1914 Iron Cross - 2nd. Class

The 1914 Iron Cross Second Class was awarded to more than 5 million German soldiers during World War I for combat heroism, bravery or leadership. It was required to have earned this medal before receiving the Iron Cross First Class. There were instances of both medals being awarded simultaneously. This medal generally was not worn, except when it was first presented. A ribbon on the service uniform signified the award. Our reproduction is nickel-plated with a blackened center. The obverse displays the imperial crown, a “W” for Kaiser Wilhelm and the 1914 institution date. The reverse displays the imperial crown, the initials FW for Prussian King Frederick William III. The 1813 date for the award’s creation during the Napoleonic Wars. The medal is suspended from a ring, with five inches of ribbon material.