Imperial WWI Iron Cross Curved Clamshell

The "clamshell" Iron Cross 1st Class is a specific variant of the German military decoration that features a unique screw-back attachment mechanism on its reverse, designed to secure the medal to a uniform. Instead of the standard pin and catch seen on most Iron Cross 1st Class (EK1) medals, this variant has a centrally soldered female screw piece with a large, round, ribbed nut that tightens over it. This nut often resembles a clamshell in its shape when viewed, leading to the collector term "clamshell".
Manufacturer: This specific screw-back design is famously associated with the manufacturer Wilhelm Deumer from Lüdenscheid. While other makers produced screw-back EK1s, the "clamshell" design is a clear indicator of Deumer production. Like other authentic Iron Crosses, it has a three-piece construction with a genuine magnetic iron core and a separate silver (or nickel-silver) frame. These variations were produced for both World War I (dated "1914") and World War II (dated "1939") periods. The Iron Cross 1st Class was a high-level award for exceptional bravery or outstanding merit in the face of the enemy, and a recipient had to already possess the Iron Cross 2nd Class to be considered for the 1st Class. The "clamshell" screw-back system provided a very secure fastening method, perhaps more so than a simple pin, which was important as the medal was worn on the left breast pocket of the uniform at all times. Some collectors note that the screw-back versions were often slightly vaulted (curved) to sit better on the uniform.

This item:
In a mint condition this unmarked Iron Cross first class from the first war. This specimen is executed with a "Schraubscheibe" or Screw Back and is slightly curved. The so called Clamshell variant were made by the company Wilhelm Deumer. A very nice Iron Cross!