Original Item. Only One Available. This is a very nice German WWII 1939 Iron Cross 1st Class, Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse, maker marked with LDO number L/54 for Schauerte & Höhfeld of Lüdenscheid.

The cross is of the familiar multi-piece construction, with a blackened iron core surrounded by the silver-colored frame and its finely ribbed inner border. The obverse bears the raised swas. at center and 1939 on the lower arm, denoting the 1939 reinstitution of the Iron Cross. Detail remains quite strong throughout, particularly along the beaded frame and central design.

The condition is very attractive and appropriately aged. The blackened core retains a substantial amount of its dark finish, with scattered wear visible in the recessed areas and around the edges of the core. The frame has developed an appealing dark silver-gray patina, with brighter highlights remaining along the raised edges and beading.

The reverse is fitted with the correct vertical pinback arrangement, consisting of a barrel-style hinge at the upper arm, long pin, and catch toward the lower arm. All components are present. The reverse shows wear, particularly around the pin assembly, along with oxidation and surface discoloration.

The Iron Cross was reinstituted on September 1, 1939, continuing a German military decoration tradition first established in Prussia in 1813. The 1st Class was designed as a breast decoration and was worn directly on the uniform rather than suspended from a ribbon. Award of the higher class normally followed receipt of the Iron Cross 2nd Class and recognized continued or particularly notable military merit in a combat setting.

The LDO, (Leistungs Gemeinschaft der Deutscher Ordenshersteller - Administration of German orders Manufacturers), was a self-governing organization formed in 1941 which regulated the manufacturing of all German awards. The firm Schauerte & Höhfeld of Lüdenscheid of was partially licensed in the organization, entry number 54.