Rare Imperial Screwback Iron Cross 1st Class

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Here we have a rare vaulted Imperial screwback - Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse by C.F. Zimmermann, Pforzheim. The 1st Class Iron Cross was awarded to those who had received the 2nd class iron cross and preformed 3-5 acts of bravery in the face of the enemy, or actions that were clearly above and beyond the call of duty. It is a multi-piece, die struck construction that has been soldered together. The single piece core is constructed out of an iron metal base that has been black enamel painted. The frame and back plate are constructed out of a silver base that has been silver washed and marked, "Silber". A final protectant lacquer was applied over the entire award. The obverse features; a patte style cross that has a centrally placed embossed "W" (cypher for King Wilhelm II), below a Kings crown and above "1914" to the lower arm, which is all on a black base and surrounded by a silvered ribbed/beaded row and a flat outlying border. The full back reverse features a centrally soldered on male screw piece, washer and female screw device. The paint is well worn and the frame/screw pieces have wonderful patina! The cross measures approximately 1 ¾ inches wide and tall.