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 39" x 78" 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 body of the flag, which is also made from two pieces of fabric.

Condition is very good, and we see little evidence that this flag was ever used in the field, however it does look to have some staining from storage, particularly along the central seam and edges. It looks to have been folded up for some time, and then got stained on the edge areas. However, the red is still vibrant, and the black printed insignia still crisp. The larger size would suggest it was intended for 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).