Description
GERMANY – IRON CROSS – 1914 – 1st CLASS – DOUBLE-PINBACK – WAGNER & SÖHNE
This is a very impressive 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. The cross’s obverse displays fine detail to the crown, “1914,” and the “W.” The beading around the frame is most pleasing. The paint is first-rate with just a touch of age in one area, yet still rates at 98%. The patina to the frame is also noteworthy.
The reverse reveals the Iron Cross’s prestige. A pair of pins extends down from the hinge to the dual clasps. I have not seen a double-pinback Iron Cross in more than fifteen years. I do not believe that I have ever seen more than two or three examples of a double-pinback. A special pair of sewn-in loops had to be added to a tunic in order to accommodate the double pins. The Cross’s final detail is a Wagner & Söhne hallmark in its center. This well-known Berlin firm was one of Kaiser Wilhelm II’s royal house jewelers, who produced some of Imperial Germany’s finest orders and decorations.
This Iron Cross is in pristine condition, and of the highest quality. It was privately-purchased Iron Cross and is definitely officer’s quality, probably at a high-level, possibly even of noble or royal birth. The original owner was a man of style and taste who insisted on the VERY best.
