Original German Iron Cross 2nd Class 1939 Spange with WW1 Ribbon
SKU: 680
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Unmarked
Manufacturer Year: 1939
Size / Dimensions: Approximately 30 mm
Materials / Construction: Silvered metal clasp on original ribbon
Condition: Very Good
Price: $350.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: EM
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This Original German Iron Cross 2nd Class 1939 Spange with WWI 1914 Ribbon, presented in excellent overall condition. This highly collectible award represents a Second Award of the Iron Cross to a veteran who had previously received the 1914 Iron Cross during the First World War and was again recognized for bravery or leadership during the Second World War.
When a WWI Iron Cross recipient earned the decoration again in WWII, regulations required the soldier to wear the 1939 Iron Cross Second Class Spange (clasp) mounted on the ribbon of the original 1914 Iron Cross, rather than receiving another full medal. This striking silvered clasp features the national eagle clutching a swastika above the date “1939”, symbolizing the renewed award of the prestigious decoration.
The clasp is mounted on an original black, white, and red 1914 Iron Cross ribbon, forming a historically significant combination that represents service across both world wars.
Features
- Award: Iron Cross 2nd Class 1939 Spange (Repeat Award Clasp)
- Ribbon: Original WWI 1914 Iron Cross ribbon
- Material: Silvered metal clasp on original ribbon
- Design: German eagle over swastika above the date “1939”
- Attachment: Traditional ribbon mounting for wear in the buttonhole or ribbon bar
- Era: Third Reich, WWII period
- Condition: Excellent overall condition with strong details and attractive age patina
Historical Background
The Iron Cross (Eisernes Kreuz) was originally established by King Friedrich Wilhelm III of Prussia in 1813 during the Napoleonic Wars. It was later reauthorized in 1870, 1914, and again in 1939 by Adolf Hitler at the beginning of World War II.
Recipients who had already been awarded the 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class and later distinguished themselves again during WWII were not issued another cross. Instead, they were presented with the 1939 Spange (clasp), which was worn on the original 1914 ribbon. This device symbolized a second award of the Iron Cross, highlighting the soldier’s continued bravery across two major conflicts.
Because these awards were issued only to veterans who had served in both World War I and World War II, original examples represent a unique and historically significant category of German military decorations.
Dimensions
- Spange Width: Approximately 30 mm
- Ribbon Width: Approximately 30 mm
Collector Notes
Original 1939 Iron Cross Spangen with WWI ribbons are highly sought after by collectors due to their direct connection to soldiers who served in both world wars. Authentic examples display crisp detailing in the eagle and date, along with proper aging and wear consistent with wartime manufacture.
This example would make an excellent addition to any advanced WWII German militaria collection, medal display, or historical exhibit.
Condition: Excellent original condition with strong details and clean ribbon. A desirable and historically meaningful German award representing service in both world wars.
Bottom of Form
