Schinkel - 2nd Class Iron Cross by P. Meybauer

German WWII > Awards and Medals > Iron Cross Series > 2nd Class Iron Cross

This Schinkelversion Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse is attributed to Paul Meybauer of Berlin. When Hitler reinstituted the 2nd Class Iron Cross, on September 1st 1939, manufacturers jumped at the opportunity of using the most cost effective solution and used their left over stock of Imperial Iron Cross 1914 frames. Schinkel versions are the earliest Iron crosses and are named after the original designer Karl Friedrich Schinkel, 1813. The 2nd Class Iron Cross was awarded for an act of bravery in the face of the enemy, or actions that were clearly above and beyond the call of duty. It is a multi-piece, die struck construction that has been soldered together. The single piece core is constructed out of an iron metal base that has been black enamel painted. The two piece frame is constructed out of a nickel silver base that has been silver washed and polished. A final protectant lacquer was applied over the entire award. The obverse features; a pattée style cross that has a centrally placed embossed mobile swastika and "1939" to the lower arm, which is all on a black base and surrounded by a silvered ribbed/beaded row and a flat outlying border. The reverse features that same black base with a raised "1813" to the lower arm and has that same ribbed and flat outlying boarder. To the top is a soldered on loop and ring which holds approximately 3 inches of red, white and black rayon ribbon. The paint is very bubbly and 90%+ intact. The border retains a nice silver finish. The cross measures approximately 1 11/16 inches wide and tall. A rarer variation!