver.

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


[Militaria : Medals : German : 20th Century]

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Just to let you know that i have received the Sabre today and it looks great and nothing was damaged in transit. It has been a pleasure doing business with you and the descriptions on your web site perfectly match the condition of the item and i look forward to doing business with you in the future.

D E, UK, 20.01.2017

...the sword arrived safely today... My son, who shares my interest in antique edged weapons and for whom I bought the sword, is delighted.

G A, France, 24.01.2007

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