Emperor and King William II. Iron Cross of the 1st World War on August 5, 1914. In the Iron Cross tradition of 1813, the statutes were widely retained. The renewal of the Iron Cross in World War I consists of the 3rd class of the Grand Cross, 1st class and 2nd class. In 1918, Field Marshal Paul von Beneckendorf and Hindenburg as special uniforms were awarded the Star of the Iron Cross with Gold Rays. The reason was the successful spring offensive against France. Shown here is the 1st class with one of many known screw discs. The cross comes with a needle and screw washer. Depending on the manufacturer, various cores and fastening systems are known. Inner non-ferrous metal crosses are also known. Whether they were, as is often claimed, intended only for the navy can be doubted. The crosspiece may be straight or slightly curved. Purchased and spare parts were produced until the 1930s. The manufacturer's designation is often on the back or needle, on the needle hook, or in the center on the back. Crosses without manufacturers were also awarded.
In addition, half sizes were made with a needle or screw washer (the so-called prince size)
The Iron Cross was "reburied" until 1924. This concerned, in particular, prisoners of war, unfulfilled petitions from the war and subsequent petitions. The deadline for applications was set for 31.05.1924.
The cross is slightly domed and consists of a silver border and a silver back, the latter soldered. The front part of the coffin has a raised, located inside, 2-step edge, from which the inner edge is shaded with a semicircular and small transverse stroke. Between them is an inner cross of blackened iron (magnetic). On the rear side there is a threaded bushing in the center. For this, a stepped large disk and a screw with a large flat head, along the edge with thin teeth, are used.
Front side:
Downside:
Photos of www.militaria-berlin.de
Face: Iron Cross 1st class 1914 on screw washer
Reverse: Iron Cross 1st class 1914 on screw washer
Awards of World War II