Iron Cross 2nd Class

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

A nice Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse! 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 pattee 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. Included is 11 inches of red, white and black rayon ribbon. The paint is in good condition with wear to the edges of the swas. The cross measures approximately 1 ¾ inches wide and tall. There is some oxidation to the obverse I have not tried to remove.