~ WW2 German Iron Cross 2nd Class Medal ~
The WW2 German Iron Cross 2nd Class Medal is one of the most recognized military awards from Nazi Germany, awarded for acts of bravery on the battlefield. The Iron Cross has a long history, with its origins dating back to the Napoleonic Wars, but it was reissued under the Third Reich during World War II with new Nazi symbolism.
The suspension ring is bears no makers mark, the ribbon is a replacement.
~ The Iron Cross 2nd Class ~
The Iron Cross 2nd Class medal is a black, iron-centered cross with a silver frame and measures approximately 44mm across.
The cross has a swastika emblem at the center and the date “1939” engraved on the lower arm, marking the year it was reissued by the Third Reich under Adolf Hitler.The frame around the iron core is made from nickel silver or zinc, giving it a silvered finish.
Suspension Ring and Ribbon:
It was worn suspended from a black and white striped ribbon, symbolizing the military colors of Prussia, where the award originated.
The suspension ring of authentic Iron Crosses is often stamped with a manufacturer’s code. Each manufacturer had a unique code registered with the German government to indicate authenticity.
Historical Context:
The Iron Cross was awarded to German soldiers of all ranks who demonstrated valor on the battlefield, with the 2nd Class award being the entry-level award for acts of bravery.
Hitler reintroduced the Iron Cross on September 1, 1939, the day Germany invaded Poland, with additional Nazi insignia and a modernized design.
The Iron Cross symbolized Prussian militarism and German valor, and being awarded it was considered a mark of high distinction within the German military.