WW1 Imperial German Iron Cross 2nd Class With Ribbon Maker KO Karl Friedrich Schinkel

The WW1 Imperial German Iron Cross 2nd Class with Ribbon, attributed to maker “KO” Karl Friedrich Schinkel, represents a significant German military decoration from the First World War. Established in 1914, the Iron Cross 2nd Class was awarded for acts of bravery in battle and exemplary service. The cross is constructed of a blackened iron core with a silver frame, featuring a central “W” cypher, a crown motif, and the date “1914” on the obverse side. The reverse typically displays the royal initials and oak leaves. The accompanying ribbon is black with two white stripes, consistent with the official design. The “KO” marking refers to the manufacturer Königliches Münzamt Orden (Royal Mint Orders), not Karl Friedrich Schinkel, although the style is often associated with the Schinkel form due to the narrower arms of the cross. This item reflects both the historical and typological aspects of German military honors during the early 20th century.