2nd Class Iron Cross in Issue Packet by R. Wagner & Lange

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

An Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse 1939 mit der Papiertüte by Rudolf Wachtler & Lange of Mittweida. 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 border. To the top is a half round extension which allows for a larger base to hold the soldered on loop and ring. The ring is not maker marked but the EK2 is typical Rudolf Wachtler & Lange construction. The award is mint and in unissued condition. The cross measures approximately 1 ¾ inches wide and tall. Accompanying the award is 8 inches of red, white and black rayon ribbon. The award and ribbon come housed in its appropriate issue packet. This packet is likely also Rudolf Wachtler & Lange’s as they maker marked the reverse top flap (which is not there): Click Here to see another example. The blue paper packet has been folded and glued together. The obverse of the packet reads, in Gothic style black ink: “Eisernes Kreuz II. Klasse 1939”. The top ¼ has been ripped off and the base has tape on it. It measures 3 inches wide by 3 3/4 inches tall packet. A mint ribbon and EK2!