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WWII GERMAN IRON CROSS - FIRST CLASS -
The Iron Cross has long been held as a symbol for bravery in combat, The Germans have been employing it
as an award since the 1800's. The Iron Cross employed during WWII is very similar to that used in
WWI.
The major differences between the two periods are the dates displayed in the lower arm of the cross
and the absecense of a Swastika in the WWI type.
The award was issued in two primary types:
- First Class - Pin back construction
- Second Class - Award suspended via a ribbon
The item featured here is a WWII German Iron Cross first class award. The award was issued in a box
with a certificate. Additional accoutrements such as ribbons could be obtained and were authorized
for wear by the recipient of the Iron Cross.
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The "Military minute" is a series of instructional videos created by MilitaryItems.com for the purpose of
providing basic information about military collectibles. The idea is to expose people to the exciting
world of military collectibles.
The video presentation coupled with detailed photographs and written information, including a military
collectible's price guide, enhances the visitor's experience.
Whether you are a long time collector, a beginner or simply have an interest in the history and value of
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This page is a recognition and identification guide for WWII German badges and awards. Multiple
detailed photos of a specific sample are provided. Descriptions point out clearly defined points
that should be noted.
One of the most commonly asked questions is "How much is my WWII German badge worth?". A price
guide is included here to address this question. The value of the badges and awards is reviewed
over a period of several years. A trend can be observed. The present worth of the German
badges in the collector's market is illustrated.
This service is provided free of charge to the visitor/enthusiast courtesy of
MilitaryItems.com,
a company dedicated to the preservation of military history and to providing quality military
antiques and collectibles to museums, institutions and the general public.
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The award is composed of two identical crosses pressed together. A
vertical pin
is hinged at the top of the award. A catch is provided at the opposite end.
The body of the cross is outlined by a ribbed ridge. It is placed about a quarter of an inch away from the
edge of the cross. It follows the contour of the body. The area inside the ridge is painted black and has
a swastika in the center with the date 1939 just below. The outer perimeter is of silver color. The
cross is made of iron.
The Iron Cross first class is worn on the
tunic
by passing the pin throuigh loops (two or mote) sewn to the chest.
This award is currently being reproduced.
It is becoming more difficult to be able to tell the fake ones from the real ones because the quality
of the reproductions is improving. The collector must become familiarized with the construction style
and materials employed in the manufacturing of this badge. Attention to the details is critical in
order to be able to determine the authenticity of the badge.
If you have an interest is seeing other badges and awards of the Third Reich, you can do so by going
to our WWII German Badges and Awards
identification guide. Where we cover Heer (Army), Navy (Kriegsmarine) and
Air Force (Luftwaffe) items.
GERMAN IRON CROSS 1st CLASS VARIATIONS
The Iron Cross 1st Class was produced by several manufacturers and in different configurations.
The following section displays some of the different types that were produced.
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