The Story
History of the Artifact
The Iron Cross First Class was a German military decoration awarded for bravery and leadership during World War I. Unlike the Second Class, which was worn from a ribbon, the First Class was a pin-backed medal worn directly on the uniform tunic, indicating a higher level of distinction. The design followed the traditional cross pattée shape established in the early nineteenth century, with a black iron core set within a silver frame, typically bearing the crowned “W” cipher of Kaiser Wilhelm II and the date 1914, marking the reauthorization of the award for the war.
The award had to be earned in sequence, meaning a soldier first received the Second Class before being eligible for the First Class, reinforcing a structured system of recognition for repeated or notable acts of courage. The Iron Cross carried strong cultural meaning in Germany, symbolizing duty, sacrifice, and military honor rather than rank or social class, and it could be awarded to both officers and enlisted men. During the First World War it became one of the most recognizable decorations of the German military, closely associated with front-line service and acts of battlefield bravery.
How do I know these are original Iron Crosses?
Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection:
- Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.
- 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.
- 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.
Details & Craftsmanship
Every detail has been carefully considered to bring you the perfect product.
Description
History of the Artifact
The Iron Cross First Class was a German military decoration awarded for bravery and leadership during World War I. Unlike the Second Class, which was worn from a ribbon, the First Class was a pin-backed medal worn directly on the uniform tunic, indicating a higher level of distinction. The design followed the traditional cross pattée shape established in the early nineteenth century, with a black iron core set within a silver frame, typically bearing the crowned “W” cipher of Kaiser Wilhelm II and the date 1914, marking the reauthorization of the award for the war.
The award had to be earned in sequence, meaning a soldier first received the Second Class before being eligible for the First Class, reinforcing a structured system of recognition for repeated or notable acts of courage. The Iron Cross carried strong cultural meaning in Germany, symbolizing duty, sacrifice, and military honor rather than rank or social class, and it could be awarded to both officers and enlisted men. During the First World War it became one of the most recognizable decorations of the German military, closely associated with front-line service and acts of battlefield bravery.
How do I know these are original Iron Crosses?
Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection:
- Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.
- 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.
- 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.
