WW2 Original German Third Reich Iron Cross 1st Class by Paul Meyhauer
SKU: 669
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Paul Meyhauer
Manufacturer Year: 1939
Size / Dimensions: 43.99 mm (w) x 44.22 mm (h).
Materials / Construction: Iron & Silver
Condition: Excellent
Price: $395.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: EM150
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This is an original WW2 German Iron Cross 1st Class (Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse) 1939 pattern, manufactured by the prestigious Berlin firm Paul Meybauer, one of the most respected medal producers of the Third Reich period. Meybauer was officially contracted to produce high-quality state awards and is widely known among collectors for his finely crafted crosses.
The Iron Cross 1st Class was awarded for acts of bravery in combat or outstanding military leadership beyond that required for the Iron Cross 2nd Class. Unlike the 2nd Class, the 1st Class was a pin-back award worn directly on the left breast pocket of the field tunic.
Specifications & Details:
- Model: 1939 Iron Cross 1st Class
- Maker: Paul Meybauer, Berlin
- LDO Code: Commonly associated with L/13
- Construction: Three-piece construction with magnetic iron core
- Core Finish: Original black painted magnetic center
- Frame: Silvered or nickel-silver frame with crisp beading
- Reverse: Vertical pin-back assembly with functional hinge and catch
- Condition: Excellent
Condition Description:
This cross remains in excellent condition, retaining:
- Strong, even black finish to the magnetic core
- Sharp swastika and 1939 date detail
- Crisp, well-defined beaded border
- Clean reverse with intact, fully functional pin assembly
- Honest age patina consistent with originality
No significant chipping, repairs, or structural issues are noted. The frame shows attractive toning with minimal wear, further enhancing its display appeal.
Historical Context
The 1939 Iron Cross was reinstituted by Adolf Hitler on September 1, 1939, at the outbreak of World War II. The Iron Cross 1st Class was awarded to soldiers of all branches—Heer, Kriegsmarine, Luftwaffe, and Waffen-SS—following prior receipt of the 2nd Class.
Maker-marked examples by Paul Meybauer are highly sought after due to:
- Known quality control
- Correct wartime materials
- Desirable LDO-marked provenance
Collector Appeal
An original Meybauer-produced Iron Cross 1st Class represents:
- A textbook example of a wartime German combat award
- A desirable maker for advanced collectors
- A premium display piece with excellent eye appeal
A strong addition to any serious WWII German militaria collection.
