*WW2, German, Third Reich Iron Cross, 1st Class. (Eisernes Kreutz 1 Klasse)*
Third Reich Iron Cross, 1st Class. (Eisernes Kreutz 1 Klasse). This is a multi-piece construction with a blackened iron core within a ribbed silver border, the obverse with a raised central mobile swastika with the re-institution date “1939”. Complete with pin back fixing. Good quality details. The Iron Cross was reinstituted in Sept 1939 with the very first crosses awarded in early September for fighting in Poland – nearly 50,000 Iron crosses were sent out to divisions by the Prasiidialkanzlei (PRZ), these early crosses were made before the PKZ standardized their manufacture. The manufacturers marking system was only instituted in 1941, unmarked crosses are usually the earliest ranging from 1939-1942.
The German Iron Cross 1939 is a former military Prussian decoration, awarded for bravery and restored by Adolf Hitler in 1939. The Iron Cross of World War II was graded into three main categories the Iron Cross 2nd Class (Eiserne Kreuz II), Iron Cross 1st Class (Eiserne Kreuz 1), and the Knights Cross which replaced the Prussian Pour le Mérite or “Blue Max”. The 1st Class Iron Cross was a pinback award, worn on the left tunic pocket, while the 2nd Class cross was suspended from a ribbon when worn.
The Iron Cross was originally founded in 1813 and was considered Germany’s highest military decoration. The Iron Cross was conferred upon military personnel who rendered outstanding service and demonstrated unwavering bravery in the face of the enemy. In order to receive a higher grade, an individual had to first receive a lower grade.
*Condition*
This cross is in excellent condition commensurate with its age and service. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.