Iron Cross, 1st class, 1939, German (c 1939-45)

Title	Iron Cross, 1st class, 1939
Nationality	German
Period	c 1939-45

Sold

MAGNIFY

The 1st and 2nd class crosses were the classic WW1 & 2 gallantry awards, instituted in 1813 during the Napoleonic Wars. It was awarded originally by the Prussian king, but later by Kaiser Bill to all the German armies in the field, also to his allies (the Turks and Austrians). There is an LDO number on the pin for Steinhauer & Luck.

Approximately 300,000 to 750,000 awards of the 1st class cross were made during WW2 and the standard of gallantry required was somewhat higher than that expected during WW1 and two or three times higher than that required for a 2nd class cross.

The medal has a centre made of iron and a two-piece rim usually made of 800 silver, with a silver back. Its condition is excellent, with the bulk of its original paintwork.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.

[Militaria : Medals : Third Reich : Wehrmacht]

online museum

account

testimonials