Iron Cross.

Iron Cross. A Prussian order, instituted on March 10, 1813, by Frederick-William III., to be conferred for distinguished services in war. It was made of iron to commemorate the grim 'iron' period at which it was created. The decoration consists of a Maltese cross of iron, edged with silver, and is worn round the neck or at the button-hole. The order was revived by William I. on 19th July 1870, on the eve of the great war with France. The grand cross, a cross of double the size, is presented exclusively for the gaining of a decisive battle, or the capture or brave defence of a fortress.