An original WWII German Iron Cross 1st Class (1939) manufactured by Klein & Quenzer A.G., Idar-Oberstein (Maker 65), complete with an attractive original blue leatherette presentation case. Featuring the classic three-piece construction, magnetic iron core, original pin assembly and untouched wartime patina, this is a desirable cased example from one of Germany’s best-known Iron Cross manufacturers.
€ 625
An original Second World War German Iron Cross 1st Class (Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse) complete with its original period presentation case. The cross features the classic three-piece construction with black magnetic iron core and silvered frame, displaying the swastika to the centre and the date 1939 to the lower arm.
The reverse retains its original pin, hinge and catch assembly, with the pin clearly maker marked “65”, identifying manufacture by Klein & Quenzer A.G. of Idar-Oberstein. Klein & Quenzer was one of the principal manufacturers of Iron Crosses during the Second World War and is well regarded amongst collectors for producing high-quality awards. The cross displays an attractive untouched patina, with the iron core retaining much of its original black finish alongside honest age-related wear.
The award is housed in an original period blue leatherette presentation case, an attractive and less commonly encountered variation when compared to the more familiar black examples. The case features the silver Iron Cross emblem to the lid, white satin-lined interior and fitted velvet-style insert. The exterior shows only light handling wear, while the interior exhibits honest age-related marks from long-term storage, all consistent with an original wartime case.
Instituted by Adolf Hitler on 1 September 1939, the Iron Cross 1st Class was awarded only after the recipient had first received the Iron Cross 2nd Class and subsequently distinguished themselves through further acts of bravery in combat or exceptional military leadership. Worn as a pin-back decoration on the left breast pocket, it became one of the most recognisable German military awards of the Second World War.
An excellent original cased example by Klein & Quenzer (Maker 65), complete with an attractive period blue presentation case, making it an ideal addition to any collection of German militaria or Second World War decorations.
The Iron Cross (Eisernes Kreuz) was first established by King Frederick William III of Prussia in 1813 during the Napoleonic Wars. It was subsequently reissued in 1870, 1914, and finally in 1939, when Adolf Hitler reinstated the decoration for service during the Second World War.
The Iron Cross 1st Class recognised repeated acts of bravery, distinguished leadership or continued exceptional service in combat. Eligibility required the prior award of the Iron Cross 2nd Class, making the 1st Class a significant progression within Germany’s wartime honours system. It was awarded across all branches of the Heer, Kriegsmarine, Luftwaffe and Waffen-SS, and remains one of the most recognisable military decorations of the twentieth century.
Klein & Quenzer A.G., located in Idar-Oberstein, was among the largest wartime producers of German military decorations. Their maker code 65 is one of the best-known and most widely collected Iron Cross maker marks. Original cased examples remain highly sought after, particularly when accompanied by an attractive period presentation case such as this example.
Very good original condition with an attractive untouched patina throughout. The magnetic iron core retains much of its original finish, while the silvered frame displays honest age-related wear. The reverse retains its original pin, hinge and catch assembly, with the pin maker marked “65” for Klein & Quenzer A.G., Idar-Oberstein. The original blue leatherette presentation case remains complete with working catch, showing light exterior wear and age-related marks to the interior lining consistent with long-term storage. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the description.
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