An original wartime Luftwaffe Cloth German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold), intended for wear on the lower right breast pocket of the Luftwaffe field blouse and flight uniform. This is the desirable embroidered cloth pattern, introduced as a practical alternative to the heavy metal award while retaining the same prestigious appearance.
€ 1.200
1 in stock
An original wartime Luftwaffe Cloth German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold), intended for wear on the lower right breast pocket of the Luftwaffe field blouse and flight uniform. This is the desirable embroidered cloth pattern, introduced as a practical alternative to the heavy metal award while retaining the same prestigious appearance.
The award displays the distinctive eight-pointed star expertly embroidered in alternating silver and grey rayon thread on a Luftwaffe blue-grey wool backing. The centre features a black embroidered swastika on an ivory-coloured field, enclosed by a vivid red embroidered border and a separately applied gilt-coloured laurel wreath. The fine quality of the embroidery and layered construction is entirely consistent with original wartime manufacture.
The reverse retains its original black paper backing, now showing the expected deterioration associated with age and wartime adhesives. Remnants of the manufacturer’s ink stamp remain visible beneath the backing paper, further supporting its originality. The untouched reverse is typical of genuine examples that have remained unaltered since the war.
Instituted on 28 September 1941, the German Cross in Gold was awarded for repeated acts of exceptional bravery or outstanding military leadership after the recipient had already been awarded the Iron Cross First Class but before qualification for the Knight’s Cross. The embroidered cloth version was authorised primarily for combat wear, allowing decorated personnel to wear the prestigious award without the weight and inconvenience of the metal pin-back version.
The Luftwaffe cloth breast insignia is considerably scarcer than many collectors realise and remains highly sought after due to its direct association with decorated combat aircrew, flak personnel, Fallschirmjäger, and ground combat units. This example displays excellent period character with attractive ageing to the wreath, sharp embroidery and honest wear, making it an outstanding addition to any advanced collection of original Third Reich awards.
Condition: Excellent overall. The embroidered face remains crisp with strong colour contrast and minimal wear. The original paper reverse backing shows expected age-related deterioration, with traces of the maker’s ink stamp still visible, confirming its untouched wartime construction.
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