This guide will cover only the Prussian 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class ribbon.  The Eiserne Kreuz (Iron Cross - often abbreviated EK or IC) was originally instituted on 10 March 1813 by the Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm III and was re-introduced by Kaiser Wilhelm II (acting as the King of Prussia) in 1914.  It was awarded for bravery in the field - without regard to rank or status - during World War I.   The 1914 Iron Cross reverse was designed in 1813 by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, a famous Prussian sculptor and architect.  All German and Austrian recipients were entitled to at least one other medal - as a minimum, the 1914-1918 Cross of Honor.  It is unknown how many Iron Crosses 2nd Class were awarded, estimates range from 1.5 to 5.5 million.

The 1914 Eiserne Kreuz II. Klasse or Iron Cross 2nd Class has a black silk ribbon (about 32mm wide) with 2 white stripes near each edge and is UV-negative.   A version of the ribbon with the colors reversed is often called the non-combatant or civilian ribbon. 

The Iron Cross:  A History, 1813-1957 (Gordon Williamson) and The Iron Time:  A History of the Iron Cross (Stephen Thomas Previteria) are two excellent references that should be consulted but there are many other excellent works as well.  A review of most Imperial German unit histories typically list the number of 1914 Iron Crosses 2nd Class that were awarded and, sometimes, biographical information with illustrations.  The German Decorations & Orders Society (BDOS) publishes outstanding detailed information as well.

Copies of this ribbon are known and are sometimes regarded as suitable collector examples if they are verified contemporary - but many sellers do not make the distinction clear.  Again, the best advice is:  Buy only from a reputable dealer who specializes in WWI Prussian medals.

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