An original 1939 Spange (Clasp) to the Iron Cross Second Class, awarded to recipients of the 1914 Iron Cross Second Class who again distinguished themselves in combat during the opening campaigns of the Second World War.
This finely detailed example features the national eagle with outstretched wings clutching a wreath enclosing the swastika, mounted above the bold “1939” date bar. Manufactured in die-struck tombak, the clasp retains an attractive aged finish and crisp detailing throughout, making it an excellent collector’s example of one of Germany’s most iconic wartime decorations.
The reverse retains both original ribbon attachment prongs, allowing the clasp to be correctly mounted onto the ribbon of a 1914 Iron Cross Second Class.
Following the reintroduction of the Iron Cross by Adolf Hitler on 1 September 1939, veterans who had already received the 1914 Iron Cross Second Class were not awarded a second cross. Instead, they received the 1939 Spange, which was worn on the ribbon of their original 1914 decoration.
This clasp symbolised a second award of the Iron Cross and recognised continued bravery or distinguished military leadership during the Second World War. Fewer were awarded than standard 1939 Iron Crosses, making original examples highly desirable among collectors of German military awards.
This original wartime example is die-struck with exceptional attention to detail.
Features include:
Fine national eagle with sharply defined feathering
Oakleaf wreath enclosing the swastika
Separate 1939 date bar
Original ribbon mounting prongs
Correct wartime tombak construction
Original period finish with attractive patina
The reverse remains untouched, retaining the correct integral fixing prongs used to secure the clasp to the ribbon of a 1914 Iron Cross Second Class.
Presented in very good original condition, the clasp retains crisp definition across the eagle, wreath and date bar. The original finish has developed an attractive age-related patina consistent with careful preservation.
Both original attachment prongs remain intact and undamaged, with no evidence of repair or restoration. The clasp displays honest period wear while maintaining outstanding display appeal.
The 1939 Iron Cross Second Class Spange represents one of the most historically significant German military awards of the Second World War. It commemorated a second act of bravery by veterans already decorated during the First World War, linking two generations of military service.
Original examples with intact attachment prongs and untouched finishes continue to be highly sought after by collectors of Iron Crosses, German combat awards and Third Reich militaria.
Explore related listings: Iron Crosses.
