online Militaria dealer - Antique-Militaria [UK]
magnify icon Search militaria Medals - Arms - Militaria
Home icon Antique Militaria Home for the SEs and the curious Site map People shaking hands icon Historic comments
Title German Cross in gold
Nationality German
Period c 1941-45
Sold

'This breast star was introduced on 28 September 1941 and was to recognise bravery of the fighting forces above that which was required for the bestowal of the Iron Cross 1st Class, but not up to that required for the award of the Knight's Cross...' (source Combat Medals of the Third Reich by Christopher Ailsby, which has more details).

Approximately 30,000 of these crosses were awarded to the Wehrmacht, of which the army and the Waffen SS received 17,000 and the Luftwaffe and navy approximately 13,000.

The maker mark is 134 (cast into the back plate) for Otto Klein. This was the only maker who marked his crosses in this manner. Most of the other pieces were marked with a punch on the pin.

The front (obverse) is in good condition, the black enamel being perfect. However, there has been a high quality jeweller's repair, using lead solder, to the reverse fitting of the hinge end of the pin, and there has been some minor damage to the rivet next to the hinge.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Militaria : Medals : Third Reich : Wehrmacht]

testimonials

[From a vendor, rather than a buyer]

I'm delighted that you are happy with the badge and I hope you can sell it to someone who will value owning it.

I tried to sell it on eBay but they won't accept Nazi items. I then contacted several dealers via a Google search who mostly offered me £40-£50 after some haggling. Most of the other dealers tried to conceal its true value in their replies and also lacked manners which doesn't inspire confidence.

Ultimately it's about trust. I should think that most prospective sellers have done their own research and therefore know roughly what their item is worth. You were the only dealer who had the integrity to concede that my valuation was approximately correct and I respect your comment that you can't offer this as you need to make a profit. Your honest approach is greatly appreciated and I felt comfortable taking the risk in sending it to you.

Thank you for a smooth transaction

C D, UK, 01.07.2015

Many thanks, badge was awaiting my return today. Pleasure dealing with you again. I'll be back again.

P B, UK, 20.02.2008

more...