1st Class Iron Cross by 65

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

A Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse 1939 im Etui by 65 - Klein & Quenzer A.G. of Idar-Oberstein. 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. Approx 40% of the paint remains, the core has oxidation and wear. The frame and back plate are constructed out of a nickel-silver base that has been silver washed. 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 a soldered on block hinge, soldered on round wire catch and coke bottle pin that is PKZ marked “65”. An Veteran obtained example! The cross measures approximately 1 ¾ inches wide and tall.