Imperial Screwback Iron Cross 1st Class

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Here we have a rare vaulted Imperial screwback - Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse. 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 one-piece, die struck nickel construction. 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 has light wear. The non-schinkle shape indicates this was a private purchase example issued 1939-1945. The cross measures approximately 1 ¾ inches wide and tall.