Imperial 1st Class Iron Cross by Square Punch

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An Imperial Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse by Square Punch - Carl Dillenius of Pforzheim. The Imperial Iron Cross 1st Class was instituted on August 5, 1914 and was awarded to those who had received the 2nd Class Iron Cross and made significant sacrifice during the war. 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 and factory vaulted. The frame and back plate are constructed out of a nickel-silver base that has been silver washed. A final protectant lacquer was applied over the entire award. The vaulted obverse a pattée style cross that has a centrally placed embossed “W” (cypher for King Wilhelm II), below a Kings crown (top arm) and above “1914” (lower arm), which is on a black base and surrounded by a silvered ribbed/beaded row and a flat outlying border. The full back reverse is maker marked with a centrally placed "square". The catch and features a soldered-on wide block hinge, stamped catch and straight pin. The paint looks good with some wear to the high areas and it has beautiful patina to the frame. There are a few odd scratches. The cross measures 1 5/8 inches wide and tall. A great piece!