An original WWII German Iron Cross 1st Class (1939) by Rudolf Souval, Wien (L/59), complete with its original presentation case. Featuring the classic magnetic iron core, original pin assembly and attractive wartime patina, this is an excellent collector-grade example of one of Germany’s most iconic Second World War combat awards.
€ 625
An original Second World War German Iron Cross 1st Class (Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse) complete with its original black leatherette presentation case. The cross features the classic black magnetic iron core with silvered frame, bearing the swastika to the centre and the date 1939 to the lower arm.
The reverse retains its original pin, hinge and catch assembly and is LDO marked “L/59”, identifying manufacture by Alois Rettenmaier of Schwäbisch Gmünd, an authorised member of the Leistungsgemeinschaft Deutscher Ordenshersteller (LDO). Rettenmaier produced high-quality privately purchased Iron Crosses during the Second World War and is regarded as one of the recognised LDO manufacturers. The cross displays an attractive age-related patina, with the magnetic iron core retaining much of its original black finish and honest wear consistent with wartime manufacture and age.
The accompanying presentation case features the black pebbled leatherette exterior with silver Iron Cross emblem to the lid, cream satin-lined interior and velvet-style fitted base. The case remains in good original condition, showing only light signs of age and storage, making it an excellent period accompaniment to the award.
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 combat awards of the Second World War.
An excellent original cased example by Alois Rettenmaier (L/59), 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 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.
LDO-marked examples, such as this L/59 cross by Alois Rettenmaier, were privately purchased by recipients as high-quality replacement or spare pieces, often acquired through military outfitters rather than issued directly through military supply channels. These maker-marked examples are highly collectable today due to their identifiable provenance and excellent manufacturing standards.
Very good original condition with an attractive aged patina throughout. The black 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 and is clearly LDO marked “L/59” for Alois Rettenmaier, Schwäbisch Gmünd. The original presentation case is complete, with only light age-related wear and some minor staining 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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