Original WWII German Iron Cross 2nd Class 1939 – Magnetic Core, with Ribbon

Description

Iron Cross 2nd Class 1939: Overview

An Iron Cross 2nd Class of the 1939 pattern (Eisernes Kreuz II. Klasse), with magnetic iron core and intact suspension ring, offered with its ribbon. It shows a natural, untouched patina and good overall condition.

Historical Context

The Iron Cross was first instituted in Prussia in 1813 and was reintroduced in 1939 at the outbreak of the Second World War. The 2nd Class was awarded for bravery in combat and for military merit, and it was by far the most widely awarded grade.

The 1939 pattern keeps the traditional construction: an iron core held within a silvered frame, with the swastika at the centre and the date 1939 on the lower arm of the obverse, and the date 1813 on the reverse. It was worn from a black, white and red ribbon.

Iron Cross 2nd Class 1939: Description

• Type: Iron Cross 2nd Class, 1939 pattern
• Construction: magnetic iron core within a frame; suspension ring intact
• Ribbon: included
• Maker mark: none, so no maker attribution is made
• Inventory code: INS50

Condition

Good overall condition with natural patina. Please review the photographs, which form part of the description, for wear to the frame finish and the condition of the core paint.

Provenance

No further provenance is recorded.

Authenticity

Assessed as an original piece on the basis of construction, magnetic core, suspension ring and overall finish. As explained in my Iron Cross guide, no single feature is conclusive on its own; the assessment rests on the combination of features. Independent examination is available on request.

Further Reading

Before buying an Iron Cross, read my Complete Collector’s Guide to the Iron Cross 1939, which covers construction, makers, condition and reproductions.

For historical background, see Deutsches Historisches Museum: “Ehrenzeichen”, on the history of German decorations.

Historical Responsibility Notice: this item is offered as a historical artefact for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology.