Original Item: Only One Available. This is a lovely original German WWII Balkenkreuz (Beam Cross) identification flag used for Panzer tanks and other vehicles. It shows light to moderate wear and measures approximately 37" x 76" inches. The flag is constructed of cotton and has four brass plated steel grommets (one in each corner), which were used to secure the flag to the back of the vehicle, facing the sky in order to prevent friendly fire from German aircraft. The flag is a multi-piece construction with a Balkenkreuz (beam cross) dyed onto a white background stitched onto the red base.

Condition is very good, with the expected age toning on the white areas from storage, as well as wrinkles from being folded up for decades. There are however also small stains, holes, and tears, indicating that this example was most likely actually used in the field! We usually get these looking like they were kept in a depot for years, but this one was really out there! The red is still vibrant, and the black printed insignia still crisp. The larger size would suggest a larger vehicle, possibly a tank! Ready to display!

The Balkenkreuz (lit. "beam cross" or "bar cross") is a straight-armed cross that was first introduced in 1916-18 and later became the emblem of the Wehrmacht (German Armed Forces) and its branches from 1935 until the end of World War II. It was used by the Heer (Army), Luftwaffe (Air Force), and Kriegsmarine (Navy).