WW1 Imperial German Iron Cross 2nd Class Maker KO Konigliches Munzamt Orden

The WW1 Imperial German Iron Cross 2nd Class, Maker KO (Königliches Münzamt Orden), is a military decoration awarded during the First World War by the German Empire. Instituted in 1914, the Iron Cross was conferred in recognition of acts of bravery, leadership, or service in combat. This example is marked by “KO,” indicating production by the Königliches Münzamt Orden (Royal Mint Order), one of several official manufacturers. The decoration comprises a blackened iron core with a silver or silvered frame, measuring approximately 42mm in width. The obverse features a raised central “W” beneath a crown, with the date “1914” at the base. The reverse displays the royal cypher of King Friedrich Wilhelm III and the date “1813,” signifying the creation of the award. This Iron Cross 2nd Class would have originally been issued with a black and white ribbon and presented in a paper packet or box.