German WW1 Iron Cross | Second Class

History of the Artifact

The Iron Cross Second Class was a widely awarded German military decoration issued for acts of bravery and meritorious service during World War I. The medal takes the form of a cross pattée with a black iron core, typically bearing the crowned cipher of Kaiser Wilhelm II on the upper arm, an oak leaf cluster in the center, and the date 1914 on the lower arm, marking the year the award was reinstated for the war. Unlike the First Class version, this decoration was suspended from a ribbon and worn through the buttonhole of the uniform tunic, making it visually distinct while still clearly part of the same award system.

The decoration was awarded in very large numbers throughout the war and served as the foundational level of the Iron Cross system, since soldiers generally had to receive the Second Class before becoming eligible for the First Class. It could be awarded to soldiers of any rank, reinforcing the idea that bravery and service, rather than social class, were being recognized. The Iron Cross had deep roots in Prussian and later German military tradition, and during the First World War the Second Class became one of the most recognizable symbols of German military service and wartime recognition.

How do I know these are original Iron Crosses?

Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection: 

1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

What will my artifact look like?

Your medal will look very similar to the ones shown in the photos. There will always be some variety, given our items are unique historical pieces. The display case included is openable so that you may easily handle and closely observe the artifact. If for whatever reason you get anything that does not fit this description you are entitled to your money back! 

Your order will include:

• One authentic German WW1 Iron Cross
• Elegant protective case for preservation and display of your artifact 
• Certificate of Authenticity

Ancient Artifacts relics are guaranteed authentic and have a 100% money back policy. Read more about our Mission and Promise for authenticity.