World War 1 Iron Cross 1st Class (Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse mit Trägergravur). 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 with an iron core and a silver frame. The cross is nicely maker marked with 'KO' indicating production by the 'Königliches Münzamt Orden' from Berlin. The pin and catch are in good functional condition. The cross is having a stunning battle engraving on the back of the Battle for Mailly near Amiens: "Sturm auf Mailly bei Amiens 4/4 1918" and inbetween is engraved the name of the soldier and his unit 'R.J.R.24 1/5 Kp.' (Reserve Infanterie Regiment 24), this Regiment was active in France from 27 March 1918. Rare and decorative original engraved cross in very good condition!