in this article bearing that name, Steinhauer & Luck double
They are also an interesting and elite artefact to collect. present the manufacturer's mark is found on either side of the pin, or on the reverse of the cross
German WW2 Iron Cross 1st Class, maker marked '26'. are exceptions to the core being iron as some Iron Crosses have a non-magnetic
More accurate seems the
Approximately 4.3 million Second Class Iron Crosses were issued, so as you can imagine, the number of variants is huge. Orders over 50 are sent by Special Delivery (7.50) / International Signed For (10). THIS CROSS HAS LIGHT SURFACE RUST ON THE IRON CORE AND AT SOME POINT THE PAINT WAS REMOVED FROM THE SWASTIKA, MOST LIKELY BY THE ORIGINAL OWNER. identical obverse features as the 2nd Class (44mm by 44mm). If you are aware of any manufacturer's that are not on this list, please let me know so that I can add them. So being non-magnetic doesn't always mean that it's fake, but being magnetic means it does have a higher chance of being legit for a new collector who is not across the finer points of identifying Iron Crosses. frames, or rims, were constructed of polished and lacquered German silver,
delivered to the Presidential Chancellery of the Fhrer - the Medal
form the shape, and the second strike to remove the rough edge left
Germany decorated deserving members of the Spanish Blue
manufactured an unmarked cross. Crosses with good original paintwork to the core tend to command higher prices, but the worn and knocked about ones also have a charm. . Awards
This example is in good condition and has some age patina to the edge and light wear to the blacked centre. Join in if you dare! World War II was the first mechanized war, and
, oak leaves with swords and oak leaves with swords and diamonds. A 1939 Iron Cross 2nd Class marked 65 for Klein & Quenzer. Genuine manufacture has the black painted iron core in the centre, then the silver frame mounted from either side. It was held by a round plate that screwed on from behind. This Ford GPW is an early scripted version it has. Campaign
Early War crosses are usually not marked. A 1939 Iron Cross 2nd Class maker marked 113 for Aurich. Collecting is about community and enjoyment. The one the the left, unmarked, has shaper details and is
This is not true. Higher grades of the award wereaccompaniedbyoak leaves, oak leaves with swords and oak leaves with swords and diamonds. War Merit Cross - Wikipedia TIPS FOR IDENTIFYING AND BUYING AN IRON CROSS, The highest grade of the Iron Cross Award. In terms of production, it was fairly similar. 2021 eMedals Inc | Militaria & Historica | eMedals Inc. All Rights Reserved. Auction house trade marks are used on this website under licence from their respective owners. A cased Iron Cross First Class by Wilhelm Deumer of Ludenscheld. The construction remained the same with it being built out of 3 pieces and of course the overall quality of production never wavered. An EK2 with a split frame clearly showing the 3 piece construction of a genuine Cross. Merit Cross
They were awarded after the 2nd Class Cross had been earned and this medal does not have a ribbon. Photo credit goes to Rocksteady Militaria, IMCS Militaria & Antiquities of the Reich.Boxed WW2 EK1 Iron Cross 1st Class Credit: IMCS Militariaif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'militariatoday_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_3',550,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-militariatoday_com-large-leaderboard-2-0');Rear of WW2 EK1 Iron Cross Credit: Antiquities of the ReichEk2 WW2 German Iron Cross Medal Credit: Rocksteady Militaria. The award was graded in the same manner as the Iron Cross: War Merit Cross Second Class, War Merit Cross First Class, and Knights Cross of the War Merit Cross. During more formal dress occasions the ribbon and medal below it would be worn on the chest in the conventional way. soldered, a "Jeweler Stick" was used to run frosting on the
Certain makers and styles are even more sought after and command higher prices. materials, usually brass but also possibly zinc. each grade are reviewed in their respective sections. A 1939 Iron Cross First Class Screw back variant in original LDO case (this example was featured as an example in a Dietrich Maerz book). The
Although
On the back the cross still has much of its original silver frosting finish and this is no doubt due to it having been protected by the box. Iron Crosses
distinguished different box available, made of black Spanish leather." The system has generally stood the test of time, but is not uncommon
If you wish to purchase any item online, we always recommend researching the items authenticity, consulting experts. WW2 German Waffenamt (Waa) Markings, Codes & Manufacturers. these are not as immediately striking they are non-the-less visually powerful; the patina
brass center. Flags of Valor believes that veterans deserve job opportunities and 'Made in America' matters. It had been put forth for many years that
Most reputable traders will happily take an item back if you arent happy with it. On this one you can see a little ko stamped on the top which is a sure sign the cross is real. 95.00 & WW2 German FAITHFUL SERVICE CROSS with enamel. Be the first to know of our latest discoveries and exclusive offers. Add the fact that you have an abundance
Original WWI German IRON CROSS 1ST CLASS, 1914. These markings can appear in a variety of places and numbers, or combinations of letters and numbers that indicate which supplier made the Cross. Browse articles, see items for sale around the world, or check out our worldwide events calendar. Similarly no standard can be placed to the dates in the
Is it of three sectioned / three piece construction? When the two halves were soldered the
IMA considers all antique guns offered on our website as non-firing, inoperable and/or inert. Chancellery of the German Reich. Excellent Plus. Iron Cross 1st. (Lots 979 to 1978). Welcome to WWII Forums! Crosses are often found unmarked and you must compare frames and cores to known examples to find the maker. Watch Lot + Calendar 2023-05-16 09:30:00 2023-05-17 23:59:59 Europe/London Lockdales: Coins, Medals, . This a nice example of a WWII Iron Cross First Class 1939, with a Magnetic core, flat design, and back clip attachment. and Firearms
German WW2 Iron Cross 1st Class, maker marked '26'. variation. Discussion in 'WWII General' started by C.Evans, Nov 23, 2002. 100% USA first class, being a breast badge, featured a plain silvered reverse with only the
usually held securely in place by the construction, although in some early Iron
pictured below. Another variation is the type of rear screw back plate. the technological advancements were carried over to the awards industry - where previous Iron Crosses had been
An early WW2 EK1 Vaulted Pinback by Meybauer with pin design reminiscent of their WW1 and inter-war versions. The Iron Cross 1939 was similar in shape to its predecessors,
By placing an order, the buyer represents that he/she is in compliance with the law and will utilize the items in a lawful manner. arm. The "screw-back" types, more scarcely
Most crosses will show evidence of filing all around
To see more on our policy in this regard. The silver plate has a lovely patina, and the black paint on the cross is very good, though worn off the swas and date. List of known 1939 Iron Cross Second class makers and marks This is a very nice 800 marked KCIC with 800 Silver Jump Loop with no ribbon present. smooth rim and crisp beading. The vendor states that this particular cross was one of a number of souvenirs brought home to the UK at the end of the war by a member of the Parachute Regiment. Use of the decoration was revived by William I for the Franco-Prussian War of 1870, recreated in 1914 for World War I, and last revived by Adolf Hitler on Sept. 1, 1939, the same day that German forces invaded Poland. When I was a teenager a well renowned dealer said to meAround 5 million Iron crosses were manufactured during WW2, and only 20 million of them are still around today!This of course makes no sense, but the meaning behind it does. Within these attributes, there is a spectrum of quality
of copper, zinc and nickel, although a few rare examples may be found made of non-plated zinc frames. The pin-and-catch mechanism can very often reveal clues as to who
A fine cross indeed, retaining about 97% of its black finish, with only a very small chip to note, and only modest tarnishing. . that characterise certain makers. look like veins going across the award. Germany. FOR AUCTION IS A WORLD WAR 2 GERMAN IRON CROSS SECOND CLASS WITH THE MAKER'S MARK # 25 STAMPED INTO THE RING. Service
We will cover the more expensive and rarer variants in a future article but for now here are the two types that are most commonly available. only a limited number of manufacturers switched to this method. These maker lists are always a work in progress and are the direct result of collectors bringing new information to the community. 1st Class made of cloth did exist during the Third Reich, but they post
Arbeitsgemeinschaft fr Heeresbedarf in der Graveur- und Ziselierinnung = 23, Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Hanauer Plakettenhersteller = 24, Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Graveur- Gold- und Silberschemiedeinnungen = 25, Anton Schenkls Nachf. 1939 EK1 Screwback by Zimmermann Typical rear of a 1939 EK1 sure back, this one marked L52 for Zimmermann. Here is an example from The Militaria Shop. solid iron, painted flat/semi-flat black and then baked to cure the enamel. Sadly, the interest in Iron Crosses and the symbolism of them makes them one of the most heavily manufactured reproduction items out there. German
Another detail you want to pay attention to is the thickness. Subject to approval,tens of thousands of people per week will see your items. However, many are sadly well constructed and are frequently sold as original. A. Werner & Sohne (See Manufacturers Marks), Heinrich Schneider (? Cl.,- W. Deumer $380. Both grades of Iron Cross were manufactured by a number of different companies. German
The Iron Cross, prized gallantry award and Allied war trophy. It was issued without a ribbon and it fastened directly to the tunic pocket of the recipient. The 1st and 2nd Class of the 1939 Iron Cross measured 44mm and were perfectly symmetrical, while the Knights Cross measured 48mm. Free Registration
Worn on a length or ribbon and a loop around the neck. Tick "+1" to bid one more increment if bidding is against you. To receive an Iron Cross 1st class, a soldier would have to repeat this feat multiple times. 9:30am BST. Service
However, it is ultimately the responsibility of the buyer to be in compliance of laws that govern their specific location. This battlefield relic Iron Cross (metal detected in Russia) shows clearly the three piece construction of iron core and two pieces of silver frame. War
Veteran. Makers of the 1914 EK2 - Kaiser's Bunker Rarer than the EK2 and becoming harder to source, especially the screw back variants. To muddy the waters further, there are actually some genuine war time one piece private purchase examples around as well, but a single piece has a higher chance of being a repro unless expert enough to spot the characteristics that may make a it a genuine piece. GERMAN FIRST WORLD WAR IRON CROSS 1ST & 2ND CLASS - Key Military The War Merit Cross without Swords 1st Class was a pin-backed medal worn on the pocket of the tunic. Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon. Dear collectors! Second try and slip a piece of paper between the actual cross and shell. We assume no liability associated with misuse of our products. Overall though, the medal didnt change too much between the two wars. - Can you slide a piece of paper between the core and the inner corners of the frame? An early WW2 EK1 Vaulted Pinback by Meybauer with pin design reminiscent of their WW1 and inter-war versions. Cross
variation is identical to the one described in the 2nd
Veteran Certified. Each maker had their own individual mark or code and that created fractional differences in their construction techniques. points of the cross were hand filed to be slightly curved and this fact,
I will be comparing the WW2 iron cross which is a fake to a WW1 iron cross which is real. The rim of
(courtesy William Stump) which shows the cloth cross in wear. We share items and posts of interest to collectors and enthusiasts. metal plate with only the attachment mechanism present. remained consistent. By leaving an Autobid our system will automatically bid on your behalf up to the amount you specify here during the live sale. symmetrical, while the Knights Cross measured 48mm. To be awarded after World War II to Germany's 12 greatest war heroes. The EKII ribbon issued during both wars could be indicated on a combat uniform by placing a strip of the ribbon through the second button hole down from the neck. *Zero live bidding commission is added on in addition to auctioneers fees where the "Flat Fee" registration option is available and chosen. Many thanks for your help! So some telltale signs to look for here are: - When you look at the silver frame side on can you see a join / line running down the side of the frame? WW2 German Iron Cross: Genuine or Fake? - sabremilitaria Once again, either types of fastener could carry the manufacturers own code but they are often found with no makers code at all. In this case '24'. an alloy
Wehrmacht-Awards.com
Hersteller (Manufacturer) Marking Maker Location In the case of two makers, C.F. method, known as the "Gablonzer Press", was introduced. This is somewhat subjective, and based on experience, but experts look for a texture of the metal and the paint of the iron core as veins and aged imperfections in the iron can bubble up or show rust, lines and imperfections with age. The actual iron cross in the middle is a separate piece from the outer frame. Militaria Today can take no responsibility for the shipping, sale or authenticity of the products shown in our posts. Merit Cross
10. was then placed on a finishing die, which cropped off all the excess around the shape of the
Original German WW2 Iron Cross 2nd Class with Maker's Mark are "flat", some have a slightly convex appearance. him the 2nd Class. It was designed to be displayed directly on the tunic by mounting it in the centre of the left upper pocket. fastening mechanism (a pin or "screwback", discussed in the 1st Class
Cross
maker. Orders, decorations, and medals of Nazi Germany - Wikipedia on the reverse of the upper arm was added to keep the Cross from rotating on its axis. Militaria Today can take no responsibility for the shipping, sale or authenticity of the products shown in our posts. . Marked, Shinkelform
Badges
Item Number: 66840. section describes the manufacturing process, which was virtually the
A genuine subject matter expert should be engaged and consulted before contemplating the purchase of a KC. with sloppy construction - it is simply a slightly rounder or softer look. Overall though, the medal didn't change too much between the two wars. WW2 Naval Seaplane Pilot Wings by Drago. "Variations"). German Iron Cross 1st & 2nd Class Maker Marks (EK1 & EK2) Related
Whilst it is the 'Iron' Cross, which will make most magnetic, not all genuine Iron Crosses are actually magnetic. The three sections of the Iron Cross can be seen in this picture. Both Japan and Spain produced Iron
This is a resource for all of us. Check out reviews, contact sellers, again a reputable seller will happily answer questions. Division and the Blue Legion with Iron Crosses. It shows signs of combat wear so it would look stunning on a combat uniform. antique feel. Gun magazine laws, concealed weapons laws, laws governing new made display guns, airsoft guns, blank fire guns, and other items vary greatly by nation, state and locality. These measure anything from 47 mm to 48 mm and it was believed that these were to be the new " Knights Cross " of Germany's . On this real WW1 cross you can see the fine details on the leaves and crown. 575,000 Iron Cross 1st Class were awarded during World War II. Some Swastikas were high and were level with the rim, while others were
From WW1 or WW2 veterans of the allied forces all wanted to take home this iconic medal and as such, the fascination has been passed onto us as collectors. Thin Blue Line flags, thin red line flags, subdued flags. EK1 WW1 This is a sure sign of a fake. Beware also of 'forum heroes' who enjoy deriding items owned by others, or shooting down items unjustly, and they can occasionally be guilty of pronouncing as fakes genuine items that are of lesser known variants. Below you will find a few makers lists of different medals from both wars. We share items and posts of interest to collectors and enthusiasts. Prsidialkanzlei des Fheres must be strictly adhered to. Our price is lower than the manufacturer's "minimum advertised price." An Iron Cross separated
Jump Section
Having said that, at least one maker of high quality reproductions has made magnetic reproductions in the past, but these don't show up too frequently thankfully. This a nice example of a WWII Iron Cross First Class 1939, with a Magnetic core, flat design, and back clip attachment. German Iron Crosses - Alans Militaria This indicates that two sections of the frame have been joined over the top of the iron core. Pay attention to detail. relation to the rim since these also range a few millimeters up or down, although they should never be touching the
do not yield to finger
The swastika on the example you gave was thicker and the date was also different. Leutnant Bernd Heukemes,
As such, it is always worth either speaking to someone who knows more on the subject, take advice or at the least, buy from a trusted source. View G6508 Add to Compare. Militaria
Wehrmacht-Awards.com
As the swastika was
crosses have developed an aged look - the collectors' patina. wear. MILITARIA COLLECTING (Eisernes Kreuz I Klasse) Brought Home By A U.S. We also recommend purchasing through a credit card or PayPal goods and services. plated iron for the center of the Iron Cross First Class. The iron core was
Rings are hooked to the Knights Cross, the ribbons are
One can only assume that the firms that were out of
Two methods were employed for manufacturing during the
The manufacturers marking, 25, is stamped on the ribbon suspension ring. Though unmarked, this German WW2 EKI bears all of the hallmarks of the K&Q maker, and is a stunning example retaining 90% of its black finish, with a nice patina around the edges and absolutely no rust or corrosion. If you have anymore information, please feel free to get in touch. Third Reich Medals - Richmond Military Antiques purchased screw-back system (discussed below in
We directly support the repository at WW2.ORG, and several other worthwhile projects that add to the historical record. It was issued without a ribbon and it fastened directly to the tunic pocket of the recipient. Everything for sale on ima-usa.com is completely legal to own, trade, transport and sell within the United States of America. This protects you in case the item never arrives or the item is not as described. by a soldier, or one that was perhaps received, worn, and shows its age. rim. Discussion
The First Class 1939 Iron Cross came in a variety of styles with a flat or convex blackened iron or alloy body. Iron Cross 1st Class had the same dimensions and
Originally it would have been awarded in a box however most we see these days are missing the box. around it. kills. (1). The fastening mode could
the tunic. The outer rim of
Rare picture
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halves together. the Iron Cross. Two examples of
found and thus worth more to the collector, had a protruding threaded shaft that was placed through
This list can become very handy. Cased Order of the German Eagle Order, 5th Class by Wernstein. Joined: Apr 8, 2010 Messages: 1 . war. The smooth rear fixing plate isone the more common variations. cross is a rare variation of this class. Armed Forces & Ustasha Badges, Awards, Other, Customs Service Awards & Insignia & Other, Groups & Single Decorations For Gallantry, Royal Air Force Long Service & Good Conduct Medal, Groups & Single Victorian Campaign Medals (1837-1901), Groups & Single Campaign Medals (1902-Present), Colonial Auxiliary Forces Medals & Decorations, Groups & Single Campaign Medals 1902-present, Groups & Single Victorian Campaign Medals 1837-1901, Groups & Single Decorations for Gallantry, The Eisernes Kreuz: A Collection of Decorations from 1813 to 1957, J0621: Jewellery, Coins, Watches & Antiquities, A Gentleman's Collection; A Comprehensive Selection of 20th Century American Gallantry & Casualty Awards, A Fine Collection of American Society & Association Membership Badges, eMedals Presents a Gentleman's Collection; Germany 1933-1945, The F.W. The Iron Cross 1st Class had the same dimensions and identical obverse features as the 2nd Class (44mm by 44mm).