A very nice Nazi German 3rd Reich WW2 (world war 2) period 1st class iron cross, 3 piece construction with the locket style silver beaded frame & central iron core. The German swastika prominent to the centre of the cross & the date 1939 below…being the date Adolf Hitler re instituted the award in preparation for war!

It was first instituted in 1813 by King Frederick William 3rd of Prussia during the war with the French Empire & Napoleon. It is awarded in various grades & to all ranks of the wehrmacht, Kriegsmarine & lufftwaffe. (army, navy & air force), for acts of bravery, heroism & leadership in wartime ! It is the German’s primary recognition award for valor & is probably the most widely recognized medal in the world. 

This 1st class example Iron Cross (Eisernes Kreuz) has a nice patina to the black iron core centre, the silver locket frame also in good condition for its age. The clasp assembly in good working order to the rear with the flared pin. Uncleaned & original, a nice 1st class example 1939 Iron Cross to add to a collection!