Screwback - 1st Class Iron Cross by L59

German WWII > Awards and Medals > Iron Cross Series > 1st Class Iron Cross

Schraube - Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse by L59 - Alois Rettenmaier of GmbH & Co. KG. The 1st Class Iron Cross was awarded to those who had received the 2nd class iron cross and preformed 3-5 acts 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 frame and back plate are constructed out of a nickel-silver base that has been silver washed. 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 full back reverse features a top anti-rotation spike, centrally soldered on female screw piece and a round male screw device. The paint is in great condition remaining 99%+ intact and the frame has beautiful patina to it! The cross measures 1 ¾ inches wide and tall. I purchased this piece form the veteran’s family and when I got it is was apart. I super glued it back together and it is slightly off. Also the screw piece device is slightly stripped.