A German Imperial 1914 Star of the Grand Cross of the Iron Cross, often referred to simply as the Grand Cross of the Iron Cross, one of the highest military decorations in Imperial Germany during World War I. Features a large Maltese cross made of iron and had a silver center medallion with a crowned W, for Kaiser Wilhelm II. This prestigious decoration was rarely awarded and was typically reserved for senior military commanders and political leaders who demonstrated extraordinary leadership and bravery during the war. With a screw back. WWI German Military Decorations For Collectors.