Germany, Imperial. A 1914 Iron Cross I Class, Deutscher Offizier Verein Private Purchase Example

(Eisernes Kreuz 1914 I. Klasse). Reinstituted 5 August 1914 by Kaiser Wilhelm II. (1914-1918 issue). Constructed of iron and silver, consisting of a vaulted 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 central threaded screw post retaining an original nut and backplate, the former marked “DEUTSCHER OFFIZIER VEREIN” indicating distribution by a noted retailer of military goods, with a silver content number of “800”, measuring 42.35 mm (w) x 41.89 mm (h), weighing 21.4 grams (inclusive of hardware), demonstrating moderate loss of finish throughout the core and some scratching and denting to the frame, an interesting example in better than very fine condition.