Grand Cross of the Iron Cross (in onyx and platinum)
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 01.GTR.0101.101.01.000
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(Großkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes 1939). Instituted 1 September 1939 by A.H. (1939-1945 Issue). This is an extremely rare and well-preserved example of a 1939 Grand Cross of the Iron Cross, presenting as a Cross Pattée constructed of a black onyx core within a ribbed platinum frame. The obverse bears a central mobile swastika, constructed of a separate piece of black onyx fastened to the main body of the core, with an engraved reinstitution date of “1939” on the lower arm. The reverse is plain with the exception of an engraved initial institution date of “1813” on the lower arm. Engraved on the platinum frame of the reverse upper arm is a platinum mark of “950” along with the ornately-engraved crown logo and initials of Deutsche Goldschmiedekunst-Werkstätten, Berlin. Set into the top arm is a loop which bears an oval suspension ring, similarly engraved with a platinum mark of “950”. Measuring 62.7 mm (w) x 62.4 mm (h) and weighing 67.5 grams. The cross is in a near mint condition and is accompanied by an authentication certificate issued by Dietrich Maerz, dated 27 October 2017.
The Iron Cross was originally founded in 1813, and was considered Germany’s highest military decoration. On September 1st, 1939, Adolf Hitler renewed the Order of the Iron Cross and instituted the decoration in four grades, II Class Iron Cross, I Class Iron Cross, Knight’s Cross and Grand Cross.
The 1939 Grand Cross was to be conferred upon senior field commanders whose leadership dramatically influenced the outcome of a major battle or campaign. It was conferred only once, upon Hermann Göring on July 19th, 1940, for the participation of the Luftwaffe in the campaigns in France and the Low Countries.
Göring’s original Grand Cross was destroyed and he replaced it with one composed of black onyx and platinum. The frame was crafted by Professor H. Zeitner, a goldsmith in Berlin.
The location of Göring’s Grand Cross is unknown.
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