Prussian Iron Cross 1914 2nd Class - Godet
Iron core black lacquered, marked "G" in the ring.
Prussian Iron Cross 1914 2nd Class - Godet
The Prussian Iron Cross 1914 2nd Class by Godet represents one of the most significant military decorations in German history and an outstanding example of craftsmanship from one of Berlin's most prestigious order manufacturers.
The Iron Cross was originally instituted in 1813 by King Friedrich Wilhelm III of Prussia during the Wars of Liberation against Napoleon. The 1914 reinstitution at the beginning of World War I occurred on August 5, 1914, by Kaiser Wilhelm II. The decoration was awarded in three classes: the Grand Cross, the Iron Cross 1st Class, and the Iron Cross 2nd Class.
The firm Godet & Sohn, founded in Berlin in 1827, was among the most important manufacturers of military orders and decorations in the German Empire. The workshop on Alexandrinenstraße was renowned for its exceptional quality and precise workmanship. The characteristic “G” marking in the ring of this cross clearly identifies this piece as a product of this traditional manufactory.
The Iron Cross 2nd Class was worn on a black-white-black ribbon and was the most common grade of this decoration. The black iron core symbolized Prussian virtues of modesty and the renunciation of precious materials during wartime. The characteristic black lacquer protected the iron from corrosion and gave the order its distinctive appearance.
During World War I, approximately 5.4 million Iron Crosses 2nd Class were awarded, reflecting the massive mobilization of German forces. The award criteria required demonstration of particular bravery or military merit in the face of the enemy.
The iconography of the Iron Cross 1914 shows on the obverse a crown with “W” for Wilhelm II, below “1914”, and on the reverse the year “1813” as reference to the original institution, along with the initials “FW” for Friedrich Wilhelm III.
After the war, the Iron Cross retained its symbolic value as a mark of military honor. The quality of Godet's production is evident in the precise execution of details and the durable black lacquer finish. These crosses are today important historical documents that represent not only military decorations but also testimonies to German craftsmanship and the social significance of military honor in the early 20th century.
