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Germany. Iron Cross 1st Class by Klein & Quenzer (KO)
The 1914 Iron Cross was re-established by Wilhelm II on 5 August 1914, shortly after the outbreak of the First World War. Originally a Prussian decoration created in 1813, it became Germany’s foremost award for bravery and distinguished military service in combat.
The Iron Cross 1st Class was awarded to servicemen who had already received the 2nd Class and subsequently distinguished themselves through further acts of courage, leadership, or exceptional service on the battlefield. Unlike the 2nd Class, it was worn as a pin-backed decoration directly on the uniform tunic.
This example bears the «KO» maker’s mark on the reverse, identifying the manufacturer as Klein & Quenzer of Idar-Oberstein, one of the officially authorized producers of Iron Crosses during the war.
The decoration is constructed in the traditional three-piece configuration, featuring a frame surrounding an iron core, a hallmark of original wartime production.
Original German First World War decoration.
