Original W.W.II period german iron cross 1st class (Eisernes Kreuz) with screwback. The screwback types are more scarcely found and often have a somewhat convex appearance. These crosses have a protruding threaded shaft which went through the tunic and were secured with a flathead screw. The screwback types are in contrast with the flat type with pin, available for private purchase and were made by different manufacturers. The retail outlet was approved specifically in 1941 and under the control of the "Leistungs gemeinschaft der Deutscher Ordenshersteller" (LDO) which contracted these manufacturers to produce these crosses.

Men would have to perform three to four acts of courage after they had earned the iron cross 2nd class to earn the iron cross 1st class