Cased German WWII 1939 Iron Cross 1st Class-This is just choice! The black center core retains 100% of its original finish, with the frame remaining shiny and bright. The pin is marked “65” indicating production by Klein & Quenzer of Idar-Oberstein. The pin functions as intended. This is complete in black leatherette fitted case with flat top showing facsimile of badge. There is some slight scuffing to the silver facsimile, but this is very minor. The interior is lined in white (top) and beige (bottom) flocking. There is a portion of EK2 ribbon tucked into the top part of the case. The lock on the case works perfectly. This is a choice example!
History: On March 10th, 1813, Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm III established the Iron Cross as a temporary award for bestowal during times of war. Originally the Iron Cross was introduced in three grades with a Grand Cross intended for award to Senior Commanders for successfully leading troops in combat and the First and Second classes for award to all ranks for bravery or merit in action. The Iron Crosses were reinstituted by King Wilhelm I on July 19th, 1870, for award during the Franco-Prussian War and again on August 5th, 1914, by King Wilhelm II for award during WWI. On September 1st, 1939, Hitler once more reinstituted the Iron Cross series of awards in the First and Second Classes and established the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross. The first-class medal was for award to personnel who performed three to five acts of bravery in combat and had already been awarded the Iron Cross second class.