Germany, Imperial. A 1914 Iron Cross I Class, by K.A.G.

(Eisernes Kreuz 1914 I. Klasse). Reinstituted 5 August 1914 by Kaiser Wilhelm II. (1914-1918 issue). Constructed of iron and silver, consisting of a Cross Pattée with a blackened magnetic iron core within a ribbed silver frame, the obverse with a central initial “W”, the six o’clock arm with a reinstitution date of “1914”, the twelve o’clock arm with a royal crown, the reverse with a with an elongated block hinge and tapering banjo-style pinback meeting a round wire catch, the pinback maker marked “K.A.G.” for a widely-documented but unidentified manufacturer, measuring 43.07 mm (w) x 43.04 mm (h), weighing 16.2 grams, the frame demonstrating a consistent and pleasing patina, in extremely fine condition.