2nd Class Iron Cross by 65 with Issue Packet

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

Matching - Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse 1939 mit der Papiertüte by 65 - Klein & Quenzer A.G. of Idar-Oberstein. Instituted September 1, 1939, 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 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 “65” maker marked ring. The cross measures 1 11/16 inches wide and tall. Accompanying the award is 11 1/4 inches of unissued red, white and black rayon ribbon as well as a piece of tissue paper. The award and ribbon come with its original blue paper packet. The obverse of the packet reads, in black gothic style ink: “Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse 1939” (Iron Cross 2. Class 1939). The reverse is maker marked: “Klein & Quenzer A.G. Idar-Oberstein” in the gothic style, surrounded by a rectangular border. The packet is falling apart. The packet measures 4 1/16 inches wide by 5 1/16 inches tall. The iconic German award...