2nd Class Iron Cross by Walter & Henlein of Gablonz

Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse. The 2nd Class Iron Cross was awarded for an act of bravery in the face of the enemy or actions that were clearly above and beyond the call of duty. It is a multi-piece, die-struck construction that has been soldered together. The single-piece core is constructed from an iron metal base that has been painted with black enamel. The two-piece frame is constructed out of a nickel silver base that has been silver washed and polished. A final protective lacquer was applied over the entire award. The obverse features a pattée style cross with a centrally placed embossed mobile swastika and “1939” to the lower arm, which is all on a black base and surrounded by a silvered ribbed/beaded row and a flat outlying border. The reverse features the same black base with a raised “1813” to the lower arm and has the same ribbed and flat outlying border. To the top is a soldered-on loop and a maker-unmarked tombac ring. Accompanying the award is 8 inches of soiled red, white, and black rayon ribbon. The paint is in great condition, and the border has wonderfully patinated with time. The cross measures 1 ¾ inches wide and tall.