Original Item: Only One Available. Established by Prussian King Frederick William III in 1813 for gallantry in action, the Eisernes Kreuz (Iron Cross) decoration was revived several times for later conflicts. The bulk of the issues are divided into 1st and 2nd class versions, but a rare and superior 'Grand Cross' was also awarded for successful field commanders. During WWI the lower decoration was freely awarded with 5½ million second class types issued. Originally, the Iron Cross was an award of the Kingdom of Prussia, however given Prussia's pre-eminent place in the German Empire formed in 1871, it became an award for all of Germany.

This is a very good example of the Imperial German / Prussian Iron Cross second class, complete with the original black & white ribbon properly threaded through the ring, and a safety pin used to attach it to the wearer’s shirt. We checked the ring, and it is unmarked. Condition is very good, with a lovely patina on the silver portions of the award, and some oxidation and paint flaking on the central cross. 

The medal comes with its original certificate which is dated December 18th, 1919, and was awarded on January 15th, 1920. We are unsure what the context of this awarded would be given how late it was awarded. The soldier, Martin Lutz, was born on May 20th, 1886 in Bruchhausen, Germany. The certificate has a stamp which is likely for the Weimar Republic. The back has a small page of translations.

Please note the edge seam for authentication, which is not present on reproductions. Iron crosses were commonly constructed from an iron core sandwiched in a surrounding two part silver frame, normally the seam of these two silver parts is visible around the edge of the cross as is seen on this fine example. The silver has a great aged patina, and the painted central has almost all of the paint on both sides, with the expected checking and crazing from age.

This is a great chance to own a very nice example of the most iconic of all Imperial German awards, complete with the original award document. Ready to research and display!