Patriotic Iron Cross Brooch – 1914 Design with Laurel Wreath & Crown (Marked “GES. GESCH.”)

This is an attractive First World War patriotic brooch, fashioned in the form of the 1914 Iron Cross surrounded by a finely detailed laurel wreath surmounted by an Imperial German crown. The obverse displays a plain silvered cross with a raised border, bearing the crowned "W" cypher of Kaiser Wilhelm II in the upper arm and the date “1914” in the lower arm, denoting the year of the Iron Cross' re-institution for the Great War. The surrounding laurel wreath is crisply struck, with delicate beading along its inner edge and a small bow motif at the base.

The reverse reveals a well-preserved pin-back fastener and is stamped “GES. GESCH.” (an abbreviation of Gesetzlich Geschützt, meaning “Legally Protected”) along with the maker’s mark “MFB.” This indicates the design was a registered and protected model under German law. The pin shows honest age toning to the silver finish, with some surface darkening that highlights the crisp details of the wreath and crown.

Such brooches were privately purchased patriotic adornments, often worn by family members of serving soldiers, as well as by civilians eager to display their loyalty to the Kaiser and support for the war effort. This example’s combination of laurel wreath, crown, and Iron Cross makes it an especially appealing collectible for both militaria and patriotic jewelry collectors.

Measurements: Approx. 1 ⅛" (28mm) in diameter
Condition: Very fine, with original silver finish intact and attractive patina. Fully functional pin assembly.
Provenance: From a well-curated Imperial German militaria collection.