Eisernes Kreuz, Real?

**Steven2001** · 03-10-2012, 06:33 PM

Hi all,

I just bought an Iron Cross at a store, and somehow I wonder if it is real.
I did the magnetic test, and it worked.
I can see it is made up in three parts, as it should be.

However the centre cross in not black but in Iron collor? Does this matter?
And do you know any other ways how to see if it is authentic?
Many thanks

**Espenlaub Militaria** · 03-10-2012 06:33 PM

We also buy and trade your items and full collections!

**rbminis** · 03-10-2012, 06:37 PM

Hello and welcome to this forum.

You will most likely have to post photos so that forum members that are quite knowledgeable in this field will be able to help you. That being said, most EK's have a steel core and the paint wore off of many of them. This would explain why the swastika could be iron in color. Also, check the ribbon ring for any maker's marks, stamps.
Hope this helps,
Ralph.

**Steven2001** · 03-10-2012, 06:48 PM

**Woolgar** · 03-10-2012, 06:56 PM

Hi Steven, a warm welcome to the forum

Your cross looks to be a good original.

If you can send clearer pics we may be able to identify the maker.

As Ralph says, check the ribbon ring for a makers number

Nick

**Steven2001** · 03-10-2012, 06:59 PM

Thanks for the replies

I try to make a clearer pic.
I have just start to collect authentic ww2 artifacts, Do you have some additional information about the Iron cross? I know it is 2nd class but what exactly does that mean?

Thanks

**rbminis** · 03-10-2012, 06:59 PM

If possible, clearer photos would help. It looks to be an authentic EK, but as they say, "the devil is in the details".
Also, I have asked a moderator to move this thread to the EK section.
Ralph.

**CARL** · 03-10-2012, 07:01 PM

Looks a big frame...possible '24'...?

**rbminis** · 03-10-2012, 07:02 PM

by Steven2001

Thanks for the replies

I try to make a clearer pic.
I have just start to collect authentic ww2 artifacts, Do you have some additional information about the Iron cross? I know it is 2nd class but what exactly does that mean?

Thanks

EK 1st class would have either a screw back attachment or a pin back, EK 2nd class, only the ribbon was actually normally worn on the uniform. Different criteria for earning both.
Ralph.