German WW1 Iron Cross | First Class

German WW1 Iron Cross | First ClassHistory 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 patte shape established in the early nineteenth century, with a black iron core set within a silver

and stylized portraits of key figures like Gagarin

tangible artifacts of the Christianized Roman world

The curvature may have helped strengthen the thin metal or simply resulted from local minting techniques

The decoration was not limited to soldiers alone—it could also be awarded to civilians and even military units that displayed exceptional courage under fire

accompanied by the inscription "GEORGE V KING AND EMPEROR OF INDIA" around the edge

This item is an authentic Roman bronze Sestertius depicting Marcus Aurelius

rich with allegory and moral symbolism

including in Jerusalem

and Slovenes

the Pontifical States reflect a fascinating fusion of faith

including whales

Sasanian silver drachms were of high purity and became a dominant currency in international trade