Iron Cross Second class

Probably one of my most favorite medals, the Iron Cross Second class.

The medal was first established in 1813 during the Napoleonic Wars in reference to "Iron time", meaning the "hard times".

The beginning of this video explains the history of the Iron Cross very well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kBNZ8ZRrtF0 .

Though, of course, this one was issued during the first world war.

Front side of the medal.

Back side. My favorite side of the medal.

Showing more of the ribbon.