World war 1 Iron Cross first class (Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse) that comes on its original screw-back disc (Schraubscheibe). Re-instituted by King Wilhelm II on 5 August 1914 for award during WWI. Both the Iron Cross 1st Class and the Iron Cross 2nd Class were awarded without regard to rank. The second class medal was for award to personnel who performed a single act of bravery in combat. One had to already possess the 2nd Class in order to receive the 1st Class. The cross has a three piece construction and has a magnetic iron core. The cross comes on its original and naturally functional screw-back set-up. The cross is not visible maker marked. The initials 'v.C.' have been engraved on the back. The cross is in truly worn condition showing a great patina. Nice and scarce original example!